Waterfalls on Doi Inthanon - Chiang Mai

Mae Ya Waterfall: The North of Thailand is famous for its many waterfalls and one of the most beautiful in Chiang Mai province is Nam Tok Mae Ya. This waterfall is thought to be the highest in Thailand and is well worth the extra effort to get there.

Nam Tok Mae Ya is a beautiful, fanning cascade, dropping down an ever-widening series of steps. The water tumbles down a 100 m cliff in a series of spectacular leaps and National Park officials estimate that the Mae Ya River plunges more than 250 m at this point. At the bottom is a cool pool where children can swim and enjoy the pleasant picnic area. It is without a doubt, a photographic favorite for most visitors.

The 14 km route to get to Nam Tok Mae Ya begins in Chom Thong village. Mini-buses labeled in English Doi Inthanon Park can be hired at either Chom Thong or Mae Klang for the trip to the summit; the cost is about 500 baht for the round trip.

Mae Klang Waterfall: The Nam Tok Mae Klang Waterfall lies 66 km southwest of Chiang Mai city at the foot of Doi Inthanon Mountain. This unusual waterfall has been visited by Thai people for many years and is easily Chiang Mai's most photographed waterfall. Visitors continue to come in large numbers on any sunny day in the year to swim or simply unwind in this beautiful natural setting.

The waterfall is reached via Highway 108 to km 57 (just 1 km before the village of Chom Thong). Turn right onto Highway 1009 and continue 8 km to where the road forks. Mae Klang is 300 m straight ahead. The summit road forks to the right, reaching Park Headquarters near km 31 and the summit of Doi Inthanon at km 48. Once there, the waterfall provides a picturesque setting for picnics and relaxation. The area is fast becoming popular with many international visitors as well as local Chiang Mai families who own homes along the riverside.

The rapids and waterfall spill over a wide exposure of granite and can be approached closely. Rocky paths climb up beside the 30 m high falls and if you reach the top there is a fine view. Visitors are asked to exercise caution around the waterfall area and while swimming either above or below the falls. There are food, drink and souvenir stalls at the entrance and below the main falls. Across the bridge are the beautifully laid out gardens of the northern branch of Wat Chai Monkon, a famous Bangkok temple. In the grounds is a spectacular chedi containing a lift. There is also an enormous Buddha statue made out of one piece of Canadian greenstone. A well-maintained trail leads up the side of the waterfall and continues to the Visitor Center and beyond.

Mae Sa Waterfall: The Nam Tok Mae Sa Waterfall is 26 km from Chiang Mai city and is located at km 7 on the Mae Rim - Samoeng Road. This eight-tiered delightful waterfall occupies a natural setting among gigantic towering trees and always impresses visitors.

Wachirathan Waterfall: Nam Tok Wachirathan waterfall is on the route to Doi Inthanon and is a thirty-minute drive from Nam Tok Mae Klang. It is a beautiful scenic spot for picnics and is reached by a short, easy trail from the parking area. Nam Tok Wachirathan tumbles down a granite escarpment, creating a misty veil of great beauty. Visitors should be very cautious, as three people have tragically fallen to their deaths while taking photographs.

Just a short distance on the main road beyond the waterfall is the small Karen hill tribe village of Ban Sop Had. If you turn right just past the bridge you will find the village a few hundred meters up the dirt access road.

Siriphum Waterfall: Access to the Nam Tok Siriphum Waterfall is via the road intersecting with the main summit road on Doi Inthanon at km 30.4. The waterfalls are actually twins: two parallel plumes named for His Majesty King Bhumibol and Her Majesty Queen Sirikit. An excellent view of the waterfalls can be enjoyed by walking along the track that forks left from the main road - just beyond the entrance to the guesthouse compound.

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Phangan Island (Ko Phangan)

Located just 12 km north of Samui, Phangan can be easily accessed by a half hour boat ride. Once it was just a backdoor neighborhood of Samui. But it is getting a new look.

Since Samui has begun to target up-market tourists, more and more backpackers and budget travelers have found the great hideaways here. It becomes increasingly attractive to other travelers who discover that Samui has nothing matching with their interests. Less expensive and less crowded are two main advantages experienced by backpackers. There are 160 places to stay around the190 square km of the island, at a cost of about 100 baht. Except for Rin Beach, many of the beaches are nearly deserted.

The island has two main attractive sites: Rin Beach and others. Rin Beach is a center for parties and hanging out while other beaches are tropical escapes with untouched nature and breath-taking scenes. Phangan has long been famed for its astonishing beauty which attracted King Rama IV to make regular visits here. Thong Nai Pan, one of the top five of Thailand's best beaches, was his long time favorite.

There is not the full range of modern development and tourist entertainment like the atmosphere of Samui. Not to mention no airport, big resorts, hotels, or paved roads. But it is a real paradise for all the senses, with undamaged nature and raucous parties, which may seem to be a contradiction, but the island has a certain magnetic power which makes it magically possible.

Getting There: Speedboats leave Samui daily from Maenam and Bophut piers to Thongsala at 8.30 am at a cost of 250 baht and also leave Nathon at 12.00 am, then return from Thongsala at 10.30 am for the price of 150 baht.

Songserm Express operates express ferries from Thatong, Samui to Thongsala via Nathon. The ferries leave Thatong at 8.30 am, arrive at Nathon at 10.30 am, then leave Nathon at 11.00 am and arrive at Thongsala at 11.45 am. They also run a car ferry service from Kanom to Thongsala via Na Thon. The ferries leave Thongsala at 6.30 am, arrive Na Thon at 8.00 am, and reach Kanom at 9.30 am. The return trip from Kanom leaves at 6.00 pm, arrives Nathon at 7.30 pm and reaches Thongsala at 9.00 pm.

Longtail boats run from Maenam pier to Phangan at three main destinations: Rin Beach for 120 baht, Tien Beach for 150 baht and Thong Nai Pan for 200 baht.

For an alternative route, but a longer trip, you can take nightboats from Ban Don, Surat Thani to Thongsala. The boats leave at 10.00 pm and take six hours and a half for the price of 170 baht.

Getting Around: It's recommended to take a songtaew as it's the fastest and most convenient means of transportation on the island. Fares depend on the destination, but are not higher than 100 baht around the island. Or else you can hire a motorcycle which is pretty much more expensive depending on how great you are at bargaining. There is crowd of motorcycle taxis outside Bovy Supermarket near the pier at Thongsala.

The interesting beaches and natural attractions on the islands include:

Thongsala: Thongsala is the only main port and it is also the only town on Phangan, houseing most of the island's residents. It provides all kinds of necessary facilities you may need including banks, ATMs and a post office. Aside from that, there is not much of interest about the town, just a small under-developed Thai village with some construction in progress.

The town is busy during the day because crowds of tourists come and go. At least, if you have to hang out waiting for the boat, there is a line of restaurants along the road leading toward the pier. There are lots of alternative choices here to enjoy local and western style food. For a more entertaining moment, you can absorb the Thai art of boxing at a boxing stadium within Thongsala. Or there are a few karaoke restaurants that create a bouncing atmosphere. Tourists go wandering away from Thongsala at night and the local people are left with a quiet and sleepy town.

