Island Vacation | Pattaya Beach Thailand OAverview

A breakdown of Pattaya BeachIn terms of activity, the northern end is typically more sedate, while the central and southern parts are a little funkier and livelier, day or night. The southern part the hub of Pattaya's nightlife is the densely packed epicentre of all things brash, noisy and risqu. Beach Road is lined with sand and sea to one side, and bars, restaurants, hotels and souvenir shops to the other. Inland, parallel Second Road is full of noodle bars, crowded beer bars, souvenir shops, hotels and guest houses.

Island Vacation | Pattaya Beach Thailand Overview

Over the past few years this area has undergone a major clean-up, with the water here now the clearest it's been in years. From here boats take visitors to offshore islands or on fishing or diving excursions, and a host of watersports are offered. The beautification process has been just as zealous onshore. While still the stage for a lot of wild nightlife, improving infrastructure, great transport facilities and a crackdown on crime have done wonders for the citys atmosphere.

One of the best ways to enjoy Pattaya is to get comfortable in a beach chair under the shade of an umbrella (all for hire), and wait for the food vendors to come around with freshly steamed shrimp or crispy, deep-fried crabs. Even better, spoil yourself with a traditional Thai massage right there on the beach. But then, the beauty of Pattaya is that it can be whatever you want it to be. Yes, life is sweet.

A Wealth of Watersports

A daytime stroll along the charming palm-lined promenade that borders the golden sandy beach to one side and Beach Road to the other, reveals abundant activity. As children build sandcastles at the feet of tiny waves, and locals enjoy shelter, snacks and socialising beneath umbrellas, thrill-seekers offshore partake in a host of available watersports. If you want to do the same, approach one of the many operators scattered along the beach (if they dont find you first!).

Island Vacation | Pattaya Beach Thailand Overview

For a flat but fair fee, you can board a slippery banana boat, try your hand at wind surfing or jet skiing, or join the paragliders swaying gently in the blue horizon the choice is yours! Diving expeditions and tours to one of several offshore coral islands in the area often depart from here.

Deck chairs and Beach vendors

Those feeling inactive neednt fear. As easily as you can skid in jet skis across the water here, those looking to relax can hire a rubber ring and drift off, or enjoy the shade, comfort and views afforded by a deck chair and umbrella (20 baht a day). The latter are ubiquitous all along the shore line. Hungry or feel like shopping? Unwilling to leave behind your seat? Never fear an endless procession of tenacious but amiable vendors march up and down Pattaya beach all day long, their sole aim to deliver all you desire.

Island Vacation | Pattaya Beach Thailand Overview

From the exotic to the mundane, this human conveyor belt ferries everything from ice creams, cold drinks and newspapers to jewelry, freshly roasted nuts and deep fried crabs. Should you want to pass, a polite mai ow krup (I dont want thanks) normally does the trick. Failing that, buy some sunglasses and pretend youre asleep.

Thai Massage and Beyond

A firm but ultimately satisfying Thai massage is also yours for the taking while on the beach. Get your feet and neck clicked, or that annoying back pain kneaded out while admiring the silhouette of far-off coral islands. For a fairly measly sum, your chosen masseuse will tend to you under your umbrella or nearby palm trees.

Island Vacation | Pattaya Beach Thailand Overview

Alternatively, take a walk along the winding palm-fringed promenade a pleasant pursuit anytime of day, but best at sunset. If you get bored of the feel of glorious warm sand between your toes (and are a sucker for scorching tarmac) cross over to the pavement lined with endless hotels, shops, markets, beer bars and restaurants. Many of the bars here serve chilled beers at bargain prices well before midday, and are great spots to watch the many kinds of people who patronize Pattaya. A walk up any of the sois adjoining Beach Road leads you to Second Road, away from pursuits involving sun, sand and sea.

Island Vacation | Ko Phi Phi Island Thailand

Ko Phi Phi, or Phi Phi Island, is one of the most talked about places in Southeast Asia, with its natural beauty and reputation for good times putting it firmly on the tourist trail. The beauty of the island is unparalleled, even in a region of the world renowned for its stunning destinations. Limestone cliffs, turquoise waters, white sand beaches and miles of trackless forest make Phi Phi a perfect tropical island.

