We are going on holiday to Phuket Thailand with all troubles there any suggestions on where to go instead?

The troubles are political and would not usually affect tourists, as long as there is no sit-in at the airport again!

Phuket is far enough away from BKK or Pattaya were the trouble was this last week. You might still want your travel agent to get you a last minute deal of equal value.

You also need to check your travel insurance, since your not covered for internal civil disruptions on most insurance deals, so if you go and get stuck then you will pay a hefty price

Phuket is far away from Bangkok; shouldn't think any of the city's turmoil would affect as long as you make sure your flight is direct from the island and NOT via Bangkok. (Protesters shutdown Bangkok international airport the last time which left hundreds of thousands of foreign visitors stranded for days). Also do not venture to the restive south.

The Philippines could provide Phuket type vacation.

I did not suggest any Malaysian destination because in comparison to Thailand/ Philippines / Vietnam, the Malaysian states are conservative and dull especially in leisure & entertainment... and beer liquor is expensive.

No can do in Singapore - all prim & proper, its all so manufactured, artificial and pricey.

The short answers is that its all going down as I write and we won't know the result until tomorrow morning.

However, this is an extract of the UK travel advisory issued earlier today:

"There have been outbreaks of violence with protestors attacking Government vehicles. Some armoured vehicles are now deployed around Bangkok. Thai TV have shown pictures of some military vehicles being seized by protestors. In view of the deteriorating security situation anyone considering going to Bangkok should urgently review their plans."

http://www.fco.gov.uk/en/travelling-and-living-overseas/travel-advice-by-country/asia-oceania/thailand

However you're (or at least were - as you see to have changed your mind) going to Phuket. What is happening now in Bangkok wouldn't put me off going to Phuket if I had already booked a holiday to go there. Phuket is another world away from Bangkok.

Anyway, any of the beach resorts in Malaysia are OK if you want a nearby alternative; although I think the beaches are nicer in Thailand.

If you want to go, Phuket is a long way from BKK if you're flying direct it should be OK. I have 2 ex colleagues working in BKK and they both say it's being sensationalised.

You may be able to change, Malaysia is fantastic, and you can still cross the land border easily and receive a 30 day stamp for Thailand if you still want to check out the southern areas.

If you get a refund, try Hainan, Macau, Okinawa, or Indonesia for a beach based holiday..all absolutely great for beaches, water sports etc.

Edit: Friend has just said it's getting worse in the city now (4pm Monday UK time) but he's outside BKK and there's no trouble outside the city centre. However Thaskin's Red's are well organised and may well take over the airport again like a few months ago, but the army are so far protecting it much better than before. I doubt you're in physical danger by going there but may get held up if the airport is overrun.

Still can't see what's wrong with Japan, Indonesia, Mauritius etc. You've been to Phuket 4 times..

I'd say the hazards to tourists are absolutely minimal, especially considering you won't be going outside of Suvarnabhumi Airport. This is an internal Thai affair, to which farang are an irrelevance. The red shirts and yellow shirts may be as angry as hell at each other, but they couldn't care less about holiday makers. There's no hostility directed at them.

If you were going into Bangkok, there'd be reason for concern about getting caught up in it. As it is, you land in Suvarnabhumi, get a transfer to Phuket and you're in your hotel. If you're still uneasy, then fine, don't go, but if it were me I'd just keep my original holiday plans.

As of now the protests and state of emergency have not affected Phuket or any airports in Thailand at all. Unless the situation worsens in the next few days, I would just go to Phuket. Keep abreast of the situation, but if the protests don't spread to Phuket or the airports it may be a very good time to go to Phuket as it most likely will be less crowded than usual for this time of year.

http://www.phuketgazette.net/news/

http://www.bangkokpost.com/

Travel agents won't make you choose another location. That choice is yours.

If you're flying to Phuket with a three hour layover in Bangkok you should have no problems. The protests in Bangkok have not had any effect on the airports or Phuket so far.

If you decide on a different destination, Bali is a good choice, or even Vietnam. There are some very nice beaches there as well will a lot less tourists.

Go to Boracay island in the Philippines. It is recognized as the best beach in ASIA. I've been to Phuket, Phi Phi, Bali, Langkawi etc. and these places are no match to the beauty and party plac e of Boracay Island. Amazing crowd and the sand is powdery white.

Forget about the negative perception of the Philippines. Makati Business District is even better than Bangkok. Shopping malls in Metro Manila are way way better than malls in ASEAN.

Bali is also recommended if you are looking for beach holiday such as Phuket. Manage your holiday to Bali is easier with those online travel booking system. If you are looking for details information about Bali then try these websites http://www.hotels68.com or http://www.bali-travelnet.com

Go to the philippines instead! It has everything Thailand has except elephants but is so much better! I fell down the tourist trap that is Thailand once, never again Phi just blows Thailand away!!!

It saddens me to say, but as others have noted, Bali is probably a better, safer choice at this point, than any tourist destination in Thailand.

Consider Langkawi, Malaysia. Same sea (Andaman), different country.

Singapore, Malaysia, or Vietnam.

Go to Bail. Or fly into Signapore and get a flight direct to Phuket.

Yarmouth is kinda quiet at the moment......

Singapore looks cool

Try Severn beach....they never have trouble there.....not since the smoking ban caused the coach and horses to shut down

Fhuk it

phuket is a long long way from BKK dont worry nothing will be affected there

Pattaya.

I am trying to plan a holiday to thailand for a month, any ideas of the best places to go?

You asked the perfect person for the answer.I am an American living in Khon kaen,Thailand.I was just looking at a question about Myanmar and stumbled onto your question.

I do out of the way travel film so depending on your wants and needs I can answer all of them about Thailand.I have thought many times about using Yahoo answers to educate people about travel in Thailand and so I guess you are my first.

Do you want the regular tourist thing?Then start off by going to where everybody like myself went,Khaosan road,Bangkok.There you will find just like in the beginning of the movie'The Beach' 1000's of western tourists.I found it to be boring.Just a bunch of people who came to party and not see Thailand.Yeah,it was fun but you might as well stay home and do the same thing.

I know the real,real Thailand but I am giving you a slight different tourist look at Thailand because the places that I film you would have too much trouble finding(unless you are truely into something different).If you want to see the mostly real Thailand go to Mae hong son,Pi,Ban Phe(the port town off of Ko Samed island),Nong khai on the Mekong river,Ko Chang island is great,not to touristy except on one side which is great.The other side is nothing but miles of secluded beaches,just enough to be perfect.Phuket is not so good,touristy and full of hookers.Ko phi phi is beautiful but expensive.Bangkok is big,lame and stinky.Ayutthaya is great if you want to see something like the Angkor wat temples in Cambodia.Chiang mai is over rated.But,outside Chiang mai is nice.Khao yai national park where Leonardo Dicaprio and his friends jumped off the waterfall is beautiful and full of wildlife(a must see).Also,that part of the movie was filmed nowhere near an island,it is about 3 hours northeast of Bangkok.Kho samui is nice.North of it is Kho tao.If you are into ganga it is perfect for you,also lonely beach on Kho chang has the same kind of deal but that kind of thing depends on the person.I can write all night about places to stay for the best price,what to do and where to go but it would just take too long.If you want more info from me contact me at my Yahoo email.I can answer anything for you want to know about Thailand and don't worry it is fun for me!It's a great place to visit!

Hi,

It depends on what kind of experiences you want. Tourist of cultural? It's easy to have both. Everything from sunning on the beach to working as a volunteer at an Elephant training and wildlife reserve.

Try a website called www.sawadee.com

It's got lots of info about many parts of Thailand and what you can do, where to stay, what to eat.

I suggest a coking class. Great fun!

I have been 4 times and love the vibe, the food, the massages, the elephants....it goes on..

Get out of BKK asap, to expensive but still a lot cheaper than where you live.I only go to Pattaya now which suits me after 40 years of going to Land of Smiles.Phuket and Hua Hin are good but a bit expensive.Do a seach for Issan a lot of good cheap places up there in the country,good friendly people both thai and farang

i found this link with the best destinations in thailand:

http://www.tripwiser.com/destination_finder?type=site&topSearch=true&s_key=thailand

and here's a link with thailand's attractions and activities:

http://www.tripwiser.com/things_to_do_finder?type=activity&s_key=thailand

have fun!

Use this website as your planing assistant... http://www.discovery-thailand.com ... got a lot of interesting Thailand information such as place to visit, things must try, and so on. especially, for booking hotel as it offer you lowest rate guarantee .. see how cheaper than other website by going this yahoo answers question http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index;_ylt=AoSfZZmbLWq_iVoLwY8Qnj4V7RR.;_ylv=3?qid=20080703111903AAlL3YS

I hope it can help you for your trip.... have a nice trip

for a time being don't go to Bangkok, dairy there is demonstration in the street

Do I need vaccinations for a twelve day holiday to Thailand?

Vaccinations are NOT mandatory in Thailand.

Do NOT get vaccinated.

A vaccinated person is MORE likely to get a disease than a non-vaccinated person. The whole theory of vaccination is flawed. It causes a weakening of the immune system thus making those who are innoculated more susceptible to disease.

There are so many awful side effects to vaccination that it should be considered extremely dangerous.

Just sit back and think for a while.

Is there any sense in injecting a disease directly into the bloodstream.

We have been subjected to an awful mind control program to enable the drug manufacturers to make a fortune.

The Vaccination Hoax

http://www.whale.to/b/hoax1.html

If you want to study the history of vaccination, see

http://dgwa1.fortunecity.com/body/vaccination.html

To be on the safe side - yes. Anti-Malaria pills to if you cannot get a shot for that. Malaria is no nice thing to have

I know alot of people that have travelled to Thailand and got sick. Don't risk it and get your shots. If you go to a travel clinic and tell them that you are only going for 12 days, they usually give you the necessities, you probably won't need all of the shots. But make sure not to go over their without any shots. I was born there and when i went back to visit, I got really sick. It could be simple as the water or even a bug bite that could harm you.

You need to be careful of the mosquitoes.

Get a spray or some tablets.

Not unlless your going out of the major cities and into the jungle. Maybe a shot of pennicillin if you're gonna fool around and somepeople like the security of a Pepto Bismal "cocktail" every day. You'll have a great time in a great country with great people.

I have been all over Thailand and not encountered anything but given thye time of year with water born disease try some tablets for mossies.. But be brave most have got anti mossies bites stuff

If you are going to the usual tourist areas like Bangkok, Phuket, Pattaya or Chiangmai, you need not have any vaccination. Just anti-malaria pills will suffice.

well i have been living here in Thailand for almost 3 years never had a vaccination in the last 5 years and i have never had any problems with being sick IE only food poison which i have had once and i don't live in a tourist area where many western people come so and yes it is the rainy season but the rain does not last all day sometimes the rain last for 1 hour sometimes longer so feel free to use your own judgment

I have to agree with its pretty safe. BUT...bring your mossie stuff if going in the jungles or near Burma/Cambodia. I think a Hepatitis shot is good for any traveller who may eat local cuisine and not be sure ofthe standards of food care in that kitchen. In any country.

be safe go get it!!!

skip the anti-malarial. you won't need it. i have lived in thailand for nearly 3 years and have not heard of a single tourist or expat that got malaria here.