Rin Beach and Full Moon Parties: On the far southeast of Phangan, Hat Rin is the liveliest and craziest beach. It has been marked as "something different" from all other places in Thailand, and probably the world. It now has become a spot for a travelers' community whose members truly believe in hedonism.

Rin is composed of two beaches: sunrise on the east and sunset on the west. Sunrise beach is a wide stretch of white sand in a stunning curved bay while sunset beach is not really as nice. All ranges of accommodation from low budget to air-con bungalows are concentrated around the two beaches. There are no comfortable and luxurious five-stars hotels and resorts here as Rin's reputation is for cheap and wild living.

Rin Beach is the ideal for all kinds of pleasure that the young and young at heart are searching for. It is a venue for the world famous Full Moon Party happening every month on the sunrise beach. Hanging out, going to parties, meeting wild and weird people, matchmaking, listening to techno, garage, house music, marijuana, drugs and spiritual awakenings all can be experienced at Rin Beach. Hat Rin has all kinds of music to fit with everyone's tastes and you'll not be disappointed.

The party starts when the first gleam of golden moonlight touches the white sand. The beach is lighted up with thousands of lamps and is full of thousands of travelers until dawn. Have fun and get wild!!!

Thong Nai Pan Beach: Thong Nai Pan is a magnificent double bay which is split by a narrow cape creating two wide beaches of white sands: Thong Nai Pan Yai and Thong Nai Pan Noi.

As a major attraction for members of the Thai royal family, the beach has long been kept as a secret and hidden place away from the crowds. There is not much development going on around here and it has the old and authentic atmosphere of Thai beach village. You may have to put in some effort to go there, but it is well rewarded with perfect beaches and friendly people.

On the southern bay, Thong Nai Pan Yai, the bigger of the two, is the residence of nearly all the local population. The beach has a wide sandy beach and a small village encircled by coconut plantations. There are a few bungalow resorts along the beach, two shops and a few bars and restaurants and the locals own most of the businesses here. Thong Nai Pan Noi, the quieter of the two, is a magnificent long beach of white sands with coconut trees in the background and surrounded by mountains. There are plenty of beach huts and bungalows along the beach. Thong Nai Pan Noi is a good place for pleasurable swimming and snorkeling.

There are two ways of commuting to Thong Nai Pan. You can take a pick-up songtaew from Thongsala and it can be accessed by boats from Thongsala, Rin Beach and Maenam.

Yao Beach: On the west coast of the island, Hat Yao means Long Beach. It has almost one and a half kms of white sand with deep water making for good swimming. There are just a few basic and low budget bungalows on the beach, but a more comfortable and expensive resort is in the process of construction.

One main thing to be informed of is that Hat Yao is quite a laid back village, but under development. Once Hat Yao was quite difficult to reach because there was no proper paved road, but now the situation is better as the road from Thongsala to Hat Yao is almost finished. Not everywhere in Hat Yao has electricity yet. All the electricity used during a few hours each evening comes from the main generator. So no nightlife entertainment at all.

Than Sadet Waterfalls: Than Sadet Waterfalls means "Royal Stream" as many members of Thai royal family have made frequent visits here, including King Rama V, King Rama VII, and King Rama IX, the present king. For a confirmation, the three kings left their signature on the rocks below the falls. So it could be assumed that the waterfalls must have some sort of extraordinary beauty to attract even the rulers of the country to come for a vacation. The falls have been guaranteed and it's really worth it to prove it for yourself.

Situated at Thong Nang Village, you can reach it by taking the road from Ban Tai Village to Thong Nai Pan Beach. Then turn-off about halfway up the road and head east toward Sadet Beach at Thong Nang Village. The trail follows a river along which you can see a series of waterfalls.

Phaeng Forest Park Waterfalls: About halfway between Thongsala and Chalok Lam there's a turn-off heading to the waterfalls. The waterfalls themselves are worth a visit, but you can have some pleasure absorbing the magnificent nature and stunning viewpoints on the way. Uncountable coconut trees, pure white sands and deep blue sea colored with a bright blue sky can be seen from here. Along the trail to the falls there is a marble Buddha Image which is said to be one of the finest statues on the island.

The best way is to get a motorcycle to explore the splendid vistas. It is most convenient to rent one. You need at least 125cc to travel up and down the hills because some roads are dirt tracks which are sheer and uneven.

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Doi Angkhang in Chiang Mai

One of the coldest places in Thailand, Doi Angkhang in Chiang Mai, is renowned as a scenic wonderland of orchards, flowers and forests. The area attracts tourists to enjoy the chilly beauty of this picture-perfect valley in the mountains 1,400 metres above sea-level. Here, the ever-present influence of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej, Rama IX, can be sensed at the Royal Agricultural Station Angkhang which has done so much to effect the greening of the valley, bringing agricultural affluence and a better quality of life to the ethnic people there.

Royal Intervention

It was not always such an attractive place to live. In the 1960s, Doi Angkhang was remote, isolated, with no roads and off limits to outsiders. Its occupants — refugees from Yunnan in China and Black Musers — grew opium, peaches and rice, living in poverty with no proper access to education or medical treatment.

King Bhumibol learnt about Doi Angkhang while travelling nearby in 1969. “As we had a helicopter, the King decided to fly to the top of the mountain to see for himself,” explained His Serene Highness Prince Bhisadej Rajani, Chairman and Director of the Royal Project Foundation. “There were poppies and peach trees, but the hillsides were extensively deforested through slash and burn cultivation.”

It was time for intervention. The King purchased land to set up the first research station for temperate fruit, vegetables, trees and flowers. According to Prince Bhisadej, “His Majesty asked us to find temperate fruit to grow on Angkhang, because he thought that income from the fruit would be higher than from poppies.”

It was. The Royal Project persuaded two or three families to grow some fruit. “We helped them cultivate the fruit, harvest and sell it. They earned a lot of money. Once word got around about the income coupled with the King’s influence, everyone wanted to grow fruit,” recalls Prince Bhisadej. “After that it was easy.”

Today, the Royal Agricultural Station Angkhang is the flagship for the Royal Projects, and the premier research station in Thailand for temperate fruits, testing new strains and cultivating fruit saplings for extension throughout the Royal Projects.

Other goals set by King Bhumibol are also evident. The hillsides are covered in new forests and agricultural plots that have helped eliminate poppy cultivation; four schools provide education for children; a small medical centre keeps everyone healthy; and there are now good roads to the outside world.

Attractions

Flower Gardens
Tourists love to visit Doi Angkhang to experience the cold weather (it can dip below zero in December and January), and to enjoy the scenery and burgeoning plant life. The Royal Agricultural Station Angkhang is actually a research station for temperate climate fruit. During the winter, temperate fruit trees shed their leaves and plants do not bloom. “Visitors used to complain that the trees were dying and there was nothing to see,” says Prince Bhisadej, who decided to introduce something for tourists “to see.”