Island Vacation | Ko Phi Phi Island Thailand

Developments over the past 20 years however have made it the subject of great controversy. Those who wanted to preserve its natural character have been pitched against those who wanted to make it a world-class holiday destination, and profit financially from the trade. To understand the dispute, imagine what the island was like more than two decades ago when it was first 'discovered' by adventurous backpackers looking for Eden on earth. They found it on Ko Phi Phi Don -- a long, wide sand bar gracefully arching between two magnificent islands, creating two placid bays ideal for swimming, snorkelling and scuba diving, surrounded by cliffs waiting to be climbed and forests to be explored. Back then only a scattering of bungalows dotted the island, which was populated mostly by a community of sea-faring gypsies who call themselves the Chao Ko, or Island People. There was no pier and only one public boat each week made scheduled trips to the island.

Island Vacation | Ko Phi Phi Island Thailand

But the paradox in seeking out a hidden paradise is that it winds up on the map and others begin to seek it out, too -- in ever-increasing numbers. The once-idyllic Ton Sai beach became a port, clogged with boats and debris, with a pier to accommodate the large vessels needed to bring the growing number of visitors to shore. The sandy isthmus is almost unrecognisable now, blanketed with guesthouses, luxury hotels, bars, restaurants, tailors, internet cafes, travel agents, banks, CD shops, jewellery stalls and clothing markets. Tourists are hounded by Thais and resident foreigners alike touting diving trips, boats for hire, places to stay and bars to drink at. Those who remember what it once was, and what it could have been, find it impossible not to shed a tear when they see the place today. It exists, after all, on what is partially national park land. Thailand might have created a well-managed park with walking trails, rock-climbing, caving, unspoiled diving and snorkelling sites. From that perspective, it is a paradise lost.

Island Vacation | Ko Phi Phi Island Thailand

But the blame doesn't rest solely with foreign tourists. The Western world has been paving paradise and putting up parking lots for a long time before Thailand got into the game and can hardly take the moral high ground. Whatever one may wish had been done with Ko Phi Phi, the balance of forces in Thai government and society have developed the island as a well-developed and fairly affordable resort destination for holiday-makers from around the world

The checkered history of Ko Phi Phi took a tragic turn in 2004 when the Asian tsunami lashed its shores. In the wake of the devastation, the balance of power seemed to shift as plans were revived to assert government control of the island and restore its status as a national park, allowing only careful and controlled development. But local land owners saw this as a land grab by parties within the Thai government. The government's plans were thwarted and private industry rebuilt, reinvested, and expanded the island's infrastructure. And they did so in fairly short order, considering the enormity of the task and a complete lack of any government relief. Private development picked up where it left off before the tsunami and shows no intention of changing course.

On the bright side, the island has been cleaned up considerably from the festering sore it was a decade ago, when construction marred much of it and filth covered the beaches. Thanks to a growing awareness of green issues and the tsunami itself, today the sand and waters are fairly clean, there are no private cars or macadam roads, and no plans to introduce any. A few dozens saleangs -- motorcycles with side cars -- pick their way over sand and dirt roads, transporting passengers and their bags to their hotel when they first arrive, but they are mostly used for getting goods and equipment from here to there. Other than that, modes of transport are limited to push carts, bicycles and flip-flops. The bikes are becoming increasingly annoying on Phi Phi's narrow lanes, with many oblivious to pedestrians. Accidents are definitely waiting to happen.

As before the tsunami, Ton Sai village occupies a large chunk of the isthmus, acting as an open-air shopping mall. Along Ton Sai beach, half-a-dozen bars blast pop music out over the water, serve pricey drinks and provide fire shows into the wee hours of the night. Though on average it's more expensive than many other Thai islands, it's still remarkably cheaper than similar accommodation in other premier destinations around the world. Try finding a decent room in Hawaii or San Tropez for ten dollars a night.

Recently the beachside parties have been getting larger, with the noise pollution keeping those nearby awake until 3/4/5 am. This has become a serious issue for hut operations around the beach area on Ao Loh Dalam. The licensing laws governing alcohol sales simply do not apply to some bars and outfits -- those that are well connected, local advice suggests. Many travellers do end up changing accommodation or having miserable stays.