Could be...if you don't have all the vaccinations before going to Thailand, you could catch something. Even if it is for 12 days, don't risk it.

You might want to consider a Hep A vaccination but other than that, you ought to be ok. The big problems health wise are malaria, HIV/AIDS and dengue fever, none of which you can get vaccinations for. But there are minimal health problems in Thailand.

Great places to go for a short Thailand or West Malaysia holiday?

Can some kind souls help with some spots you have visited that provide interesting things to see or do? Your opinions or personal experiences would be most appreciated.!

I'd been to both places on a short holiday.

Thailand is very beautiful and exotic. I enjoyed my stay in many places in Thailand. There's nothing, as in nothing's garbage.

Malaysia on the other hand, is a little anti-west as reflected on the speeches of their Prime Minister. I'd been to many different places from Johor to Kehda. I'd say, the places I'd been to are kind of lacking in something.... which I don't know what. The worst part is that one night, I was robbed at knife point in the City Center of Kuala Lumpur, few meters away from a police station.

I'd been to different places in South East Asia, if and when I am coming back, I won't certainly go back to Malaysia. It's a traumatic experience to visit Kuala Lumpur.

Hi, it depends on your interest and people you are travelling with.

Great destinations in Thailand include Phuket, Hua Hin for families and couples. For couples, other Thai destination include Phi Phi Island. The beaches are great!

For Malaysia, great beach holidays would be Tioman and Pangkor Towards the north, you'll have Redang for diving.

Malaysia holidays for families include Penang, KL (shopping), Genting Highlands (themepark) and Cameron Highlands.

im 15 and have been lucky to have seen more of the world than many people 5 times my age so i will share my vacation with you. last summer i took a cruise through Asia. Malaysia and Thailand were both on the itinerary. (i am sorry some of the places i went to are blurred.) i remember i took a tour in Malaysia and it was very nice considering I'm a teenager and it was a tour. the cruise ended in Thailand (that's where my family got off) and i remember we stayed for the night. shopping was good and my whole family (of six) got 2 massages for 8 dollars per person for one hour. (one in the airport waiting to catch our flight home and one because our taxi driver suggested it. it was lovely. the ladies were so tiny they actually walked on you. they served you tea at the end and were very respectful. they liked the fact that my brother and sister have blonde hair and blue eyes and bowed to our family about 9 times which (i dont exactly know why) made me feel good. i remember visiting a famous palace type thing (i think it was in Thailand too) where everything was ornate and decorated in gold. it was funny though, my sister was wearing shorts and needed to "rent" a sheet like cover up to hide her skin when we visited. i also just remember, we went to a show in Thailand with snakes and another with traditional dance and fighting and elephants. i got a picture standing under an elephant standing on two legs lol... oh and be aware of some of their markets, you can get good bargains and nice souvenirs but they literally will pull you into their "stands." and many open markets sell different parts of very smelly animals... other than that i am sure youll have a lovely experience!

bkk

Where can i book a holiday to thailand from belfast or dublin. we would like to stay 3 nights here and 3 there

we want this to be aspecial holiday and split 14 nights into 3 or 4 different places

You could book your own flights yourself! Check the airline websites and put the data in and see what the prices are for the airfare. You should check with the airlines websites anyway because otherwise how would you know if you got a good deal from a discounter if you don't know the price they have to beat?

You could even call the airlines reservations centers and find out how much the tickets would cost. Ask the airlines for advice on which days would be cheaper to fly. Sometimes by changing your departure date by a few days can save you lots of money.

When you get to Thailand plan on spending a few days in Bangkok in the beginning of your trip and at least one day the night before you fly home. This way there would be less chance of missing your flight home because the connecting flight is late or canceled. The last night in Bangkok would give you a chance for some last minute shopping too!

You can book hotel rooms on your own, but if you want a travel agency to do it for you you can start in your own home town so you have an idea of what prices you have to compare other companies against.

I would stick with 3 specific areas otherwise you would be spending a lot of time at airports or on planes or trains. In Bangkok, as well as Chiang Mai or Pattaya you can easily get tours booked through travel agencies after you arrive in Thailand. Tour bookings are pretty easy! Go to a travel agency, check the sample tours book, choose a tour and the tour company picks you up at your hotel and returns you there at the end of the tour.

Good luck.

3 nights here and there... where and where? and 14 nights u mean in thailand? where exactly do you want to go in thailand? cities or the islands?

You really need to be a bit more clear, bcos right now I'm wringing my hair out!

There are many ways to plan a holiday to Thailand - do you want to plan it urself or settle for tour operator? Many people book flights and hotels themselves (you get good discounts online) and then arrange for day trips.

try looking on vrbo.com - vacation rentals by owner - you can usually get some really great deals on houses or condos.

Can you please advise the best method of taking spending money etc on a holiday to Thailand.?

Do not change your money where you live. Take as much cash or even better travellers cheques as they are covered if lost. You get a better rate of exchange on both of these methods. Travellers cheques give you a bit extra on the pound so I personally take a mixture of the two. You can take ATM cards but my Father lives in Thailand and has now been stung 3 times by card cloning and lost about £2k, that's not to say they aren't safe as I've also used ATM's myself without any problems. If you do use an ATM then I would usually use one in or outside a bank when they are open. Never ever use an ATM situated in or outside the 7 Eleven shops.

Back to the question, just take some cash and some travellers cheques and you'll be fine. You will love Thailand, the people are lovely, the food is No1 and the hospitality that you receive will be second to none. Enjoy you hols and if you have a spare ticket then give me a call. Take care.

HI Take a small amount of baht and change money as you need it , you get a better rate in Thailand @ 67=69 baht for £1

If you use ATM your bank may charge you for each time you take money out of the machines , some machines only give you 3000 baht at one time

Most hotels have safes in the rooms

the best exchange is the dollar but you can use atm but if you bank with a English bank tell them you are going to use your card there some banks Barclay's included will stop you using your card unless you tell them most charge but some do not find out from your bank if they charge and what rate nationwide do not charge

ATM is the best way - sure - - however, bring along a small amount of Travel checks and cash just in case the ATM is out of order in some small city - - etc.. and expect that you will not have to use the cash or t/c but only keep for emergency..

If you have an ATM card, this will be the easiest way to carry your money into Thailand. ATMs are practically at anywhere you find shops or banks.

Just get a few baht at the airport for immeidate expenses when you get there, and then use cash machines. Everywhere that tourists go, there will be atms - trust me I have been to Thailand many times.

I took a combination of US $ (because we also went to Cambodia) and Thai Baht. There are lots of places in the touristy areas and cities to exchange money. Probably not so many off the beaten track or out in the sticks.

cash is the best way but change in Thailand to bhart little at airport the rest when you need it but don't take to much out with you at night.have been many times and found this the best way as you don't need you're pasport with you all the time as with traveller's cheque

Just take your cash card, loads of ATM's everywhere. Just keep a few bhat in your pocket for food etc. Credit cards are accepted in most shops etc....Enjoy your holiday...a fantastic country

American Express.....Don't leave home without it!

Take a small amount of cash.You can change money at Bangkok airport for taxi's etc; but you will get a lower rate of exchange there so just get a small amount.Your debit card or credit card is the safest and you will find lots of ATM machines wherever you go.There is really no problem just go and enjoy yourself,

http://tawat-roadmapinthailand.blogspot.com/

We are planing a holiday in Phuket Thailand in March and would like a luxury Villa to rent does anyone know a

web site where I could get some info, by the way there will be 14 of us

Follow the link below but you are better of to mail these people they are in Phuket and can give you the best advise...

Have a glance at "Phuket Gazette" with lots of offers or place a free add yourself. Or visit the webside of "Siamrealestate". Would start right away with your search since there are not so many Villas for 14 persons to rent.

I've put a link to a website below. The info should be useful. You should contact the guy directly too - he's a helpful guy (and no it's not me!). Hope that helps.

By the way Phuket is very hot in March!

Do you think it's safe to go holiday nowadays to Hatyai, Thailand?

I'm so worried that it might be unsafe? Since the last bombing of the few Malaysian's favourite tourist spot last 2 weeks.. Anyone been there this few weeks?

I just came back from Hatyai. Tourism is down over 70% and hotel rooms are only booked at

The best thailand holiday ?

please tell me what should be included for the best thailand holiday for 6 days. i mean which places to stay and what to see and eat ..i want to make my thailand holiday the most memorable one.please give details

Hi Buddy,

well i been Bangkok last year we spend 9 days dere (6 days in Koh Samui Island) n 3 in Bangkok.....well first of ol plan ya holiday if u want to hv rocking one then PATAYA n if u lyk peace then Koh Samui Island is best...... coz its sort of Virgin Island n many more to discover n enjoy..... n abt satay SOMERSET APPARTMENTS r best options dere.

i LOVED going to Chiang Mai, it was so much cooler than Pattaya and Bangkok.

I stayed at the Sheraton in the center of Chiang Mai and there was loads of stuff to do in walking distance.

The food there is really healthy and yummy but the best time to go is in the winter; for all of Thailand.

Another great place to visit in Thailand is Pattaya and Phuket; where it's very tropical and warm and humid.

Now with restaurants I'm not so sure because I went on a tour, but I do have destinations.

You should go visit the elephant camp in Thailand, in Chiang Mai. The address is 119/9 Tapae Rd., Muang District, CHiang Mai, Thailand 50100.

maesaele@loxinfo.co.th

Other destinations include temples and palaces.

One palace in particular, is the Grand Palace in Bangkok. It's so gorgeous and diverse, with buildings that look western and other buildings that are very traditional.

I hope i helped, and if you want to know more, just email me and I can tell you more (:

good luck!

I would recommend Phuket and Koh Samui for the best Thailand holiday for 6 days. You may get some ideas about these two islands through my contents here below:

1) Phuket, the paradise of Thailand

2) Koh Samui, a nice holiday destination

Hope this would help.

Many of Thailand attractions that will make you momorable. Such as

Bangkok http://bangkok-attractions.blogspot.com

Pattaya http://pattaya-hotelsbooking.blogspot.com

Koh Samet http://samet-hotels.blogspot.com

Koh Chang http://kohchang-hotelsbooking.blogspot.com

Koh Samui http://samui-hotelsbooking.blogspot.com

Phuket http://phuket-hotelsbooking.blogspot.com

Krabi http://krabi-hotels-booking.blogspot.com

Chiang Mai http://chiangmai-hotels-booking.blogspot.com

But I recommand you for Phuket and Krabi

Let 's go to phuket ...find info. at http://gongga.flixya.com

i hope useful. :)

Phuket and Koh Samui for the best Thailand holiday

http://spa-thai-guide.blogspot.com/

I think the best Thailand holiday is the Songkran Festival!!!!.Try going to Bangkok then!!!!!!