Military Base
A small military base right on the border with Burma next to Nor Lae village provides security for Doi Angkhang, and is also a popular scenic spot. The soldiers are friendly, welcoming visitors and providing insights into the tough life of being a Thai soldier on border patrol.

Junior Guides
Nine years ago, Kru Riem started the Junior Guide Programme, training school children to show tourists around their villages at weekends and holidays. It was a popular special activity that helped the children gain confidence to talk to adults, and to develop interpersonal skills.

When the Ministry of Education introduced curriculum changes to include one local subject for upcountry schools, Kru Riem proposed the Junior Guide Programme. It was accepted as a compulsory subject in the new curriculum. Makoo Techasophon of Angkhang Nature Resort and Royal Project staff were roped in as part-time teachers.

Today, Junior Guides are stationed at their villages every weekend, ready and eager to show tourists about life in the village. However, tourists are not allowed to take children outside the villages in their cars. There is no charge for the service, but donations can be placed in a special box to be split up every month — 60 per cent shared among the Junior Guides, 40 per cent going to the schools to fund summer camps and field trips.

Reforestation
Restoring forests to denuded hills is an important goal of the Royal Project. Doi Angkhang’s reforestation programme began in 1982, in a cooperative effort between Thailand’s agricultural university, Kasetsart, and the Taiwan government, with technical support from National Taiwan University. Various temperate tree types were tried until five fast-growing species were found to respond well to the Angkhang climate — Taiwan acacia, Griffith’s ash, Camphor tree, Fragrant maple, and Paulonia.

To date, 681 rai of land is under new forest cover, with a further 118 rai extended as community forest to be looked after by the villagers, who can cut down and utilize the wood, provided they replant the trees. Visitors can discover the beauty of the forested slopes with treks along ten marked nature trails, all just over a kilometre long.

Good wood, including wood purchased from the community forest, is dried and shaved into straight pieces used to make outdoor furniture, boxes, baskets and other items that are in the process of development. Shavings from the wood processing are mixed with leaves and vegetation to make compost for the organic farms. Visitors are welcome to see the production process, or purchase wooden items from the Royal Project shop in the Flower Garden.

Buffaloes Everywhere
Smiling buffaloes seem to be everywhere. Initially King Bhumibol donated two pairs of buffaloes to the Musers to help in their rice cultivation. However, they earned so much money from temperate climate produce, they stopped growing rice and buy it instead. Now the buffaloes having nothing to do but eat and multiply. The Musers refuse to sell or even eat them “because they are a gift from the King,” as one Muser farmer explained.

Marketing
The agricultural development of Doi Angkhang succeeds because the Royal Project guarantees to purchase all fruit, vegetables and flowers at good prices, provided they meet set standards of quality. Agricultural areas, especially the organic farms, are inspected by Royal Project staff prior to harvest. Then the produce is taken to the pre-cooling factory in the Royal Station, where it is checked, graded, packed, and stored in a cooler ready to transport to the Royal Project production plant in Chiang Mai.

Currently, Royal Project produce is sold under the Doi Kham brand to leading hotels in Chiang Mai and Bangkok, restaurants, and to corporate entities like Thai Airways International. The airline is a strategic partner of the Royal Project and its largest customer, using fruit and vegetables in its inflight menus, airport restaurants and outside catering. The general public can also buy through supermarkets like Tesco Lotus, Tops, Big C, Carrefour, Golden Place as well as Doi Kham shops.

In Father’s Footsteps
Makoo Techasophon has spent over ten years on Doi Angkhang as general manager of Angkhang Nature Resort, learning much about the lives of people inhabiting the mountain and the important role King Bhumibol has played in improving those lives. To give visitors a better understanding of life on Doi Angkhang, two years ago Makoo launched his “To Follow Father’s Footsteps” programme, which he conducts himself with support from staff at the Royal Station.

Taking groups for two days and a night, the programme is basically a walking tour through villages and agricultural areas, ending at the Royal Station, and talking with people along the way about their lives and how they met King Bhumibol. “I tell my groups that the King has walked everywhere on Doi Angkhang. We are merely following in his footsteps,” explains Makoo.

The tour begins at Khob Dong school, where Kru Riem introduces her children who accept donations from the visitors and then perform some ethnic dances. It then heads to Khob Dong to meet Ja Mor, the Muser witchdoctor, who has drunk tea with King Bhumibol and is one of his most ardent supporters.

Occasionally quite strenuous, the walk continues through the development areas of strawberries and organic vegetables to Nor Lae village, and a possible meeting with the headman who originally petitioned King Bhumibol for the Palong tribe to stay on Angkhang. Following a picnic lunch of northern Thai food, the walk continues through tea plantations and forests, ending at the Royal Station. Not everything is done at once, but planned in advance depending on how much the group wants to see.

Makoo does not charge for the tour. It is his personal tribute to the work of King Bhumibol. Although aimed primarily at groups, during the December and January high season the tour is run regularly for individual visitors who really want to know more about the King Bhumibol’s work and are prepared to follow in his footsteps.

In-Flight Meals
To celebrate King Bhumibol’s 80th birthday on 5 December 2007, Thai Airways International has created special onboard menus using Royal Project produce to be served on all international flights departing from Bangkok in the 4-6 December period. Passengers in all classes will be able to enjoy such dishes as grilled prawn with apple and orange salad, marinated tabtim fish with spicy lemongrass, carrots and French beans, and Royal Project chayote gateau.

Royal Project Festival

13-16 December 2007
At the Chiang Mai University Convention Hall
Fruit, vegetables and a variety of other produce grown at Royal Project centres throughout northern Thailand will be on sale at the Royal Project Festival 2007 to be held at Chiang Mai University Convention Hall, 13-16 December. An extensive exhibition of King Bhumibol’s work in the Royal Project will also be on view.

Angkhang Gourmet Tour
To promote visits by tourists to Doi Angkhang during the warm season, the Royal Project plans two gourmet tours — at the end of both February and March 2008. Each tour for up to 80 persons will be three days, two nights and feature a special gourmet meal prepared by a guest chef, a briefing on the work of the Royal Agricultural Station Angkhang and a guided tour organized by Royal Project staff.

The cost is 14,000 baht inclusive of return airfare, accommodation, and gourmet meal. Norbert Kostner, Executive Chef of The Oriental Bangkok, will create a special meal for the February tour. Interested persons should call the Royal Project’s public relations office tel: +66 (0) 53 810 765-9 ext. 104.

Web site: www.angkhang.com (Thai only)

Getting There

Doi Angkhang is located on the Thai-Burma border, 160 kms north of Chiang Mai city in Fang District. This involves a three-hour drive with very steep roads up the mountain that cannot accommodate large tour buses.

On request, Angkhang Nature Resort offers a pick-up service by van from Amari Rincome Hotel or Chiang Mai airport, at a cost of 5,000 baht for the return journey.