Despite the touts and the crowds, Ton Sai village remains just what many vacationers are looking for in a fun, memorable holiday. And in terms of the unspoilt tropical paradise the island once was, the good news for the keepers of the flame is that it has not died out completely. Ko Phi Phi Don's sister island, Ko Phi Phi Leh remains completely untouched, being only available for daytrips by boat -- though many now complain that the inundation by daytrippers spoils the place in an only slightly less regrettable way.

Island Vacation | Ko Phi Phi Island Thailand

But there's more: between Ton Sai and Laem Thong, at the northern tip of the island, are a half-dozen beaches, many accessible only by boat, offering an escape from the maddening crowds. There you'll find accommodation ranging from dirt cheap spots through to some of the most exquisite luxury spots in Thailand. And Chao Ko still live out on Laem Thong, running local shops alongside the fancy resorts, selling food and drink at local prices. Even within walking distance of Ton Sai village, inland towards the northern part of the isthmus, are a great variety of places to stay where you can easily forget all about the shopping mall's dubious attractions.

Modern Phi Phi can be summed up as a place with plenty of choice, a vibrant nightlife and an island which still retains its natural stunning beauty -- all at a price though. The crowds will bother some, the prices will make many cringe and the disappearance of the Thai smile may be upsetting, but overall Phi Phi remains a must-see destination.

Island Vacation | Chiang Mai Island Thailand

Thailand's northern capital, Chiang Mai is Thailand's second most-visited city, yet in terms of size it does not remotely compare to Bangkok. With its smaller size and population, Chiang Mai has a lot in its favour for tourists and travellers alike, with the centre of town packed with glittering wats, excellent restaurants and expansive shopping markets all of which are easily taken in on foot.

If Thai temples are your thing, then Chiang Mai has a lot to offer -- the hill-top Wat Doi Suthep is the crown jewels of a vivid collection of traditional Thai temples -- so popular in fact that one of Chiang Mai's most luxurious hotels (with some controversy) modelled itself on one.

Island Vacation | Chiang Mai Island Thailand

Home to the prestigious Chiang Mai University, the city has quite a cosmopolitan feel to it with a lively entertainment scene and some of the best eating in northern Thailand -- this is not a town you'll go hungry in.

Island Vacation | Chiang Mai Island Thailand

But most foreign holiday-makers find themselves in Chiang Mai not for the temples nor the food, nor even the entertainment scene, but rather for the hill-tribe trekking. For decades Chiang Mai has formed the trekking base of northern Thailand -- and while there are some excellent tour companies in the city, there remain a number of shoddy operators -- be sure to do your research before heading into the hinterland. Many travellers are now opting to commence their treks further afield in Mae Hong Son, Pai or Soppong (amongst others) where the tourist numbers are lower and the perceived experience more "authentic".

Our recommendations

Where to start? Do the trip up to Doi Suthep. Do the night market, which is touristy, but for a reason: There are some cracking deals to be had. Chiang Mai has hundreds of wats, but to the casual visitor for whom wat fatigue quickly sets in.

Island Vacation | Chiang Mai Island Thailand

Chiang Mai has fabulous eating, but to see why, start your day at the fresh produce market (some of the cooking schools work this into their packages). There's also good nightlife -- you'll find the most farang orientated entertainment around the centre of town and along the Ping River. Locals tend more towards east Chang Mai (Nimmanhaemin Rd area) and to the north of town. Chiang Maians are a friendly lot -- if you want to check out the local scene, ask your guesthouse staff when they knock off and hit the town with them. Chiang Mai can be a lot of fun in the evening (and early morning).

Island Vacation | Chiang Mai Island Thailand

Regarding trekking, if you've got the time, you'll almost certainly have a more "authentic" (whatever that means) experience trekking from a less central location such as Mae Hong Son, Pai, Chiang Rai or Nan. But if you're set on trekking from Chiang Mai, then do so for as many days as you can afford -- three days at a minimum we'd say.