Songkrarn

Probably Bangkok. There's a lot of shopping center there.

Sharm el sheikh vs beach holiday in thailand?

We are thinking of going to Sharm el Sheikh in Egypt or Thailand on holiday in August this year.What is the best location given that I have a 10 year old daughter?

Hi,

Been to both, and Sharm only three weeks ago. I went to Sharm for the diving (of course you can do that in Thailand).

Sharm is a lot closer 5 hours as opposed to 14 hours.

I would go to Thailand, Sharm is only worth it for a short haul diving holiday. The prices are very near UK now for food and not as nice in my opinion as traditional Thai food. Its VERY commercialised in Sharm. The flight to Thailand will be more expensive but you'll save money compared to sharm we you get there. Sharm feels catastrophic after a while, Thailand will be more chilled

If you can afford the time its no contest Thailand.

Amanda

I wouldn't go to Wales probably have your cottage burnt down!!

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/wales/3544851.stm

Generalisations are stupid aren't they love...

Thailand has everything. Stunning beaches, great shopping, great hospitality and plenty of activities and trips for the family. It is a unique place to visit. A trip of a life time.

I would pick Thailand too. However, chose very carefully as it is the rainy season for some areas. Koh Samui is probably your best bet. Hua HIn is also ok( but the beach is not so nice)

I suppose it depends on if you prefer Tsunami's to bombs!

I would go to neither, have you been to Wales?

What is the best way fo a golf holiday package to thailand?

Thanks Doug. Here I am. Hopefully the guy who ask the question is not really a hecker. Otherwise, I should really like to be introduced!!!?? Just came back from a game myself and played really bad, for not playing for three weeks. My group played worse though, so I got all the money!!!! Went all to lunch! I am gonna watch Bristish open now.

About the golf tour in Thailand, there are so many. I think there are more than 200 golf courses throughout Thailand. If you really like the exotic of it, there is one golf course on an island called Samui Island. The name of the course I think is Santiburi (the town of peace). The famous course in Thailand is the Blue Canyon on the island of Phuket (hosting of the Johny Walker Classis that Tiger won I think over Ernie). Check out also courses in Chiang Mai, those are cooler places, but in December and January are t the coolest months of the year and golfing is heaven. It get to 10-15 degree Celcius in the north; i.e. Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai and Lampang provinces. (Just got back from my home course near Bangkok, which is 36 Championship Holes call Lamlukka (the brook of the little birds) it's 35 degree celcius (your body temp. is 36!). Lamlukka has one of the finest greens in Thailand (top three). Other famous courses around Bangkok area are Royal Gem, Thai Country Club but these are closed member only clubs.

List of some names are :

It goes by Bangkok area; North, East and South. Thailand also famous for foods, temples, if you are a true golfer, the massage is really good (I mean a true one not a kinky one). Like New York city (42nd street), London (Kingcross; Peddington), Amsterdam, Berlin, Bangkok also sined with red light district; if that is what you're looking for.

Beaches here beat Long Island, Nice, Cann, Monte Carlo, Riviara by so far, I've been to all. Try it without bias, and you believe. There are some tourists come to Pattaya beach and stay for three months, and it's not even a good beach for Thais.

Bangkok area:

1. Bangpakong Riverside Country Club

2. Bangphra International Golf Club

3. Bangpoo Country Club

4. Bangsai Country Club

5. Dragon Hills Golf & Country Club

6. Dynasty Golf & Country Club

7. Green Valley Country Club

8. Kiarti Thanee Country Club

9. Krisda City Golf Hills

10. Krungthep Kreetha

11. Krung Kavee Golf Course & Country Club Estate

12. Lakewood Country Club

13. Lam Luk Ka Country Club

14. Muang-Ake Golf Club

15. Muang-Ake Vista Golf Course

16. Natural Park Ramindra Golf Club

17. Navatanee Golf Club

18. Northern Rangsit Golf Club

19. Panya Indra Golf Club

20. Panya Park Golf Club

21. President Country Club

22. Pinehurst Golf & Country Club

23. Rangsit Sports Club

24. Rachaburi Country Club

25. Royal (Villa) Rachaburi Golf Club

26. Subhapruek Country Club

27. Thai Country Club

28. Thana City Golf & Country Club

30. Thanont Golf View & Sports Club

30. The Rose Garden Golf Club

31. The Royal Gems Golf & Sports Club

32. The Royal Golf & Country Club

33. The Vintage Club

34. Uniland Golf & Country Club

35. Windmill Park Country Club

1. Eastern Star Golf Club

2. Great Lake Golf & Country Club

3. Khao Kheow Country Club

4. Laem Chabang Country Club

5. Natural Park Hill Golf Course

6. Natural Park Resort Golf Club

7. Noble Place Golf & Country Club

8. Phoenix Golf & Country Club

9. Plu-Ta-Luang Golf Club

10. Rayong Green Valley Country Club

11. Royal Lakeside Golf Club & Resort

12. Siam Country Club

13. Sriracha Golf Club

1. Lake View Princess Resort & Golf Club

2. Milford Paradise & Golf Club

3. Palm Hills Golf Resort and Country Club

4. Sawang Resort Golf Club

5. Springfield Royal Country Club of Cha-Am

6. The Majestic Creek Country Club

7. The Royal Hua-Hin Golf Club

1. Barrington Saiyoke & Sport Golf Club

2. Evergreen Hills Golf Club & Resort

3. Grand Garden & Golf Club

4. Green World Hot Spring Resort & Golf Club

5. Milford River Kwai Golf & Country Club

6. Mission Hills Golf Club (Kanchanaburi)

7. Nichigo Resort & Country Club

1. Bhumibol Dam Golf Club

2. Chiangmai Green Valley Country Club

3. Chiangmai-Lamphun Golf Club

4. Lanna Golf Club

5. Royal Chiangmai Golf Resort

6. Santiburi Country Club

7. Waterford Valley Chiangrai

1. Forest Hill Country Club

2. Friendship Meadows Country Club

3. Mission Hills Golf Club Khao Yai

4. Rooks Khorat Country Club Golf & Resort

5. Royal Hills Golf Course

6. The Country Club Khao Yai

7. The Khao Cha-Ngok Golf & Country Club

8. Voyage Panorama Resort & Golf Club

1. Blue Canyon Country Club

2. Banyan Tree Club & Laguna

3. Phuket Country Club

4. Loch Plam Golf Club

5. Thai Muang Beach Golf Course

6. Hat-Yai Resort & Golf Club

Search the webs below for more information. You can really book the organised golf tour through web. Golf in Thailand can be played all year round. If you really serious about coming, send me an email for more information.

I think this is a questions for a banker named Ice Cube. I will give him this link. Ok I left a link to this question on his 360 page his name Ice Cube - He has played a lot of golf there and should be able to help you

http://360.yahoo.com/profile-G_FGKKcodLL5Pf0_3r0B#ymgl-guestbook

don't know answer to your question but unlike icecube I do know that it is THE OPEN not British Open

What's the best time for a Canadian to holiday in Thailand? I'm an outdoors person who loves to see nature.

I love to travel but I'm not a great lover of heat. I can stand mid eighties and low ninties. I'm an amature photographer that love to take shots of nature's wonders.... waterfalls, seascapes, sunsets, etc.. I'm only able to speak English but I want to meet the Thais and see them in their culture. Are there any Thai guides that will spend time with me when I'm there? (they must speak English!) I'm not interested in company guided tours; they are usually too rushed for me.

The most-talked about celebration takes place in the northern province of Chiang Mai where Songkran is celebrated from April 13 to 15. Songkran is a Thai traditional New Year which starts on April 13 every year and lasts for 3 days. The Thai people celebrate this festival with water. Everyone gets soaking wet and since it is the hottest season of the year, the custom is quite refreshing. Songkran is a Public Spring Cleaning Day, supported by the religious belief that anything old and useless must be thrown away or it will bring bad luck to the owner.

Don't worry most of Thai guides do communicate in English and they have one to one tour guide service.

Now is the time.

hey there.. thailand is usually hot all around the year... but since it's in the southern hemisphere the climate will work in the opposite way... the seasons will be the other way around so if u go on summer(canadian summer) it will be winter in Thailand.. but still I've been there and it's a grwat place... the only thing is that it's a little bit humid... I went there in February and it was winter in my country but it was so sunny and beautiful there... so it was a wonderful place to get some tan and discover a lot of places and a totally interesting culture... hope these sites help... have fun!!! :o)

www.thailandlife.com

www.thailander.com

www.guidetothailand.com

let see if u like winter come in demeber. if u like summer come rigth away it is verey hot

how about in october.

It is an eternal question. If you go to Thailand for a first time, it will be difficult to leave the tourists atmosphere. I have rented several times a car and toured through Thailand with a few people I met on the net (ICQ, but be careful) If they speak good english they are much better than any so called "qualified" guides, who only think about their fee and the commission they will get on almost any money you spend. They will bring you to big restaurants and hotels with these boring breakfast buffets where you will pay 300 b. (price in a good guesthouse for a giant breakfast : 120b). Official guides is one of the few things I do not like in Thailand.

if you team up with farangs living in the North, maybe you can find somebody who wants to do the Mae Hong Son loop from Chiang Mai. It is fresher there, most of the loop is hilly. In the winter it is sometimes cold.

Of course you could also do one of the National Parks. As a westerner, you will pay ten times as much as a Thai (smile!). National Parks in Thailand usually are well organised, many have a camping ground. some are very big. guides tend to be more serious here.

You will find several sites on the Mae Hong Son Loop and the National Parks of Thailand

National Parks: take a wide brimmed had and a tick pincet.

I am going to Thailand for a holiday for 4 weeks.?

I love to see the countryside and to meet the ordinary common people. What is the best scenic place or island to see, and what is the most preferred means of transport. I shall also love to travel by train.

I hate touts, hagglers, though I love to compare prices while buying. I shall also like you to tell me about budget family hotels within walking distance to disembarkation points.

Also let me know a historic place or monument in Thailand or neighbouring country.

Thanks for help!

Go to Issan - the north east part of Thailand. Life is simple, cheap and you can get nearly everywhere on provincial buses and they are dirt cheap. In most moderately large towns in the northeast (Roi Et, Sakon Nakorn, Mukdahan, for example) a room in a nice clean simple hotel will cost about $10 USD a night. Food can be had for a couple of bucks a day - simple stuff like chicken and rice or som tam. Another place to go is in the South. Not in Yala or Patani but Songkla and north. Songkla is a great little town - clean, cheap, right on the ocean. The far south is a bit dangerous with the Islamic unrest but north of Songkla is great. Trains go all over and if you can't get there by train, take a bus.

