Destination – Thailand

My visit to Thailand included two stops: Bangkok and Pattaya Beach. Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, holds the essence of the Thai spirit, and is very much the heart of the country -- geographically, culturally and economically. Without a doubt, this fast-growing cosmopolitan metropolis has something to interest everyone. A little over two hours from Bangkok by comfortable, air-conditioned bus, Pattaya Beach, in Chonburi province on the east coast of the Gulf of Thailand, is the most famous of Thailand's beach destinations. April is the hottest month in Thailand; children have their school break from March to mid-May, as the weather is too hot. Thailand is celebrating the sixtieth anniversary of the reign of their king throughout 2006.

Thailand Attractions

Bangkok
Bangkok is a steamy tropical city, with mystery and adventure around every corner. It is a booming, modern capital, complete with gleaming skyscrapers and sky trains. It is a treasure trove of Siamese heritage and architecture, the product of centuries of culture and art. It all adds up to an unforgettable experience, and no trip to Thailand should be without a stop in Bangkok

My brief visit included a tour to the Grand Palace and home of the Emerald Buddha. After the Palace, we walked a little way to the pier and took a canal cruise. The canal is not at all clean but it was very interesting to see the diverse culture, from the poorest to the richest lifestyles.

Thailand is the place for massages. We enjoyed a two-hour Thai massage at the Health Land Sathorn Spa and Massage. This feature can be included in tour packages for about $25. We later visited the Siam Niramit for a buffet dinner and a colourful show featuring lots of music and special effects, and even a few animals. Both the theatre and the spa are in the Silom region, a good tourist area about 45 minutes from the Siam City Hotel.

Pattaya
Pattaya is within easy reach of a dozen excellent, affordable golf courses, which have spectacular views and all the amenities. It is also home to numerous fully equipped tour operators offering scuba adventures at the nearby islands. The beach on Pattaya Bay itself is not ideal for water sports; however nearby Jomtien and Naklua beaches provide cleaner, less crowded venues for swimming, windsurfing, boating, and other sun-drenched fun in the warm, turquoise waters of the Gulf.

Pattaya is a resort town and very touristy. Mike's Mall is a good place to buy souvenirs. The Royal Garden Mall next to the Marriott Hotel is a little higher-end. The Thai people like to barter, so you'll have a good time shopping.

My trip to Pattaya included a visit to the Tiger Zoo, which was great fun. The elephants put on a well-rehearsed show and we all fed them bananas. Then we scurried past the alligator pens to the tigers. They have baby tigers, piglets and dogs all in the same pens. There are even adult tigers in pens with little pigs, and they were in no danger of being eaten. As they all grow up together, they stay friendly.

We also stopped at the Laem Chabang International Country Club. There are quite a few golf courses in this area, but this one looked much greener and well kept compared to others we passed. The dining room was packed and it is a very busy club. They have their own lodge on site and Jack Nicklaus designed the golf course.

Our beach day took place on Coral Island. We all bought flip-flops for a less than a dollar from the vendors on our way to the boat. The boat ride was about 20 minutes and the island was enjoyable: sandy beach, lunch bar and little market for shoppers. You could even have a massage on the beach. This day trip with lunch included was a bargain -- about $25 US.

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