Alternatively, visitors can make arrangements with various travel agencies in Thailand that offer guided Doi Angkhang tours:


Article Source: http://www.tatnews.org/emagazine/3576.asp

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Interesting Articles - Siam Cultural Park

Siam Cultural Park

When people think about tourism, most of the time they usually think of beaches, waterfalls, and mountains which are natural tourism. However other than those natural ones, Thailand also house many interest human-made tourist attractions. Like recently in Ratchaburi province, a newly built attraction opened for the public renowned Siam Cultural Park. Siam Cultural Park situates in Wangyen sub - district the district of Bangpae close to the famous Dumnurnsaduak Floating Market just a kilometer from Bangpae intersection on Petkasem road.The park was originated with the aim to conserve Thai traditions, cultures, and arts along with the shady natural park .

The park was originated with the aim to conserve Thai traditions, cultures, and arts along with the shady natural park . The Park is divided into six zones covering area more than 42-rai. The fist zone is housed to the Hall of Fame building which exhibits well-know important persons both Thai and foreign for example, M.L. Pin Malakul, H.E. Professor Dr. Sanya Dhammasak, President Ho Chi Minh, and Mother Terasa. Just a few steps from the Hall of Fame building and right before entering into the second zone, there are amazing and difficult-to-find-one trees in which a sugar palm tree surrounded by a bo tree, the tree the lord Buddha enlightened.

The second zone is called the Terrace of Buddha Image of Three Periods. The Buddha images reproduced from historical parks from three different periods, Ayutthaya , Sukhothai and Chiang Saen also known as Lanna. This zone gives an opportunity to explore three historical park in three different provinces in one place. The third zone is housed to a Jutaka Light and Sound Cave where the story of the Buddhist Saga Vessantara Jutaka is told with the aim to show the result the endless greed of human beings. Next to the cave lies a Herbal Drink house where a tradition refreshment drinks like Chrysanthemum, Rosella, Bael fruit, Lemon Grass, and Longan and Thai tradition sweets are served. The forth zone is exhibited Buddhist Monastic Cells which divided into regional styles where each cell housed two famous monks from the region. Crossing the bridge to the other side of the canal would bring visitors back to the past with the Thai traditional houses style in the fifth zone. This zone is also divided into regional styles where each styles has its uniqueness of architecture and design. Inside each house are artifacts to tell about the way of life of the people in the region. Crossing the second bridge would take visitors to the water-fall front for taking photos and enjoy coffee, tea, Thai sweets, ice-cream, and herbal drinks served by the Coffee House. After enjoy taking photos and the refreshments, walking along the footpath would finally take visitors to the footpath would finally take visitors to the last zone the Terrace of Avalokitasvara where the area is beautifully decorated with trees and flowers for the last shot before leaving the Park.

Siam Cultural Park is a very interesting tourist destination which shouldn’t miss in Ratchaburi province

Operating Hours

Monday -Friday : 9.00-16.30

Saturday -Sunday : 8.30-17.00

Annual holiday : 8.30-17.00

Ticket

Adult 50 B

Child 20 B

Article Source : www.tourismthailand.org

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Top 10 Cultural Tourist Attractions in Glasgow

Glasgow is a complete treat for all due to having wide range of entertaining options. Glasgow is the gateway to the Scotland’s cultural heritage and cultural values. It has few of the finest gothic era architectural wonders that are now the part of the cultural heritage of Glasgow. However, Glasgow has so many tourist attractions such as it has finest eating out options, family entertainment choices, nightlife enjoyment spots, precious theatres etc but among all cultural attractions has got the number one position. We have enlisted top ten best cultural tourist attractions in Glasgow that are really “must visit” places.

Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum

This is an inimitable art gallery and museum in Glasgow that remains over flocked with over million tourists and foreign visitors every year. It underwent in major refurbishment and currently serving as one of the finest art galleries and museums in Glasgow. Kelvingrove art galley and museum is the most visited historical museum in entire United Kingdom while simultaneously being the number one tourist attraction in Glasgow. It has extensive collection of greatest and historical artists. The great collections consist of arms and armour and natural history. The artworks consist of European artworks, French Impressionists, Scottish Colourists, and Dutch Renaissance etc. The main building of this art galley & museum is itself a great piece of Spanish architectural artwork. It is made up of red sandstones that are blocked in a Spanish Baroque style and offering an eye catching view.

Great Architectural Works from Charles Rennie Mackintosh

Glasgow is blessed with the great and historical architectural works of Charles Rennie Mackintosh. Mackintosh contributed a lot in the art and craft assets of Europe and specially those of Scotland. There is a great number of historical buildings and art collections by Mackintosh that are located in Glasgow. Few of the most significant architectural wonders by Mackintosh include: The Glasgow School of Art, the Mackintosh House, the Willow Tea Rooms, Ruchill Church Hall, Queens Cross Church, Martyrs’ Public School, and the Lighthouse etc. The Glasgow School of Art is a world famous art gallery that gets a huge traffic of foreign and local visitors every year. It is considered as the most significant masterpiece of the Mackintosh architectural works. The Willow Tea Rooms are another perfect example of the masterpiece buildings of the Mackintosh. This place was recreated partially while its various parts are preserved in their original shape. This place is perfect for having relaxing and private time with friends and family. Lighthouse is the perfect place to stroll around and believe me it would take your many hours without making you feel of time. Just take your camera with yourself while visiting Lighthouse.

The Burrell Collection

It is a great art collection gallery located in the world famous Pollok Country Park, Glasgow, Scotland. It is attracting millions of tourists and foreign visitors every year. This great art gallery contains extensive collection of gothic artworks including stained glasswork, tapestries, oak furniture, gothic weapons and armour, artifacts belong to ancient China and Egypt, Islamic artworks, Impressionist works by Cezanne and Degas, modern artifacts and sculptures etc. It is very easy to reach this great artwork collection venue in Glasgow. You can reach it through Pollokshaws West railway station.

Glasgow Cathedral

It is the heart beat of Glasgow and arguably inimitable architectural wonder that is gifted to the Glasgow city from the Gothic era. This cathedral is the most popular cathedral in Glasgow and it is also world famous for its historical and religious values. It remains open for tourists and foreign visitors but on charges while for worshipers there is no entry fee. The must see and popular points within this cathedral are the tomb of St. Kenitgern, Nave & Millennium entrance, and the Creation and the Clock.

Gallery of Modern Art

This is one the finest art galleries in Glasgow that is based on the collection of contemporary artworks. It is more commonly known as GoMA. This magnificent gallery is the home of various exhibitions and workshops, as well and attracting millions of tourists every year. This art gallery is ideally located in the centre of Glasgow city. The main building of this art gallery is itself worth to see because it is based in the neoclassical building within the Royal Exchange Square. The exhibites at this gallery include the great artworks of David Hockney, Sebastiao Salgado, John Bellany, Ken Currie, and Andy Warhol. There is a lot to do inside this gallery and tourists can easily keep exploring places in this gallery such as underground learning library, Education and Access Studio, cafes etc. There is a wonderful statue of the Duke of Wellington with a traffic cone. This cone is replaced on occasions by the officials and makes the statue more attractive.