Two In One Travel

«Рекогнастировка на местности...» на Яндекс.Фотках

This post is a suggestion how to invent your next travel.

Imagine that you desire to have this or that object. We take a binocular as examle. You find information about different types of binoculars and think, one of them has to be very best for your aims. So, you visit the site of the main producer to find resellers of your zone and... understand you've never been in this country and in this city.

1 -We can imagine, the prices in the shop of the manufacturer have to be not so high as those of the resellers.
2 -if you have a wish to look for a last minute ticket, you can find great deals in internet.
3 -a weekend trip with 1-2 nights in that place can be not very expensive because you can find right prices in internet

Conclusion:
with the same money you have to pay for the object you desire not far from your home you can organize a trip in a place you did not see else and buy the object of your desires.

Two In One Travel, my friends. And I'm the rightful author of this invention. :0)))


«Через бинокль.» на Яндекс.Фотках

Island Vacation | Ko Ngai Island Thailand

The main beach on Ko Ngai is one of Trang's best -- a long sliver of white sand that looks out onto distant limestone karsts -- but as you might expect, it's also one of Trang's most developed beaches.

While tourism seems to have barely a toehold on other islands dotted off the scenic Trang coastline, it's fully entrenched on Ko Ngai, with barely a yard of beachfront left undeveloped.

The trend here is for full service upmarket spa resorts, and the budget options that were once the mainstay of Ko Ngai have been slowly squeezed out.

Island Vacation | Ko Ngai Island Thailand

For some, this smacks of the over development seen on Ko Phi Phi and Ko Samet. For others, it will be a welcome relief from the basic accommodation of the other islands.

Whatever your take, it's hard to deny the island's beauty. And you can take solace in the fact that most of the island is still left to nature -- evident in the pairs of noisy hornbills that occasionally swoop out over the beach.

Island Vacation | Ko Ngai Island Thailand

For some, this smacks of the over development seen on Ko Phi Phi and Ko Samet. For others, it will be a welcome relief from the basic accommodation of the other islands.

Island Vacation | Ko Ngai Island Thailand

For some, this smacks of the over development seen on Ko Phi Phi and Ko Samet. For others, it will be a welcome relief from the basic accommodation of the other islands.

With comfort minded resorts, Ko Ngai is a good option for families. In addition to providing rooms with hot water showers and 24 hour electricity, the island's resorts will be glad to provide enough activities for the whole family.

Island Vacation | Ko Ngai Island Thailand

For some, this smacks of the over development seen on Ko Phi Phi and Ko Samet. For others, it will be a welcome relief from the basic accommodation of the other islands.

The snorkelling is very good and there are ample reefs within easy distance, and, as with the other islands in the area, most resorts will organise snorkelling trips out to sites further afield.

Island Vacation | US Virgin Island Vacation

The U.S. Virgin Islands are a fast, worry-free Caribbean fix: An American territory, they're English-speaking, use the U.S. dollar, and offer a lot of choice in terms of what to do and where to stay and eat. The Virgin Island archipelago encompasses the three U.S. Virgins—St. Croix, St. John, and St. Thomas—and a number of smaller islands that lie south and west of the British Virgins. On the whole, the islands are small and closely spaced, making it easy to hop from one to another. The most visited, St. Thomas, has good airline connections and is home to the capital, Charlotte Amalie, a popular cruise-ship port. St. John, whose leafy hills and crystalline waters are largely incorporated into the Virgin Islands National Park, is a pristine nature lover's retreat. The most populous island, St. Croix, has its own distinct feel, with varied colonial architecture and old plantations and rum distilleries to tour.

Island Vacation | US Virgin Island Vacation

St. Thomas
Attractions & Activities

Charlotte Amalie is the busy port town, with rows of jewelry, clothing, and duty-free shops around Main Street, arty street fair merchandise at Vendor's Plaza, and the Fort Christian Museum. Beaches are the island's main draw; with a mile of white sand, the one at Magens Bay, on the north coast, is the longest, and it ranks among the world's prettiest. In the winter, cruise ship passengers abound, so be sure to visit between dockings (many businesses post weekly cruise schedules). Other notable beaches include Sapphire and Coki, both on the east coast.