The islands tend to be over-developed and touristy. Ko Samui 15 years ago was great - now it's just a mafia run tourist trap with overpriced hotels, lousy food and touts galore.

Phuket could be OK if you stay away from the west coast - avoid Patong - another sex tourist destination. Phuket town, on the south east coast is far better. And cheaper and more Thai.

Have fun!

if u still have enough time...try to arrange a tour to damnoensaduak to see the original floating market in thailand.. its less than 2hrs travel by coach from bangkok (we have it arranged from the travel desk counter of our hotel).

within that area also, u can try the elephant ride if u feel like it... visit the rose garden, the snake farm and a little farther there is an elephant show.....

or travel down to pattaya which is more than 2hrs travel by coach. attractions.... the countryside scenery, nooch garden, several temples, elephant show/ride, snake farm and girly bars...

just always be extra cautious on getting around thailand :=) i was there 3weeks ago and i was unexpectedly awed by the beauty and charm of thailand... two thumbs up for their tourism program!

I have never been there but when you go and come back fill me in on all the good things you did..Have a great trip..

Thailand is a fantastic place... it depends what you are into really. If you can handle tourists and like scenery I would reccomend a couple of places near Krabi... Ao Nang is one of the nicest places I have visited. They have ok diving and fantastic scenery. You can catch a boat to Rehleigh beach and it is pretty stunning.

If you are into more cultural things Chiang Mai in the north is quite good value. There are some nice little places, like Pai, that are interesting, and the sleezy tourism is very low key.

There are an awful lot of people who try to rip you off in Thailand, especially in Bankok, so just expect it to happen alot and don't trustanyone who says something dodgy - you will get used to it really fast.

Have a fantastic trip! I am hoping to go in January :P

i don't know about Thailand very much i have never been there though i had been to Mauritius and it is a heaven place.

anyways have a great holiday and have fun.

I would also recommend going to Chiang Mai, I lived there for three months and its one of the greatest places in the world! It has conveniences for travelers, but not the complete westernization you see in Bangkok. It's possible to go to places and restaurants around the city and meet ordinary friendly Thai people. There are many temples to see there. I would recommend staying at the Suan Doi House near the university. You can travel from Chiang Mai by train should you desire. I believe I left Chiang Mai at 6 pm and arrived in Bangkok the next day in the late morning.

As for the south, I stayed a week at Ko Samet on Ao Wai (that's the name of the beach). It was quiet and had mostly Thai vacationers. It didn't have the spectacular views of the deep south, but still a beautiful beach vacation and very relaxing.

Which holiday destination is better Mexico or Thailand?

Am planning on going away in the summer, which destination is best?. I want a mix of beach, city & shopping.

Take a cruise to Mexico they treat you like Kings and Queens onboard you will love it

MEXICO...great landscapes...great beaches... ( CANCUN), friendly people...lots of places for shopping...beautiful cities...Mexico City has a history of 3000 years,it's an open air museum...

And it's more secure (safe) than Thailand.Think about that too.

there's no better value http://www.cheapholidaysun.com

Both are fab but out of the two I much preferred Thailand. You can do all the shopping you want in Bangkok and then when you want to do the beach thing get an internal flight to somewhere like Koh Samui for beautiful beaches, great restaurants, amazing views, wildlife and friendly locals. The nightlife is really good too.

Its inexpensive to travel between islands so can see a few different ones if you want. Its also really cheap so youre money will go further.

If you do go to Mexico I wouldnt really recomend Cancun as you could be in Florida or anywhere its a nice place but it doesnt really stand apart.

Never been to Mexico but Thailand is an amazing place with what I consider to be the worlds most friendly people. It is diverse too with lovely mountain locations like Chiang Mai in the north and beach locations like Phuket and Kho Samui in the south.

I don't know where to start since this is very subjective. Both are fantastic.

Perhaps you need to research the two National Tourism sites, have a look at the pictures and the excellent info they provide.

Also have a look at the cost of accommodation and the facilities that you can expect. Thailand represents excellent value for money, particularily in Phuket where they are still recovering from the Tsunami - at least if you went there you'd be contributing to getting the people back on their feet.

Good luck with your choices:

I like Thailand but have never been to Mexico.

It all depends on where you are and the time of year. I would do lots of research on the Web and see which you find most attractive. You will be able to check out places, hotels , weather and whats on etc. Thailand is very cheap and easy to get around, English is reasonable in the tourist areas and the food is excellent as in the beer. Sadly AIDS is common so be very careful. Have a look at the Lonely Planet guide and its online advice pages, these are usually up to date. Bangkok is good for cheap shopping and you can fly to the Islands or get a coach to Pataya on the coast. You need at least two weeks to get the mood !

Has anyone gone on a holiday to Thailand?

I'm going to Thailand in a few weeks time, I am staying at the Hard Rock Hotel in Pattaya, has anyone stayed there and what was it like, weather, service etc...

I have been to thailand several times .Pattaya is nice and Thai people are very hospitable,weather at this time (March to april) is humid and HardRock Hotel is a very cool place you should be ready with your sexy swimsuit and even convertion of dollars to Batt is amazing you will be surprised that your money is more than enough.Enjoy your exotic vacation

How can I find out about any concerts in Bangkok,Thailand this Oct/Nov - going for a holiday.?

Would like to attend any concert in Bangkok,Thailand or any surrounding areas between 15 Oct and 18 Nov this year.Anyone know where I can obtain tickets from the UK for concerts over there ( if there are any )

try the below link. it list or concerts and you can purchase tickets online.

Heaven and Hell, fronted by Dio and Black Sabbath reunion in Singapore on Oct 27. Check http://www.sistic.com.sg. Like to come over?

TTMaster lists upcoming concerts.

For current events in Thailand concerts etc.. check out this link http://www.escapethailand.com/current_event_thailand.html

Cheers,

What the best way to book a holiday to Thailand from the uk?

all the main tour agents seem really expensive. I want to go go some place that's not that tourist but still with good night life

Tour agents will bump the price up to get their 10%. Online agents (such as Expedia, Travelocity, et al) are often much cheaper. Even the airlines' own websites can offer the best deals. Just be prepared to do a bit of research yourself. It's fun doing it, and it's far cheaper. Twice I've been quoted airfares 1/3 more expensive in "independent" travel agents than the online prices for exactly the same flight to Thailand. Going via another country often also reduces your costs but increases the travel time - via the Middle East is a common waypoint (Gulf Air (crap) and Emirates (ok) being the main contenders).

Use www.tripadvisor.com to read reviews of hotels. But don't let one bad review spoil ten good ones.

When you get there, book any tours locally. Even your hotel will offer cheaper deals than booking in the UK. Better still, negotiate in local travel agents [in Thailand].

Just read up as much as you can to get an idea where you'd like to go, get a cheap flight (see newspaper ads) and find accommodation on arrival. It's easy and you see what you're getting.

Trail Finders - I booked with them then for the initial flight, I booked my further hotels and destinations when I arrived, its realy easy and a hell of alot cheaper

Try at http://www.HotelClub.net/enter.asp?id=44620

book direct to hotel without any 3rd party involve.

check www.thailandselection.com.....some hotels has packages too

enjoy!

Will I Get A Suntan From A Holiday In Thailand?

hey...

well you no wht some girls are like, jst going on holiday for a good suntan aha ;P ...im like tht & im going to Phuket Krabi in Thailand for 3weeks at the end of June/beginning of July. will i get a good tan...like a really good 1 !?

...thanks guys ! [=

Sure do. The sun comes out everyday except when the strom comes, and even when it does, it doesn't stay long.

Bring lots of lotion.

Tanning is not a good idea- in Thailand or anywhere else. You're probably young- so let me pass some knowledge on to you. Suntans, although popular and fashionable, are really infact evidence of severe skin damage. The pigmentation is really your skin trying to protect itself from the sun. By the time you have a toasty golden tan, it's too late. Your skin is already damaged.

Studies have shown, and experts agree that sun exposure is the number one cause of premature aging- wrinkles, liver spots, blotching. Trust me- when you're older, you'll want to avoid having these at all costs.

If you do go out in the sun, wear a strong sunscreen- SPF 50+. Be sure to wear a large brimmed hat and sunglasses- sun exposure to the eyes are believed to cause cataracts later on in life.

Yes, you can get a suntan in Thailand! Thailand is warm from top to bottom!

You can even get a suntan in Bangkok or Chiang Mai too!

Even during the rainy season there is enough sunshine to get a sunburn too!

Too many tourists stay out in the sun too long without any sun protection and end up with sunburns - be careful! Don't over stay your time in the sun!

Have safe sun!

well i am going in July too with my bf and i cant wait.

I want a tan very much like u im a typical girl and cant wait to see how brown i get :-)

i have been told its rain season but some say its bad and most say its fine(may rain here and there mayb a couple of hrs a day but then the sun shines and the temperature is always above 30 so its more like tropical rain when it happens)

ul be there 3 weeks and im sure it wont rain everyday! not even all day so ignore any1 trying to bring u down about ur trip!

during low season i have heard there are far less tourists aswell which makes everything cheaper and easier to book on the spot!

check this out (its a vid from an aussie guy who has been to Thailand-Phi Phi-Phuket tons of times and see what he has to say about low season and check out his videos filmed in JUNE-JULY!):

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kJ7t5NTes-g&feature=related

just watch it and ul see how lovely it is...hav a great time mayb il c u out there xXx :-)

i'm Thai, i don't think you should travel in Phuket or Krabi in that time because that month is rain season that mean it's not really good on the beach maybe you should change to another city in thailand is better or chiang mai

its so hot you can cook an omlette in sunlight honey.. definately tan is on the menu

You may get a suntan if it stops raining for long enough. Its the wet season from June til October...

Depends on how long you get to stay in the sun. If plenty, you will definitely get a good tan. Maybe sunburnt too.

If the sun is out and you spend time on the beach, yes. Don't forget sunscreen.

heck yes you will. probably a sunburn too ;)

What's the difference between thailand and malaysia for a holiday?

which would you recommend?

Thailand is more interesting, lots more things to do and see and I am not just talking about the obvious here. In K.L after you visit The Petronas Tower, what else is there to see?. It becomes like every other city.

Shopping, sure but they are more expensive than the US if you want to buy perfume, Levis jeans or branded items. Fake items, well Thailand has a lot more fake rubbish.

Melaka has history that goes back to the Portuguese. I have been to temples or historical sites over 700 years old in Thailand.

Plus, its cheaper in Thailand. Go to a 4 star hotel and spend only US$40 a night.

If for sex...you know where...

i,v been to both places & i would not go back to malaysia ,once is enough where as i,v been to thailand 5 times . the shoping is so much better in thailand & cheeper ,the food was good in malaysia but no where near as good as thiland ,as for site seeing there more to see in thailand

If you want beaches, I'd say Thailand.