People’s Palace

The People’s Palace and Winter Gardens are the significant glasshouse and leading museum in Glasgow. This people’s palace was originally built to provide a cultural centre to the people of Glasgow. The People’s Palace has now become the only museum in Glasgow that tells the entire story of Glaswegians and Glasgow city. Currently this place consists of museum, picture gallery, museum, glasshouse, and the gardens. This museum is a perfect place to learn about the history of Glasgow, its native people, and their lifestyle. This great museum and glasshouse gets heavy traffic of local and foreign visitors every year.

Museum of Transport

Wow! What a unique place with an extensive collection of transport models including ship models, road vehicles, railway and tramway models etc. This museum gets over half million tourists and foreign visitors every year. It has now closed and undergoing in renovation. At the same time it is relocating to new place and its reopening is expected soon. This museum contains the oldest cycling pedal and collection of Scottish built cars such as Argyll, Arrol Johnson, Albon, popular cars including Hillman Imp, Chrysler Avenger, Chrysler Sunbeam, ship models including Comet, the Hood, the Howe, the Queen Mary, and the Queen Elizabeth I & II etc.

Glasgow Botanic Gardens & the Kibble Palace

It is a wonderful place in Glasgow that is dedicated to the common public of Glasgow and tourists. It consists of various glasshouses and among them the most significant is the Kibble Palace. It is a must visit place that worth your attention. The Kibble Palace will cast a spell on you and will keep you under its magical influence for a long time period. Take your camera and enjoy a wonderful time with your family and friends.

Glasgow Science Centre

It is a totally a tourists place that also remains over loaded with local visitors. This centre was built purposely and consisting of three distinct buildings that are: the Science Mall, an IMAX cinema, and the Glasgow Tower. Glasgow Science Tower is the tallest tower in the world that is also the part of Guinness book of world record.

University of Glasgow

It is a historical university in Glasgow and the fourth oldest in United Kingdom. It is also the top ranked British university in the world. This university is one of the significant and most visited cultural heritage sites in Glasgow. It can only be explored via guided tour on particular days and timings. This university holds great importance in Glasgow and attracting literally millions of tourists every year.

Above mentioned detestations are the most significant and precious world famous cultural attractions in Glasgow. Each destination is unique for its unique features and values. While visiting Glasgow we highly recommend you these top ten cultural tourist attractions to be seen.

Credit by: http://www.book-european-hotels.com/Glasgow-Attractions.php

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Top 10 Things to do Whilst on Holiday in Barcelona

10) Turn up the heat with Flamenco dancing...

Set those pulses racing at a live Flamenco show. A great place to do this is Tabloa Flamenco Cordobes situated at Las Ramblas, 35. You can have dinner followed by an incredible display of rhythm, dance and live music.

9) The Nou Camp Stadium...

See the world's most beautiful game at the world's most beautiful stadium in an atmosphere like you've never experienced. If you're not lucky enough to get hold of tickets then go for a Barcelona FC stadium tour instead.

8) Take a master class in Paella...

Prepare one of Spain's tastiest dishes in a truly unique experience at Lifestyle Barcelona. Your three-hour gastronomic package includes a trip to the Boqueria Market before learning how to paella the authentic way. Wash down your culinary creation with complimentary wine.

7) Barcelona by Helicopter...

What better way to appreciate the beauty of Barcelona than from 2000 feet? Take in panoramic views of Tibidabo, Agbar Tower and Montserrat Mountain. This is a must for romantics and thrill seekers alike.

6) Scoot around the city in style...

Bored of the usual guided bus tours? Then explore the city in style with a scooter tour. If you're looking for something that little bit different this is a cool and adventurous way to get around all of the famous sights.

5) Romantic hot air balloon ride over Catalonia...

Okay, so you're slowly drifting high above the tranquil Mediterranean Sea soon followed by the majestic Pyrenees. Sound appealing? Balloon flights are widely available near Barcelona. An experience of a lifetime!

4) Barcelona Canyoning experience...

Could you abseil down a raging waterfall? Or launch yourself from a 20-foot ledge into a deep rock pool? This is Canyoning in Catalonia. Many packages take you to the neighbouring Pyrenees and are popular with holidaymakers looking for something different and adventurous.

3) VIP Tour on a Harley Davidson...

Experience Barcelona in a completely different way on the back of the king of all motorbikes - a Harley Davidson! You don't need a license to enjoy this unique experience because a private Chauffer will take you wherever you want to go. VIP Harley Tours are available at Cooltra.

2) Unwind with a Chocolate Massage...

Yes, you read correctly - a chocolate massage! You don't need a sweet tooth to enjoy this amazingly unique experience as you're covered from head to toe in chocolate and almond oil. Apparently it's great for your skin too. Is there a better way to enjoy chocolate without piling on the pounds? Who cares - I want one! For more details visit Lifestyle Barcelona.

1) Drive a Lamborghini Gallardo...

It's understandable if some of you are still preoccupied with thoughts of chocolate but this has to be the ultimate in flashy self-indulgence. Feel the power of 509 horsepower engine on a Spanish Formula 1 racetrack under the guidance of a Lamborghini driving instructor. So what are you waiting for... buckle up and push the peddle to the metal for the ride of your life.

Credit by : http://flights.jet2.com/barcelona/barcelona-top-10-guide.htm

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Flamingo Ecology

For many years, great studies have been done on Flamingoes especially on the Great Rift Valley lakes of Kenya and Tanzania. One of these lakes is the famous Bird watchers paradise - Lake Nakuru national park. It is here where over 1.5 million flamingoes wallow the shoes of alkaline waters rich in blue green algae. Many visitors on African Safaris are amazed with the panoramic view of the spending with great photos taken on vast African horizons and rocky cliffs.

Although the alluring ecstasy to take more snaps is immeasurable, there is need to pick on a frew facts about the Flamingo and why there is great need to conserve them and their few delicate habitats.

Species

There are 6 species of flamingoes in the world, At first glance, they may look similar to each other, but certain features such as size, leg colour or beak allow easy identification.

Today, we will major on the lesser Flamingo as we explore their vast and diverse facts as follows;

Behavior;

Flamingoes are itinerant species adapted to respond to changes in local environmental conditions, and thus depend on a network of suitable sites. They feed on species of microscopic cyanobacteria and benthic diatoms found only in alkaline lakes.

The characteristic feeding is primarily by swimming and filtering the algae and diatoms with a specialized bill that contains up to 10,000 microscopic lamellae. The Lesser Flamingos depend primarily on shallow saline/alkaline lakes, pans, wetlands and coastal areas within easy flying distance (i.e. 120-180 km) of a good feeding site for the parents.
They feed several hours each day when the surface of the water is sufficiently calm to enable them to feed. If the surface of the water is not calm, they are unable to feed and are confined to the limited areas of wet mud.

Species Classification

They are classified as "Near Threatened", nearly qualifying as threatened under criteria A3c: (A population size reduction of 30%, projected or suspected to be met within the next 10 years or three generations, whichever is the longer -up to a maximum of 100 years), based on a decline in area of occupancy, extent of occurrence and/or quality of habitat.
It is also listed in Columns A and B of the Agreement on the Conservation of African-Eurasian Migratory Water birds (AEWA) Action Plan, Appendix II of the Bonn Convention (CMS) and Appendix II of the CITES convention.

Conservation

There are four separate populations recognized for conservation purposes;
1. The largest population, estimated to be 1.5 - 2.5 million individuals, occurs on the alkaline-saline lakes of the Great Rift Valley in East Africa.
Smaller populations occur in the
2. North-western India, estimated to be approximately 390,000 birds.
3. Southern Africa, estimated to be 55,000 - 65,000 birds.
4. West Africa, estimated to be 15,000 - 25,000 birds.

Maturity

They reach sexual maturity at 3-4 years of age and they breed following seasonal rains that provide the flooding necessary to isolate remote breeding sites from terrestrial predators and the soft muddy material for nest building. Nests are built from mud substrates where they lay eggs. The mean incubation is 28 days and Fledging is approximately 70 days.
The selection of breeding site is chosen in regard to; Inaccessibility to terrestrial disturbance from humans or animal predators and subject to seasonal flooding that is sufficiently shallow (and calm) to enable the construction of the traditional conical mud nests without them being washed away, but sufficiently deep and long lasting to prohibit terrestrial predators from reaching the nesting colony.

Threats to flamingo conservation

Most critical threat to the survival of the Lesser Flamingo (a factor causing or likely to cause very rapid declines >30% over 10 years or three generations) is the degradation of its specialized breeding and feeding habitats through
1. Altered hydrology and water quality
2. Wetland pollution,
3. Extraction of salt and soda ash
4. Disruption of its few breeding colonies by human activities

There are also threats of High importance (factors causing or likely to cause rapid declines (20-30% over 10 years or three generations)
• Poisoning (heavy metals, pesticides & cyanobacteria toxins)
• Diseases - Avian flu, cholera, mycobacteriosis
• Disruption of its few breeding colonies by human activities (particularly from nearby settlements).
and finally, threats of low importance (factors causing or likely to cause negligible decline)
• Human disturbance of non-breeding sites
• Collision with man-made structures
• Predation
• Competition with other species for food and breeding sites
• Harvesting of eggs and live birds.

Therefore, while doing your African Safari, please take time and give back to the conservation of this endangered jewel while at the same time minimize any interference that may contribute to them being more endangered.

Enjoy your view of Flamingoes.

Source: ArticleTrader.com

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Italy Travel Guide

Italy Holidays – Italy Tours & Adventure Travel Guide

Tours Italy Holiday Highlights

Culture & History – Museums throughout Italy showcase incredible collections of artifacts, archaeological finds and famous artworks. Visit Galleria Borghese in Rome, or the La Torre di Pisa in Florence. Italy has remained the center of European life for centuries and all is there to view in the historic sites and displays. Ruins of ancient Rome are still silhouetted against the skyline at twilight and the Christian Rome life is visible to the naked eye.

Sightseeing – You’ve often heard about or seen pictures of the famous spots in Italy, revered by those who have already visited. There are too many to list, but a few of those you must see are the Pincio Gardens, Quirinal Hill and the Spanish Steps in Rome. In Florence you have to visit Michelangelo's "David," of course, and stop by Piazzale Michelangiolo for some unbelievable sights. All through Italy, no matter your destination, there is sightseeing enough to keep you occupied for weeks and weeks.

Trekking – Along the coast and through the mountains of gorgeous Italy, the choice of adventures is yours on your tours Italy. A trekking holiday in Italy will show you the charm and beauty of this fabulous country, filled with history and incomparable sights. Take a pilgrimage route from Rome or hike Tuscany. The options are many and your enjoyment is guaranteed.

Cycling – Italy is a paradise for cycling, with safe roads and lovely views. Italians are gracious and respect the rider in all parts of the country, often calling out words of encouragement as you are touring. Pedaling the narrow streets of a tiny village, you will feel you are in some dream landscape. As you climb a pass in the mountains to the north, you will begin to believe you are on another planet. Try some remote secondary road between Milan and Lake Como. Cycling in Italy, among the rolling hills and vineyards, will win your heart.

Water Sports – With Italy surrounded on three sides with the azure seas, you can imagine that water sports are popular in all areas. Swimming and sailing, water polo and diving, rowing and motorboat racing all can be found at the seaside resorts. Play water basketball, invented by Italians, or water ski in the brilliant yet caressing sun. Beach holidays are wonderful in Italy.

Winter Sports – For the best in Italian winter sports you will go to the Italian Alps, with the major resorts and accommodating facilities. There the skiing will be challenging and exciting. Cross-country skiing is a favorite in Northern Italy, and in Central Italy you can find popular resorts such as Abetone and Campo Imperatore. But skiing isn’t everything. You will have plenty of opportunity to try your hand at ice hockey, figure skating or bobsledding.

Climbing – Rock climbing in Italy provides everything you’re looking for, from the big walls to navigating the pinnacles, from scaling the towers to one pitch climbs. Adventures on a climbing holiday in Italy highlight the diversified landscapes of this beautiful land, and you can be a part of it.

When to Go

The best time to travel to Italy is from April to June and in late September to October. At these times the temperatures are the mildest and there aren’t huge crowds. From June to the middle of September, the summer crowds can be busy. August is when the heat is intense and many Italians take a vacation for the entire month.

Top Tips

• Wear comfortable shoes, as you will be doing a lot of walking on your holiday.
• There aren’t many public toilets. You can find some in large railway stations. Sometimes you have to pay for their use. And carry some toilet paper with you, as many public toilets won’t have any available.
• When traveling on the train, ensure you get your ticket stamped at a yellow machine along the track. If you fail to get it stamped, the conductor on the train can hand-stamp it for you if you explain the situation.
• Making phone calls within Italy will require a telephone card, which can be purchased from a tobacco shop with sign of a white letter T on a black background.

Italy Holidays In Focus

Culture and History

Rome is the best place to begin your cultural holiday in Italy. You can see many sides to this city, from ancient to medieval or from Christian to Renaissance. The Capitoline Museum in the Piazza del Campidoglio offers fragments from a gigantic sculpture of Constantine and artifacts range from those of the 1st century BC to the 17th century AD. The Keats-Shelley Memorial House is the apartment where the English poet, John Keats, spent the last months of his life. You can see memorabilia and paintings of Keats, Shelly or Byron. At Galleria Borghese you’ll discover several paintings by Caravaggio and some Bernini sculptures.

You must also visit the Napoleonic Museum and the Vatican Museum on your tours of Italy. The Colosseum and the Pantheon, as well as the Roman Forum go without saying. In Florence, see how the Medicis lived by touring the Palazzo Pitti. See the incredible leaning tower of the La Torre di Pisa and climb to the top for an aerial view. It’s 294 steps to the top and you are allowed only 30 minutes each visit. The Baptistery in Florence is also a place you must see, with descriptive artwork praised by Michelangelo. Climb the Campanile for a panoramic view of Florence.