But then again, Malaysia does have good beaches, especially on the east coast. Try some of the islands like Perhentian, Tioman, Redang to name a few. I'd say that Malaysia is more other things than beaches - there's the nightlife in KL, the highlands tea plantations (and casino), the rainforests along the spine of the peninsula and the states of Sabah and Sarawak on the Borneo side of the country, not forgetting the orang utan sanctuary and climbing the highest peak in SE Asia - Mount Kinabalu.

Think of it this way - Malaysia is a combination of all the bits of Thailand, Singapore and Indonesia in the one country.

So, for beaches, Thailand. For diversity in other things plus beaches, go for Malaysia.

Thailand is better for single and family vacation.The advantages are cheaper in terms of hotel rates,alcoholic drinks,cigarettes,transportation,massage... and a wide variety of night life.But in some tourist places they have a 2 pricing policy.Most thai people are polite.No problem for the tourist with local police.Less muslims in Thailand(only in south of thailand).If you are a muslim it will be a bit difficult to find muslim food.But less people understand English.Rampant pickpockets found in the BTS.And the famous Bangkok traffic jams.

Malaysia is more expensive to visit.Only a few entertainment here.And the entertainment joints are often raided by the police.In other words,malaysia is more suited as a formal meeting venue and for honeymoons.majority of the people here are muslims.Malaysian police often targets the " black " skin people.Rampant snatch thieves on motorbike in Malaysia.Most malaysian able to speak English,even the taxi drivers.

Both countries have nearly the same exchange rates to the US dollar.

The great variety of food would be the ONLY difference that makes Malaysia better than Thailand; BUT Thai food is excellent like most everything else in the fascinating country. Malaysia rates "average" and "mediocre" in most things.

It's better to go Thailand - Bangkok is far more interesting.

both have nice beaches but money wise, thailand is much more cheaper

Huge differences between Thailand and Malaysia will be::

Thailand-

Easily get bombed here and there..dirty..messy..aids..

Tsunami..limited food variety..not many local people

could speak a descent English..not many things to see.accept the ancient ruins..statues..and maybe the beach..oh! ya..driving in Bangkok was damn crazy!

Malaysia-

Never been bombed since Independance day, literally clean, food is heaven in Msia..almost everyone speaks English..beaches are fantastic like Pangkor Laut, the Andaman at Langkawi..Terengganu..bla..bla..etc..sho... were cheap too!

so i would personally recommend Malaysia..she have everything you want in a holiday..

welcome to Malaysia!

more safe from Thailand.

It depends to what you like actually. If you are into beach and sun bathing I would say Thailand is far more interesting than Malaysia. The beaches there are perfect. Cristal clear water. Nice clean beach. White soft sand. Nice friendly people. Other than that, there have lots of cool cafes, restaurant, cheap nice hotel etc. Though those beaches at east coast like Perhentian Island and Redang are good, I would personally say that they are nothing like those you can find in Thailand.

go to http://www.family-beach-vacation.com - both countries are very nice and there is a lot to do and see. Their cultures may be different from yours but that is what makes the holiday more interesting.

This is difficult because it depends what you are looking for both are good.Why not be different from the crowd and try Malaysia

.its got to be Thailand.

couple hundred miles i think xx

Malaysia is the best....unless u're into prostitute's. Then I'd say Thailand.

sex and the crowds... Thailand. Beaches, relaxation, adventure, jungle trekking... Malaysia. Don't forget, Sabah and Sarawak on Borneo also belong to Malaysia, and THAT could be a destination that interests you!

Happy Travelling

Herman, Sabah

Confused by Thailand Visa for long holiday?

Im going for a 35 day trip to Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam and Laos. When i arrive i am leaving Thailand almost straight away to go to Vietnam then coming back to Thailand at the end. Will i be able to get a 30 day visa on arrival and then renew it when i re-enter or will that not work because i dont have a flight out of Thailand within 30 days of arriving? Thanks!

on arrival at Thailand you will be issued with a transit visa which is valid for 30 days and cancelled when you leave Thailand. On your return to Thailand you will be issued with a new 30 day transit visa. So you have no problems

You will have no problems. Since your stay in Thailand will not exceed 90 days, and you will get 2 VOAs, you are well within the current limits.

If you stay in Thailand for 90 days, you can make 2 border runs to extend your visa for 30 days. After that you are required to get a proper tourist visa. You, however, have nothing to worry about.

Enjoy your trip!!

Yes you can. You will get a 30-day entry pass each time you enter Thailand and you can get a max of 3 such passes in a 6 months period. That is how it works. So no issue for your holidays.

You will have no problems...dependent on your passport you are allowed 3 X 30 day VOA's in a 6 month period

I'm going to Thailand on holiday soon , and I would like to know where is the best place to go ?

It should have excellent places to go diving and good night life !

You are asking for places with dives and nightlife. Then it will be Phuket. There are some dive spots acclaimed as among the best in the world in a recent US tour survey. So you can't go wrong. There are a number of island resorts to keep you hopping around for awhile. Likewise, Phuket has a number of theme parks for visitors, so you can keep yourself occupied whilst you are there.

So go and enjoy yourself. The locals are very friendly, not like those warnings you have about in Bangkok. Just normal common sense should prevails. Just have a good time there.

Enjoy.

bottle beach (haad kuat) on Koh pan gnan-its straight out of the movie "beach"-smiley bungalows was good! Enjoy

Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit,

Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit,

Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit, Phukit,

it is up to you, what do you like.

Beaches: Phuket

Culture: Bangkok and north of Thailand

Food: everywhere

massage: all places

Bangkok is AMAZING! The nightlife is the best in the world. If you want my advice go to Soi 33, Soi Cowboy, and Nana plaza. Talk to the girls, drink, and have fun. Avoid paying the girls for "services" as you may end up getting sick. If you must take a girl back with you take her from one of the high end gogo bars and please please please use a condom! Avoid street walkers - with them you are likely to get robbed, drugged, or beat up. You are also more likely to get a disease.

-Check her ID - subtract 543 from the Thai year to get her birthdate in our year and be sure she is over 18. Thai prison is best avoided.

-Don't dine with "friendly" Thai people who you meet on the street or bar girls. You get crappy food and a huge bill. They get a kickback.

-Don't, no matter how good of a deal you think you are getting, buy anything - ESPECIALLY GEMS - to resell for a profit at home. It is a scam.

-Avoid Pat Pong bars, but go for the night market!

-It is often better to just pay if you get cheated (bill padding etc). Don't risk problems with the police for a few dollars. You may not come out the winner and it is a huge risk for a few bucks!

Don't be discouraged! I'm talking about the pitfalls so that you can avoid them! Bangkok is amazing! Knowing the scams and dangers makes it even more exciting, and if you get taken don't let it ruin your time. Keep in mind that the money you lose may go a long way towards feeding someones family. Have fun but don't go crazy!

If you choose Phuket, be sure to ask a lot of questions before signing up for a dive trip. We spent over an Hour driving around picking up people from other hotels before boarding the boat. Almost 2 hours getting to a so-so dive spot with some kind of tiny stinging things in the water. Afte a little over an hour the boat bought us back big waste of time.

The best places to dive are in the S Pacfic and none that I know of have good nightlife. Thailand has great nightlife but only soso diving.

So if you want great diving go to Fiji, New Guinea, Micronesia, Indonesia etc and bring your own nightlife with you. If your diving experience has only been in the Carabean, then you probably will be happy with Thailand.

Make sure you stop by the marketplace and each the favorite local snack... deep fried scorpions and other bugs.

Sawadee!

Phuket will be a good choice, I have been there twice and love it, Phi Phi Island for diving will be good too.

i know there is three website for sightseeing you can try that www.sightseeingbangkok.com www.sightseeingpattaya.com and www.sightseeingphuket.com

How much would it cost in AUD for a standard holiday for one week in Thailand (not including airfares)?

I dont want to stay any where flash or any where terrible...just middle of the road and I want to travel around Thailand a bit.

i you are going soon,low season,makes a big difference.i will work it out in baht.good room 1000 baht no more breakfast all you can eat dinner all you can eat 120+120baht=240+1000=1240 lunch off food cart=60 baht=1300 baht you are stll under $50 a day that is just basic,do you drink are you going to have a lady are you buying presents for family,a lot of variables.i can go 3 times a year some days spend $5 others i spend a lot.you could do it on $100 au a day better if you can allow $150 you will have no worries

I travel to Thailand as much as possible on a fairly tight budget.

My daily allowance for cheap accommodation, breakfast, dinner couple of beers and a moped to get around on is $30 to $40 aud per day.

That figure does not include train and coach fares, or extra activities along the way.

When you say not too terrible, my accommodation is usually a fan room, sometimes air conditioned.

If you live like a local eg, eat local food, then it can be a very cheap holiday.

If you prefer a little more comfort for your accommodation, then you should add an extra $10 to $15 aud to your budget.

If your only there for seven days I cant see you touring around too much.

Why not spend most of your week in a smaller area, at least you have something to go back for.

Either way you will have a great time, Thailand is a fantastic country with beautiful,friendly people.

Have a great trip.

BULL---- with 1200 you could live like a king for one week,that is more than enough.been to Thailand four times in the last year and never spent that amount in a week and i party hard.

i think aud1200 would be sufficient. that will include food and some shopping too

How many and what are the holiday days in thailand?

Usually about 15 days in a year. If you use your own computer and using Microsoft Outlook, you can even install Thai holidays into your calendar.

Any government site will also announce the holiday including Bank of Thailand for Banking holidays. This is for 2009:

1. Thursday 1 January New Year's Day

2. Monday 9 February Makha Bucha Day

3. Monday 6 April Chakri Day

4. Monday 13 April Songkran Festival

5. Tuesday 14 April Songkran Festival

6. Wednesday 15 April Songkran Festival

7. Friday 1 May National Labour Day

8. Tuesday 5 May Coronation Day

9. Friday 8 May Wisakha Bucha Day

10. Wednesday 1 July Mid Year Closing Day

11. Tuesday 7 July Asarnha Bucha Day

Effective from B.E. 2550 onwards, the Asarnha Bucha Day is prescribed as a holiday, in replacement of the Buddhist Lent Day

12. Wednesday 12 August H.M. the Queen's Birthday

13. Friday 23 October Chulalongkorn Day

14. Monday 7 December Substitution Day of H.M. the King's Birthday

(On Saturday 5 December)

15. Thursday 10 December Constitution Day

16. Thursday 31 December New Year 's Eve

Is there anything amazing i can do from 8/6-3/7/06 on holiday in Thailand?