Sightseeing On Tours Of Italy

Incredible sightseeing awaits you in Italy. There is probably no other country in the world so filled with such sights and sounds as that of this lovely country. In Rome the Arch of Constantine commemorates the Battle of the Milvian Bridge and you can see where the ancient temple of Jupiter stood on Capitoline Hill. Walk to the top when on the Janiculum Walk so you can see the lovely views of the Alban Hills.

At Pincio Gardens you will also find unbelievable vistas of Rome, especially at sunset. On Quirinal Hill, the highest of hills in Rome, you can discover St. Peter's dome in the distance. In Via del Corso you will see the famous street where in the 19th century numerous cafés, boutiques, and bookstores thrived. Now you can visit the present-day shops and cafés.

Don’t pass up a chance to see Michelangelo's "David" in Florence, or the inspiration of the Neptune Fountain, surrounded by delightful sculptures. Ponte Vecchio was built in 972 AD and is lined by the best goldsmiths and jewelers in Florence. You will have the opportunity to pick up some wonderful souvenirs and trinkets at Mercato Nuovo (New Market) and also see this fascinating market that has been in operation since the sixteenth century.

Trekking

Among the places that are popular trekking on an Italian holiday are the Valcamonica, where you can view incredible rock art, and along a pilgrimage trail called La Via Francigena. Hike the Cinque Terre or around the Ligurian Mountains for a terrific wandering journey. Tour the Amalfi coast and don’t miss the Island of Capri. See the rock carvings by trekking the Val Camonica in the Cal Camonica valley. Through small villages with narrow streets, past women draped with shawls and old men whittling on the stoops, you will see the best in Italy on a trekking tour.

Cycling

When in Italy in May, you can first take part in some spectator sports by watching the Giro d'Italia, a famous long distance bicycle race. But you want to cycle this lovely country yourself, cycle through Imperia and see breathtaking views with rich natural sites to see along the way. Bike the Ligurian Alps and perhaps catch a glimpse of some alpine hares or a golden eagle. In Lombardy, one of the largest areas in Italy, you will not only see wonderful hilly sections of the country, but also enjoy the lakes in the foothills of the Alps. Sleepy villages in the Veneto highlight the age-old tradition of cycling in Italy. One of the smallest regions of Italy can offer immense pleasure in your biking adventure as you cycle past plains, beaches and lagoons so you’ll find that Friuli-Venezia Giulia is magical in its wonders.

Probably the most fascinating area to travel is Tuscany. Moving along from the Tyrrheanian coast through the wooded slopes of the Apennine Mountains, you will be able to observe workers in the fields, thick forests and historic villages. If cycling is your passion then Italy will charm you with its incredible history and landscapes.

Water Sports

With over 5,000 miles of coastline, Italy has become one of Europe’s best summer holiday destinations. Facilities can be found to make your holiday more enjoyable, like deckchairs being made available for a small charge. You’ll find whatever you desire at the major resorts. There’s a large 219-mile stretch from France to Tuscany, which is known as the Italian Riviera, and the Adriatic or Amalfi coasts are also top choices. Surf in Mauro or go diving along the coast of Tuscany or Liguria. Rivers in northern Italy offer some great fishing. You can go sailing on any of the lakes throughout the country, such as Como, Lugano, Maggiore or Garda.

Winter Sports

The Italian Alps are the perfect choice for skiing and winter sports in Italy. Anywhere you find skiing, you’ll also find other winter fun, like snowboarding, bobsledding and snowmobiling. If you head west of Turin, you’ll be able to experience the resorts of Sauze d’Oulx or Sestriere in the Piedmont region. In the eastern regions of Italy, you can visit the Dolomites, but continue east and you’ll find some great skiing destinations and the resorts of Madonna di Campiglio and Cortina D’Ampezzo.

Further north, the Aosta Valley will be the area to visit, where you can take one of the highest cable cars in all of Europe and see the Matterhorn, Monte Bianco, and the Monte Rosa with a number of fabulous ski resorts. In Central Italy, Abetone in Tuscany and Campo Imperatore in Abruzzo to visit on your Italy holidays.

Climbing On Italy Holidays

For the best in climbing, you can try out the Dolomites, with multi-day excursions, retracing the paths of the pioneers such as Buhl, Solda and Comici. You will experience the peaks of the Alps, the Lake Garda Range and the Brenta Range. The Brenta Range actually belongs to the Central Alps and is bounded on all sides by valleys. You can spend many summer days here climbing a number of fine routes, with various levels of difficulty. At the north edge of Lake Garda, you’ll find a quality rock climbing area with about thirty limestone crags. Another place of choice is Lake Como, which offers a range of climbing experiences on vacations Italy. Try Muzzerone for some sea cliff climbing and exciting rock climbing near Naples.

Classic Itineraries For Vacations Italy

• Take a canal boat tour in Venice to discover the charm of the world’s most unique city.
• Visit the Pantheon in Rome and explore the history of this fabulous monument, saved from plunder and invasion through 20 centuries.
• See the Galleria dell'Accademia museum in Florence and view one of the most famous statues anywhere, Michelangelo's David, portraying the ancient hero who killed Goliath with a little slingshot.
• Tour the major cities of Italy by train, and see Rome, Milan, Florence and Venice in two or three weeks.
• Take a tour of museums in Tuscany, in popular cities like Florence, Siena, Arezzo, and Livorno.

Article source by : http://www.puretravel.com/Guide/Europe/Southern_Europe/italy

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Backpacking in Thailand - North

AYUTHAYA

When arriving at the Bangkok international airport, one leaves the air-conditioned airplane into a wall of humid heat. It was 38 degrees C (100 F) in early June. One gets used to it quickly, but it sets the pace for the rest of the trip - leisurely walking is the only way to avoid breaking into a sweat all the time, and one contrives to stand near fans a lot.

I arrived with no plans where to go next, so I had a hotel booked in Bangkok to get a feel for the country before I set off. This was unnecessary; Thailand is very well suited to just hopping on a bus or train and going off on a whim. I used a train from Bangkok's Hualamphong train station to Ayuthaya, the next morning; it would have been better to go there right from the airport.

Ayuthaya was the capital of Thailand until 1757, but now it is just a large field of ruined wats like the one in the picture to the right, and at the top of this page. From the train station it's a short walk to the ferry, an old wooden pier with shaking stairs and a boat driven by an ancient open diesel motor. The town begins promising on the other side, but peters out very quickly, like a toy town built by a child with too much space and way too few houses. Nice wats, all ruins.

I stayed for one night in the Wieng Fa hotel, not very fancy but not bad for a Thai budget hotel.

WAT?

A wat is a buddhist temple compound. There are wats in every village that are well-maintained and staffed by monks in their orange clothes. Cone-shaped chedis can be found in all wats, either in the pointy Thai style or the older rounded Khmer style. Almost all the wats in Ayuthaya and Lopburi are ruins.

All the buildings in Ayuthaya and Lopburi are built from bricks and covered with plaster. Most of the plaster has fallen off, and the brick structures are not very well preserved - they keep crumbling, and some buildings are merely huge overgrown piles of bricks, like the temple behind the Buddha at the top of this page. In many cases, the ground the chedi was built on has sunk over the centuries, so that formerly straight floors now curve up and down, and many chedis are strongly leaning to one side.

Khmer chedis like the ones in the picture have very steep stairs leading to a door. The inside is basically hollow, with a ceiling tapering to a tip. Originally, there were shrines inside, Buddha statues and sacrifices. It is possible to climb up there and look in but entering is difficult because of the stench of the bats that found a home in the dark caverns.

Wats also contain countless Buddha statues, all in one of the seven standard poses. They are usually covered with gold leaf, sometimes smoothly applied and sometimes loosely attached by worshippers; sometimes, if there isn't enough money, there is a single gold patch on the right breast. In the ruined wats, many statues are broken and headless.

LOPBURI

I took the train from Ayuthaya to Lopburi. Trains are very convenient, they run frequently and are extremely cheap. I went third class, which means benches running along the sides, fans on the ceiling, and open windows. Lopburi, unlike Ayuthaya, is a real small town with shops and markets, and much more interesting than Ayuthaya. Right across from the train station, there is a wat not unlike the ones found in Ayuthaya, where the picture on the right was taken.

Lopburi also has an old palace, parts of which are in ruins and parts of which are still in use. They are all set in a large garden that is used by the locals as a park. Another wat is crawling with monkeys, who also run free in the town, looking for food. The little guy on the left was alarmed by the camera I stuck in his face.

In general I'd recommend staying in Lopburi, not Ayuthaya. There may be fewer and less prominent wats but there is just more to do there.

CHIANG MAI

The next stop on many people's itineraries is Sukhothai, another former capital, but I decided not to spend another day looking at ruins so I went straight to Chiang Mai. (Looking back, a day in Sukhothai would have been better spent than a day on the southern islands.) I used a sleeper on the night train from Lopburi, lower berth, which is about the most expensive thing the railway offers (about $12). The beds are a bit short for a Westener (Thais are generally shorter) but comfortable. Earplugs made sleep possible; train tracks in Thailand are not continuously-welded and the wheels rattle. Anybody used to whispering European trains will be shocked by the noise! In second class it's bad; In third class it's deafening.

Chiang Mai is a large city but much smaller than Bangkok, without the smog and the traffic chaos but with all the amenities. The picture on the right shows a typical side street - some old wooden buildings, many new concrete buildings, shops, market booths, and food vendors and little taxi cabs and people everywhere. Very few places in Thailand have that sparkling designed look of western shopping streets; people just use any space available and make do with what they have.

Of course, Chiang Mai has its share of wats and shrines. The one on the left shows the interior of the building that houses the Buddha shrine, with an especially elaborate ceiling. On the steps of the altar, smaller statues, burning incense, and offerings are placed. The rug in front is used by kneeling worshippers. To the right is a picture of King Bhumibhol of Thailand, who is greatly respected in Thailand and whose picture can be found everywhere.

As I write this, I sit in the hotel garden by the pool under palm trees, watching the boats on the Maekong river which flows through Chiang Mai. If you can afford B1800, stay at the River View Lodge. They took care of my excursion plans and flight arrangements, and when the hotel's excursion offers didn't quite meet my expectations they found another agency that had just what I wanted. Every once in a while I like to relax in a good hotel, avoiding all the hassles like cold showers and insects in the cheap ones, and the River View Lodge was one of these.

Like all towns, Chiang Mai has a variety of "markets", which are really bazaars of haphazard booths of all kinds, like in the picture on the left. The typical booth offers food or clothes, but there are specialty markets too (in Bangkok there is a large "hi-fi market" where the stalls offer BNC connectors and little bags of transistors and cable drums and all kinds of other electronic parts!). In between there are food vendors, small carts with a display case full of meat and vegetable bowls, a gas cooker, and nicely arranged food.

If you are so inclined, there is always a mini-mart selling Pringles potato chips and Danone yoghurt nearby, but why Thailand visitors would eat pizza and cheeseburgers is beyond me. I started carefully at hotel restaurants for fear of upsetting my stomach, but when nothing happened I switched to random Thai places, and as nothing continued to happen I started sampling from street vendor carts. No problem. I avoided tap water and unpeeled fruit though. The pineapples and mangos are wonderful, unlike any I have ever eaten before, but OJ is poor - polluted, excuse me, fortified with artificial flavors and color. There are 7-Eleven stores all over Thai cities, and they count as upscale shops here, even air-conditioned and full of Western wares.

ELEPHANTS, HILL TRIBES, AND RAFTING

Chiang Mai is an excellent starting point for excursions into northern Thailand, and there are travel agents everywhere offering them. The point where Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar (formerly Burma) meet is called the Golden Triangle, a supposedly beautiful area but rather far away, and an excursion takes many days so I chose something closer to Chiang Mai. I ended up with an excursion by Panda Tours (phone 278296) that included elephant riding, river rafting, and hiking up some hills to visit mountain tribes and see waterfalls.

Elephants are used as work animals in rural Thailand, carrying timber or doing heavy farmwork. They are a tourist staple too. They mount a wooden saddle on an iron frame on the back for two people to sit, while the driver, a small boy in my case, sits right on the bare head of the elephant, guiding it with his feet behind the elephant's ears. Elephants walk with slow, pondering, pounding steps, up and down hills on narrow paths. We rode for an hour until we got to the end of the trail.

From there, we continued hiking up the hill to visit hill tribes. That's what they call them; they are really immigrants from adjoining poorer countries trying to get Thai citizenship. I was assured that they don't mind being gawked at by tourists... They live in primitive huts built from roughly cut wood and palm leaves, but not so primitive that they wouldn't sell Coca Cola to thirsty tourists or watch TV. We visited several; it was a fairly long hike involving several shaky wicker-and-bamboo bridges like the one on the left.

We also passed some small rivers and a waterfall, where some people went swimming. The water is very warm, but in some places, especially still water, one can catch quite interesting diseases such as small worms that burrow through the skin and swim to the liver where they live happily everafter, so I skipped that opportunity.

The final item on the agenda was river rafting. The rafts were built from bamboo, tied together with old bicycle tires. There was a guide standing in front who guides the raft through the faster sections of the river with a long pole, and two or three tourists, one of whom stands in the rear with another pole. Water levels were fairly low so there were no difficult rapids, but there were large boulders and sand banks we had to maneuver around. In one place we got stuck and had to get off into the water, and then collided in mid-stream with the next raft...

Rafting on a small river through the jungle is great fun. It's not a jungle in the Tarzan sense, but there are dense forests, mangroves, ferns, and reed; with birds and small animals everywhere. Snakes, too; we saw one. They are small but poisonous. We were warned that it would get wet, but compared to true white-water rafting it was slow and quiet.

This excursion was certainly worth its cost ($20). It was fairly short, but travel agencies in Chiang Mai offer anything from half-day to week-long tours, from seeing some wat somewhere to hiking through the forests of the Golden Triangle. Some day I'll come back and spend more time here. Chiang Mai was the best part of the entire trip.

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