I'm going on holiday for a monthin June and would like things that maybe aren't too well known but amazing to do in Thailand for 2 people. Would like it to be quiet romantic and not too expensive

South Islands are beautiful and romantic but I'm an elephant lover and always stay at the Elephant park outside of Chiang Mai...The accommodations are rustic but wonderful and if you have the slightest interest in elephants..You will find this place HEAVEN. Lek the owner is an angel and the baby elephants are the cutest! I have pictures but I don't know how to post them here. I took my 9 year old granddaughter for Christmas there and she said it was the best Christmas ever and playing with the baby elephants was the the most fun thing she'd ever done...Hope this helps...Can't wait to go back there..

Go to Sirrocco (a bar) at the top of State Street tower for a drink at sunset. Banyan Tree rooftop is also a good bet

What is the cheapest way to holiday in Thailand?

Get your meals from street vendors, stay in rooms without air conditioning, and get around via tuk tuk or songthaew. If you follow those general rules you will find that you can get by on very little.

As far as shopping goes, I have some tips for bargaining:

I always look at the item and figure the cost back into my currency (US dollars). Then I ask myself "what is the most (in dollars) I would want to pay for that?". Then I figure the cost back to baht (or whatever currency). So that is my "top price". I then make an offer that I expect the merchant to refuse, usually 60-75% below their starting point. We go back and forth until a satisfactory price has been reached, typically 50% of the original asking price. Saying that you have seen the same item in another store for less is a good tactic, as well as beginning to walk away from the deal. Another strategy is to shop with a friend who acts like they are trying to talk you out of buying whatever it is. If you are buying more than one item in a store you can usually negotiate a discount for quantity/volume. Never show the merchant how interested you really are in an item, and always point out flaws or poor quality. Keep in mind your "top price" and never go over... Then you won't have any regrets!

1. Find a budget airline that flies to Thailand and around the Islands in Thailand. I can recommend www.tigerairways.com, www.airasia.com and www.jetstar.com. They have promos every now and then so better check the sites from time to time.

2. Stay in hostels and guest houses. There are alot all over Thailand. You can share a dorm or a room with other travellers. I have stayed in 3 in Thailand and it's pretty safe and fun too!!!

3. Try street food. They are everywhere and very cheap.

4. Tuk-tuks are expensive. You can always use the bus and skytrain to get around.

cab??

Travel by bus or train,.. If you dont have a lonely planet travel book that lists hotels from top to basic you can say to a Tuk Tuk driver "Bai Loong Lamb *** noy, Mai pang" literally, go small hotel not expensive..

Eat at road side vendors carts, they usually can provide a stool to sit on.

North East Thailand is the less visited and so it is the less expensive.. Udon Thani is nice, as is Nong Kai

Travel here is quite reasonable and cheap lodging and decent street food can be had - - maybe the best bet is to head for Kao Sarn Road where the backpackers stay in bkk and hook up w/info from there..

it depends how long you want to stay.for 1 -2 weeks try

package with travelmood.com it starts with £600

Beg

Thailand holiday planning?

I am thinking of planning a family holiday to thailand in which we spend 2-3 nights in bangkok, then we go on to where? I like the islands of Phi phi best from my research so far. Can I fly there or do i have to take a boat? If i have to take a boat can i go from Krabi rather then Phuket?

I don;t like overally commercialised hectic areas so Phi phi sounds wonderful.

Mom,

I hope the answer was your son came to his senses and decided to do the family vacation thing instead of running off on his own.

If you have never been to Thailand, check out www.visualthailand.com which is commercial free and has 1000's of photos of all the attractions you will want to visit.

This way you can see with your own eyes what you will want to visit when you come and thus you will be able to see some places you might not want to visit?

Family holidays are always special and you need to find the attractions that will appeal to the family as a group.

I suggest the Grand Palace for sure and Wat Po for sure for siteseeing, Siam Ocean World for Asias largest aquarium (indoors and airconditioned so a good afternoon choice), venture up to the top of the Baiyoke Skytower some evening so that you can see the whole city of Bangkok all lit up. If you plan on going to the Baiyoke Skytower, you can go in the afternoon and shop at Pratunam, one of the best places for tourists shopping before evening.

There is always shopping if you are there on the weekend at the Chatuchak Market, and a host of other places.

The Dusit Zoo is very nice, and depending on the age of your kids, Dreamworld is nice (Thailands mini answer to Disneyland).

Out an hour or so from Bangkok is Nakon Nayok which has many natural waterfalls. You can rent a taxi for a whole day for 1500 baht which will take you around to all the waterfalls and wait as long as you want at each one. Be cautious of the rainy season and flash floods.

Ayutthaya is the former capital of Thailand and 45 minutes from Bangkok, a must see. Not only can you tour by riding elephants, you can see the ruins of Ayutthaya when Burma attacked Thailand 300 or 400 years ago and burnt the place to the ground. See some excellent photos here http://www.visualthailand.com/jalbum_ayutthaya/index.html

As far as the beach, I have to agree with Nowhereman. Pi Pi is way overpriced and too touristy.

You may want to get on the internet and check out Koh Chang, which is close to Bangkok, reasonably priced compared to Pi Pi or Krabi and offers lots for the family to do from the beach, to swimming in the waterfalls, etc.

My favorite beach, away from it all is Koh Lipe.

The www.visualthailand.com website is a wealth of information, all commercial free and unbiased from people that live in Thailand, and they highlight and showcase the best places all over Thailand.

With actual photos of all attractions, you cannot go wrong doing your research here.

Thailand is a super place for a family vacation but I have talked to many, many families that were disappointed because they did not get to see anything but the over-touristy things.

I think the best thing you can do in your research is go over all the FAQ, stories and photos at www.visualthailand.com

This will guarantee to make the choices you pick a success with you and your family and there will be no hidden surprises or dislikes.

Good luck in your planning and your trip. It will be a once in a lifetime adventure for sure

we are going to Krabi in september we are staying at the sheraton beach resort, 5star and it has its own private beach adn elephant, very un-commercialised!

we usually go to the maldives or seychelles which are equally lovely!

if you fly to bangkok and then it is a flight to krabi airport of around an hour

phi phi is also lovely but further and more hectic

Please visit www.holidaypartner.org

and contact to Mr. USTUNDAG, he will help you on your needs in Thailand at bes price with best service.( including transfers and guiding )

they can arrange all your needs in Thailand. It is partner of company i am working in and all our customers coming back satisfied

go to this site, its full of very good information and people there who have experienced where you want to go.

http://www.offthebeatentrack.net/

Hi, I can see that you are planning this holiday for the family, but how many days do you have altogether? Which part of the year will you be planning to travel? This is not your first trip to Thailand, so what are the places that you had visited before? To help you plan your trip,will need to know what kind of interest your family has. What do you all want to do for the holiday, just relaxing, bit of shopping, bit of sightseeing, bit of culture? All these info can allow us to provide you with more direct inputs for your planning, rather than giving you generic plans of what you can do.

For a start, the Thai Tourism website at hhtp://www.tourismthailand.org has all the information you want on the various provinces, as well as the attractions and also places that you can stay. Browse through the sites for information, there will be enough to help you plan the the stay.

As for Koh Phi Phi, it is located in the province of Krabi, so it will be closer to travel from Krabi. There are other options, besides Koh Phi Phi, there are other islands and beaches which are just as scenic, especially in Krabi town and the prices are lower than in Koh Phi Phi. Just a thought.

There are other scenic options in the northern part of Thailand if you like. Cultural options in the northeast. Much more to Thailand than just the beaches.

You can contact me for more info if you like at thaitourinfo@yahoo.com. Happy holidays.

Hi,you cant fly down to PP island,its too small (and all the better for it)The D'Ma hotel in Bangkok is really good about 2500 bht for a family suite +66 026500288.In all honesty I wouldn't stay in BKK long unless you are a culture buff.I would do one day sightseeing and one day shopping then leave.Thats just me,cities aren't my thing.Next go to Koh Samui,as you like quiet try out Choengmon Beach.PS Villa is ok. Slightly rough round the edges but typically Thai,very quiet and laid back.If you want a bit of night-life it's only 10 minutes taxi into Chaweng,cost you about 4 quid.

After Samui I'd take the bus/ferry down to Krabi or Phuket.You could fly,but where's the fun in that?It'll take all day on the bus but you do get a ferry ride to blow out the cobwebs(dont worry about the sea being rough)Tickets are available everywhere and are hassle free,you don't need to be an expert traveller,the bus drivers mate looks after you (remember one man and his dog?)

When you go past Tesco in Suratthani give us a toot.Good Luck, oh by the way did you sort out your son?

Well planned!

I highly recommend that you purchase this book. It was indispensible when planning my trip to Thailand last year, and it was equally helpful when I was actually in the country.

First I would recommend at least 3 days or 4 days in Bangkok, lots to see here. As for Phi Phi, it's nice but I perfer Krabi. You need to get to Phi Phi by boat from either Krabi or Phuket. Either a speed boat or large commerical boat. Krabi is closer to Phi Phi then Phuket but maybe only by an half hour travel time. I would recommend going to Krabi either by plane or bus, spend a night or two and arrange you boat trip to Phi Phi with one of the travel agents at either your hotel or on the strip. Then you can arrange a boat to Phuket and spend a day or two before leaving. Hope you have a good trip and your son is happy now.

You have to get a ferry to Phi Phi,you can take a boat from Krabi or Phuket, It cost about 350baht.

Phuket and Phi Phi are both very hectic and over rated. Krabi is lovely, and so is Koh samui.. Can fly to both these places from Bagkok. Bangkok is a great city, but a million things to do. Do a lot of research so you dont miss out on anything. Have a great time.

I am spending a holiday staying with a family in Thailand, what would be a good gift to give them?

I am from England and I am spending a week in Thailand with a Thai family for an authentic experience. I want to give them a gift as they are kind enough to let me stay with them. But I have no idea what to give as a present because of the difference in culture. Please help!

I am from Thailand. I think giving money would be an insult to your Thai host. A gift like toys or clothes is more appropriate. Money is probably the last on my gift list.

Giving money is certainly an insult to Thai, you'd better find some souvenirs such as picture of your country (or anything related to your home) they can put on the wall or something they can put on the shelf (dolls, etc.) or soccer T-shirt.

"Treat your guests and let them feel at home" That's what the Thai culture is no matter who you are and where you come from. If they welcome to your home then they will try their best to make you feel at home without expectation for anything in return. Small souvenir would be enough to express your gratitude.

Welcome to Thailand.

I think you should take them out to dinner or cook a nice meal by yourself. It could be Thai food or your original English food.

Thais love to eat and that way, they can try something new, too.

(Thai food cooked by 'farang') =) Ask them first if they're OK with that. Make it a farewell party, if you could.

Or enlarge pictures of you and the whole family, put them in nice frames for them to hang in their house.

When you went back, you should send them Thank you card (write some Thais if you could), and call occasionally.

I hope you have a great time staying in Thailand.

=)

A good bottle of Whiskey is always appreciated. That's a very common gift for whatever amongst Thais. Of course something from England would be nice, so maybe a good bottle of scotch. Don't be dissapointed if they pour it over ice and add soda water to it though.

As for money, you don't have to give it directly. Go to a restaurant with them and pick up the check. Depending on your age/status they might expect that anyway.

Depending where the family live will decide what to buy. If they live in a big city they more or less have access to most Western things. If they live in a rural area get good quality parfume for the women get a bottle of cheap whiskey for the men and sweets for the kids. Also money is always appreciated everywhere. Put it in a envelope and give individually. You'll proberly find that the present you've bought them you could have bought cheaper here in Thailand anyway. If you have any old clothes that no longer fit these will also make a good presents. Take no notice of the idiots saying "do not give money as Thais will lose face". Bulls**t, money is greatly appreciated. Beware of getting ripped off. Thais don't seem to lose face when they do this to Farangs, it seems to be a national pastime.

maibok is right. DO NOT give money. This makes them "lose face" and implying that they are so poor they need charity. People in Thailand are not all poor and destitute. A lot of people DO live a modern life as well.

IF you know they have children - toys will be good. Something from your country that would otherwise not be available is good. Remember that most things from overseas are avaialble in Thailand, so think of something that an average Thai won't get. Customary gift usually involved fruits but of course you can not brnig this into the country. Any souvenir item from England as a momento is appropriate.

Some suggestions: box of good chocolate or toffee, confectionery, wine, small household decorative item, small dolls of traditional english costume. Think of someting a tourist to England would buy.

Hope this help you with some idea

In Thai and Buddhist tradition, offering money is considered as an insult to the host. However, if the family you will stay with are poor or have fewer resources, you could just buy some groceries for the household, which they will surely appreciate. You can take a look around the kitchen to see what they need but most probably it will be a bag of Thai jasmine rice, dried fish, various kinds of sauces, spices etc, which are pretty inexpensive in Thailand.

Since you wish to take them a gift as well, suggest you take something typically English. For example, there are excellent souvenirs of London that are available for foreign tourists. A couple of these souvenirs, English biscuits and any other food that will not perish during your journey.

Hi, Thais are typically curious about foreigners and things from overseas. Import tax is quite high, so most Thais are familiar with local products.

They will be curious about your country. If you can bring them something that is unique to England, it will be nice. Souvenirs like baseball cap with England logo, typical English cured ham, home-made jams and such, simple English story books, etc. I hope you get my drift. These are what will appeal to them. You can try having a set of your currency for them too if you like. Maybe a coin set as souvenir for the kids.

Also, when you get to Thailand, buy a fruit basket for the family. A bottle of whisky during meals will also be appreciated. Meal time is a socialising time for most families.

If you like to contribute some money, do it indirectly, like offering to pay for marketing / grocery shopping as your contribution for your stay. Not outright cash. This should do too.

I guess you will be doing some visiting while you are there, just bring back some interesting souvenirs for the family once in a while. Won't go wrong there too.

Over all, stay with a smile on your face all the time and as you say you are there for an authentic experience, remember not to say no to anything they offer you. Even if you do not think you may not like something, like certain food, just accept and eat a bit rather than reject outright. The family will try to make you feel welcome as much as they can, so they will be watching you quite closely to ensure that they do not upset you in any way. This is typical Thai hospitality for their guest, so, smile through your stay please.

Common Billy. Most Thais live above poverty line. All of them have sufficient intake of nutrition and if the family can take on a British person for holiday staying, they should be well off. I've seen more Ferrari, Porsche, and Lamborghini in Sukhumvit road more than around Park lane!

A token of your thought represent something that England is famous for would be a good gift to a Thai family. Generally, if you ask me, a model of London bus or anything inexpensive that England is original for will do just fine.

Just drop in at any malls and buy a gift basket it's usually a mix of healthy food. And/Or you could drop in at any bank and get a cash gift voucher made in that persons name for the value you want to give (Thats giving money but in a respectable way).

You should do it during this songkran as it's the season to show respect to loved ones specially elders..

Cheers..

I love going to Thailand,First of all I think thats very sweet and thoughtful of you .Get them something from your own country ,like confectionery,nicely packed chocolate or teacakes or nice English Tea set for them to remembers you when they look at that glass cabinet of theirs.

I kept the set of cutleries with Brazillian flag given by my friend from Brazil on the shelf as decoration, everytime I look at it,it brings so much joy ,just to think of her stay here.

Hmm..just read the other comments, and somebody below said about giving something English.

Thats a great idea!

They are aware of Thailandish stuff, they see it every day of their lives.

Maybe buy something special that represents our country.

The best place to buy something like that would be London.

Also you could buy a really nice photo album and have some pictures taken with them. I'm sure they'll appreciate that.

I agree with the others who said don't give money, what an insult that would be. kids here love English football if the family have kids why not something from Man U, Liverpool or Chelsea.

Billy J - have you been to Thailand? That would be an insult.

The answer depends on what sort of family is it you are staying with? Rich, poor, middle class, in the country, in the city......?

There are very rich people in thailand as well as poor. Do some discrete research first. Do they have kids? How old?

Possible gifts could range from

football souvenirs for boys

western whisky for dad

paying for a meal in a resturant

perfume for mum

sweets ( Kanom in Thai)

If possible something that is not available in Thailand so they can show their friends, colleagues and say this is from.....

Why not get something typically English? A present from your home x

Most Thai people are very poor and money would be a blessing. Not a normal gift but I lived there and understand how they feel. A few dollars to you is a lot to them.

Well...I'm already insulted by the first answerer. Poor or not, the Thais are not that money-greedy!! If you don't know them personnally...get something that represent yourself, your culture or your country. Or if you can find out if they have children, gifts for the young will be lovely.

Have a pleasant trip. I'm sure you'll love Thailand.

Real ale!!! Proper English Bitter!!!!

Just don't give them a headache will be more than enough!

Or give them something they could use to earn money, like tools or something.

Travelled to Thailand on holiday from Australia lots now want to get a job?

how hard is it to find work in logistics/warehousing/transport seem to me there's only eng/teaching jobs available,

Nope, Construction job in Thailand is available for warehouse management. As material controller, logistic control. Etc.

When on holiday or travelling in Thailand what is the best meothod of carrying money?

Travelling around Thailand for a month, not sure how to carry my cash.would you reccomend, travellers cheques (if so in us dollars or Sterling( i'm English).) Or electronic travellers cheque card etc. Is it wise to bring my debit card too?

a wallet

I personally use travellers cheque in us dollars.... safer than carrying round cash and cards.... and easily replaced...

Easily changed in Hotels and even the small remote islands have Bureau changes...

I also take my credit card as most hotels like to have one as a guarantee for the room..... mini bar etc...

You'll love it!!

It is not wise to carry too much cash on you . I'm not suggesting that in Thailand you are more in danger than in other countries . I prefer to carry my bank Visa debit card or equally a Mastercard . I am sure a travellers cheque card would be equally good , have a few travellers cheques as a backup too . Thailand has ATM machines everywhere and it's best to draw money when you need it . Draw money from the ATM at the airport on arrival . It is best not to carry all your cards and money together in one wallet . Unless you are backpacking really roughing it , you shouldn't have any trouble .

Carry in their thai baht. its pretty safe.

debit card.

some banks will charge you but it's not that much.

you can use the atm everywhere - quite safe for travelers.

I did it - not too much cash in hand.

I only changed the € 100 bill to Thai Bath (and all of a sudden my wallet is quite full of money).

And that's enough to pay your hotel's bill, food etc for at least a few days.

use your credit cards, keep only a bit of money in your pocket and some extra in a money belt or in your sock.

If you do happen to fall victim to a pickpocket, have some back up.

Its a very safe place, but anything can happen

Dont ever flash a wad of cash in public

There are plenty of ATMS in any big town, so why carry too much cash? You can use the Post office for 0% fees or you can use your debit card abroad, but the rates for these vary and are likely to increase soon.

The electronic travelers check card from VISA or AMEX is probably your best bet. You can use these to get cash at ATM's and if it gets stolen you can get at least some of it replaced if you call it in.

Best is to get several in only moderate denominations and don't carry them all at once.

The ATM may charge you a small service fee to get at your cash, but you will still pay less than the exchange into Baht that a bank or the ripoff guys at the airport will charge you. Plus by getting only the money you need out, you have a bit of a currency rate fluctuation hedge.

Be sure to keep enough Baht on hand to leave at the airport, because they make you pay an exit fee and they only take Baht.

ATM's are EVERYWHERE and offer a good exchange rate but check with your bank---there may be a charge for using another banks ATM. Money Exchanges are all over and many are open all hours and you can cash traveler's checks at them but you need your passport to do so.

Have an international ATM card and some cash in wallet. You can withdraw money easily at any ATMs in and around the country when you need it. Highly convenient. And many shops do accept credit cards. So you need not carry much cash on your person.

If you're a British, think of Thailand as going to New York. Everything works here the same. Major Credit, Debit, TC, except for the Cheque Card all work in Thailand. For some jewellery shops, you can even use your personal cheque if the amount is not so high and the stores are desperate to sell.

Carry some Thai denomination with you for taxi and impulse purchase, cab fare or petty things. There’s also Western Union and Money Gram networks that operate here so you don’t really need to worry about the shortage of money: that is if you have someone to send them to you. ATM is everywhere in Bangkok and available in town centre outside of Bangkok.

Have fun.

don't bother with T/C's especially $ ones.Take a small amount of Baht for immediate use in Thailand and then have a couple of ATM cards.ATM's are everywhere,maybe not so available in rural areas,but certainly everywhere you are likely to go.You will normally get a better exchange rate in Thailand than at home,so don't take a lot of cash in any form.Visa cards are your best bet with the best choice of ATM's.You can use your debit card for larger purchases or indeed a credit card but shops will add % which is technically illegal in Thailand but if you don't play ball .....So far I have never been ripped off using my credit card,but be careful,especially when your guard is down on holiday

Incidentally ,if you're with nationwide you wont be charged for using your debit/atm in Thailand(worth opening an account b4 yougo)

I went to Bangkok, Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai last year and I felt safe but it is best to be streetwise!

You may as well pin it to your forehead as you will definitely get ripped off if youre white anyway, very racist country, have one price for Thais, and another supposedly for tourists, but ive seen japs and koreans get into places for Thai price, when foreigner price is generally 10x more . To my mind that means Asians only for discount. Don't give me the reply that it is a poor country cos it aint ! Only government policies mean they have poor communities, and by the same token the Thai prime minister who is extremely wealthy would pay 10x less to go to the Zoo than an unemployed white on holiday. Disgusting racism.

Money belt

We took sterling and changed it in small amounts daily. there are exchange boothes on every main street.They love the british pound, not fussed about the dollar. Must be clean notes will not change dirty ones. Cash machines are every where so take a card if you dont want to carry a lot of cash. Dont drop litter.Find or arrested on spot.Esp cig ends police very keen.

i'd opt for travellers cheques, in us$. with the exchange rate being so great against the dollar recently you should get great exchange and the us$ is always so readily acceptable in places like thailand.

enjoy it, you'll love it out there.

Thailand is a lot safer than england.

Take sterling and cash it in Thailand , the rate wll be alot better.

Dont bother with dollars the rate is low.

If you use a card or an ATM machine you will be recieving your banks or visas exchange rate which is a considerable amount lower than what you would recieve in Thailand.

Change a little at the airport in Bangkok or where ever,

Then find a money exchange , there is a good one called super rich in bangkok.

went thailand 4 month last yr, opened an Nationwide building society account b4 i went as they dont charged u NOTHING for using there debit cards aboard unlike most other banks that rip you off. Nationwide always came top in surveys of best ways of taking out ur money abroad, post office do a good deal aswell.

i only use my nationwide card when i go abroad. have a good time m8.

PLEASE HELP! Just about to book a holiday to Thailand 6th may till 16th in Pattaya - Is it going to rain alot?

So many sites keep telling me different.

Please help.. how much will it rain? Will it be enough to spoil my holiday.. If i want rain i mgiht aswell stay in London! :p

If it rains, it's a tropical rain. It will be nice and hot then you'll get a shower that last 30 minutes - 1 hour and then the sun returns and becomes humid. The average amount of rain on May 6 is .23 cm and it continues to increase to .34 cm on May 16.

May 6 Avg low: 27° Avg hi: 33° Avg precip: 0.23 cm

May 7 Avg low: 27° Avg hi: 33° Avg precip: 0.24 cm

May 8 Avg low: 27° Avg hi: 33° Avg precip: 0.25 cm

May 9 Avg low: 27° Avg hi: 33° Avg precip: 0.26 cm

May 10 Avg low: 27° Avg hi: 33° Avg precip: 0.27 cm

May 11 Avg low: 27° Avg hi: 33° Avg precip: 0.28 cm

May 12 Avg low: 27° Avg hi: 33° Avg precip: 0.29 cm

May 13 Avg low: 27° Avg hi: 33° Avg precip: 0.3 cm

May 14 Avg low: 27° Avg hi: 33° Avg precip: 0.32 cm

May 15 Avg low: 27° Avg hi: 33° Avg precip: 0.33 cm

May 16 Avg low: 27° Avg hi: 33° Avg precip: 0.34 cm

Enjoy your trip.

I'm not sure when there'll be a monsoon this year. Usually, rainy starts since May till the middle of October. But everything seems messed up, can never tell.

BUT trust me I've been in Pattaya once in May, it rained all day, BUT not (almost) all the time like in London. It won't spoil your day and yeah it usually doesn't rain at noon or night (dawn and evening frequently, sometimes in afternoon).

Anyway, if you just want to have a wonderful time with blue sea and sunny sky, don't go to Pattaya! (It's more amazing at night I think)

There will be a fair amount of rain but it will not stop you having a fantastic holiday. It tends to pour down for a few hours but is dry within an hour. Remember it will still be warm. I have been on the beach in Pattaya when it has started pouring. Just carried on as normal, people still in swimming or sitting under the many umbarellas drinking and eating.

yeah it will rain but probably only an hour about 3 oclock in the afternoon is usual there plenty of sun to be had too if pattaya is not your cup of tea then catch the baht bus about 35p to jomtiem where the beaches are longer and wider have a good time

If it does rain its not the same as the uk,you have lovely hot sun then a sudden downpour then sun again.Only happens about once a day.Plent of hot sun enjoy.

confirm

http://spa-thai-guide.blogspot.com/

There is a Section on Thai Weather here

http://www.thaivisa.com/

Is it possible to have a holiday in THAILAND with 10 EUROS a day ?

oN A BUDGET .BACKPACKING.

aLL, INCLUDING A MASSAGE FROM TIME TO TIME.

tRAVELLING AROUND OR STAYING AT ONE PLACE FOR LONGER.

If it's a holiday, no, it's impossible. There is no reason to come all the way to Thailand to have crappy life. Save a little more and enjoy your holiday in the land of smiles.

1 EURO = 46.4 BAHT

10 EURO = 464 BAHT ( FOR 1 DAY)

300 EURO = 13,920 BAHT ( FOR 1 MONTH)

Only one case you can live for 10 Euro/day , you have to stay only one place for longer

Home for rent 5,000 baht/month, may be less than if you can share or find your roommate.

Food 3 meals/day 150 baht 4,500 baht/month

Economical food 25-30 baht/dist 2,250-2,700 B./month

Bus fare depend on you, solf drink, beer, liquer are also

You can live but have to much saving but it's worth to risk.

if it's around EUR15-20, I could help u. But it's not in Khaosan area. The one I mentioned is in center of Bangkok, Siam square area.

Guest house in Soi Kasemsan 1, opposite to Mahboonklong(MBK) Mall. Price THB 700-1200 per night.

Not possible on 10 Euros a day, you might be able to find a cheap hostel and have a bowl of noodles or two, but that's about it. They don't usually check, but they may even refuse you entry if you don't have what immigration officials consider sufficient funds for the length of your stay. I think it may be best to wait until you have considerably more money than that before you come, you'll have a much better time with more money than 10 Euros a day to spend, preferably a lot more.

Change it to 15 Euros a day. You'll be one of those smelly backpackers that nobody really likes probably, but you'll have fun. You can stay in Khao San in a tiny, tiny place for 100 baht a night. Hostels are not really the thing in Thailand, it's more finding tiny guesthouse places like that, that are cheap, and camping on the beach if you want to live on that budget.

The airfare will definitely cost you.

You can walk around Bangkok on foot... but beware of bad weather (hot or wet weather), admission charges and traveling fares (bus, cab, tuk-tuk).

By the way, 10 Euros will get you about 400 - 500 bahts, depending on exchange rates. Food will cost about 120 - 300 bahts (3 meals), water will cost 30 - 60 bahts (3 bottles), accommodation will cost around free - 200 baht (stay at friend's place or a hostel).

It really depends on your planning and info-gathering.

Overall, everybody is teling you to don't do it not just yet. Save more money. It is the feel good factor even if you don't spend you will have it. OK now for a few cheap tips. Buy a map from Asia Books that gives you the routes of the buses both air and now air conn buses. That will save you time.

For Bangkok. I hear newsiam.net (number 2 is clean) always eat on the street but get to know the Thai name for what your eating then it will be less. you can get a place outside Bangkok for 3,000 a month again you have to travel to get to centre about 14 baht a day on buses.

Not possible, unless you are not planning to sleep in a guesthouse at least. Meals wise, will be about 3 euros for 3 meals already, massage will cost about 5 euros, so what do you hope to achieve with the remaining 2 euros?

Plan a budget of at least 20 euros still possible.

Yes dear, but I wouldn't call it a holiday.

No, they wont take Euros.

possible but not recomended save your money and come next year when you have more money, also likely first time here travelling on such a low budget you could hit some snag like medical etc, then you will be like the loads i have seen selling everything they have on Khao sarn road to get food to eat

If you rent a place (per month) off the beaten tourist track, and only eat local food twice per day, then you can live on EUR 400 per month.

But that will leave you next to nothing for travel, massage, fun, and etc.

thais do,but not much of a holiday.....there are some shacks for rent on Lamai beach in Samui for 200bht/day.......nice

i think your budget is too small - even if you slept on the beach.

it's possible, but not very smart. don't bother coming until you can save more cash.

- In Bangkok Kao San guest house

- Walk or Public Non A/C bus

- street food or at supermarket (Tops at MBK Mall. Apply & get instant discount card ) buy fish or chicken (class A protein and have it deep fried at counter at no charge.Also fruits and pop

- Massage at Healthland across the river in Pinklao

- Chiangmai same as above, buy food and get it cooked at the local markets. i.e. eat better than street food portions for same $

- Bargain down to 50% for serviced based purchases like the odd day tour to floating markets, temples, Kawai river.

- Eat small portions more frequently or the heat will get you!

- Use no frills regional airlines like Air Asia, trains and buses.

Well, let's break it down.

Right now the exchange rate is about 1 Euro to 44 or 45 Thai Baht. That would give you about 450 or so a day to spend.

Food: You're probably going to be eating from street vendors on that budget. That's actually fine - Thai street vendors often have fresher and tastier food than some restaurants - and it's usually very cheap. Prices vary by location and (obviously) the dish, but you can usually get something like a dish of Pad Thai noodles for 30 to 50 Baht. Snacks (a piece of fruit, a banana pancake) are even cheaper - you might get a slab of fresh pineapple for as little as 10 baht. Ordering several courses or a really exotic dish. might run you as much as 60-70 Baht, but that's still very cheap. A McDonald's Big Mac will run you that much in Thailand. So, let's figure between 150-200 baht/day for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Drinks: Thailand can be as hot as a plate of red curry noodles, and you're gonna get thirsty. I haven't been to Thailand in recent years, but IIRC, a beer will run you between 80-100 baht each at a bar. Bottled water is probably cheaper and soda pop is definitely cheap. I checked a couple fast food places in Bangkok and right now a small soda will run you about 30 baht. Street vendors will often carry bottled water and sell soda-in-a-bag (they pour the soda into plastic bag you can carry instead of a paper or styrofoam cup), though I'm not sure on prices. Leaving alcohol out of the equation, let's figure at least 80-100 baht a day to quench your thirst.

Lodging: Since you're looking at the backpacking route, you're probably thinking along the hostel route. I did a quick check, and most seemed to be in the 300-400 baht range, though a couple were much cheaper and a few were much higher. Here's a website that will help you find/book a place (prices are in U.S. dollars, btw).

http://www.hostels.com/en/th.html

Massage: I'm going to assume you mean legitimate Thai style massage instead of um, something else. You'll want to avoid the trendy spas in the hotels - they'll charge you near western masseuse rates. 150-200/baht per hour is a pretty fair rate in most non-tourist hotel places - about 4 or 5 Euros per hour.

Traveling: That all depends on how far you want to travel in the country itself. For getting around town, Bangkok has an excellent and very inexpensive "skytrain" system, and most places will have taxis and Tuk Tuk drivers. Two warnings - if you take a Tuk Tuk, negotiate the price beforehand. If you take a taxi, politely insist that the driver use the meter. On the budget you're planning, you can't afford to get scammed out of any baht.

Other: There's an endless array of things to see and do in Thailand: Muay Thai in Bangkok, Fishing and diving off Phuket, eco-jungle tours in Chiang Mai, etc. All of them are generally affordable...but honestly probably not on the budget you're working with.

Hope this helps a bit!

I would budget the following per day:

500 Baht - Super Budget - stank *** foeigner

2,000 Baht - Decent Budget - Average Falong

5,000 Baht - Good Budget - Hang out with the rich Thais