Island Vacation | US Virgin Island Vacation

Lodging

On Condé Nast Traveler's Gold List of the best places in the world to stay, the Ritz-Carlton St. Thomas is the most luxurious of the island's big-name resorts. Like a grand estate, the main building has marbled arcades, elegant arches, fountains, and well-manicured grounds overlooking the picturesque Great Bay.

Spread over 15 hilly acres, the laid-back Point Pleasant Resort has 132 villa-style suites, each with a kitchen and a patio with water views of the neighboring British Virgin Islands. There are three small pools, and guests have access to the little beach fronting the next-door Renaissance Resort. The Point Pleasant's casual, funky restaurant Fungi's on the Beach is right on the water, and its Agavé Terrace has romantic bay views.

The small stone-and-stucco Hotel 1829, next to the Government House in Charlotte Amalie, was built as a residence for a prominent French merchant and is now a National Historic Site, with original Moorish tiling and a courtyard with overflowing potted plants and a bubbling fountain. The 15 atmospheric guest rooms have wood-beamed ceilings, bamboo beds, and hand-carved wooden shutters and doors. The alfresco restaurant is one of the island's best, with a creative menu, good service, and a prime view of the harbor.

You can be near both Charlotte Amalie and the beach if you stay at the sprawling Marriott, which is actually two properties. The Marriott Frenchman's Reef is huge, with tennis courts, a health club, water sports, and restaurants—all of which it shares with the more pleasant Marriott Morning Star Beach Resort. Smaller in scale, it has its own large pool, restaurants, and 96 rooms in five bright, cottage-style houses right along the water. The rooms are unremarkable, except for the private terraces with views of the bay or, less spectacularly, of the gardens.

Island Vacation | US Virgin Island Vacation

Dining

It's easy to miss the charms of Charlotte Amalie, the capital of the U.S. Virgin Islands, when you're standing between the shadows of the looming cruise ships and the mall-like harborfront. But drive some ten minutes along a winding road up green, breezy Government Hill, behind the harbor. From the 18 tables on the outdoor terrace at the colonial-style Hotel 1829, the patchwork of colonial buildings, forts, and even those leviathan liners suddenly becomes positively picturesque. The menu helps, with its old-world offerings—rack of lamb béarnaise, filet mignon au poivre—presented with old-school white-glove service (entrées, $20–$40).

St. John
Attractions & Activities

Columbus sailed by in 1493 and kept right on going. A few centuries later, Laurance Rockefeller went ashore and made major land purchases. In the mid-1950s, he donated 5,000 acres for the creation of the Virgin Islands National Park—which has since grown to 14,600 acres, a third of them underwater. Today, snorkeling and scuba diving its coral reefs, hiking its tropical forests to find pre-Columbian and plantation-era ruins, and of course combing its white sand beaches are some of the island's main activities (nps.gov). All the wet-and-wild wilderness action leads to the goings-on in Cruz Bay, the little capital, whose small streets, tiny restaurants, and little boutiques can lead to credit card damage.

Island Vacation | US Virgin Island Vacation

Lodging

Caneel Bay doesn't have a pool, in-room phones, or TVs, but the 170-acre property does have seven white sand beaches. Founded in 1956 by Laurance Rockefeller and set within the Virgin Islands National Park, the resort is all about low-key luxury. The other major resort on the island is the Westin, which caters to a mixed crowd, from honeymooners to families. Environmentally conscious guests will feel right at home at Harmony Studios, whose 12 studios are constructed of recycled material and powered by wind and sun. This natural living is truly affordable, so advance reservations are required—as is bug spray. The original green, rustic, and remarkably restrained place to stay on the island, Maho Bay Camps has 114 wood-framed tents.

St. Croix
Attractions & Activities
The Virgin Island with the biggest population (some 60,000 people) and the largest area (84 square miles), St. Croix may not see as many visitors as its more popular sisters, but it has its own unique attractions.

In the main town of Christiansted, you can trace the architecture to the Danish colonists who once ruled here. Many artists have galleries downtown, and some small jewelry designers have shops nestled along King, Company, and Strand streets.

Outdoorsy types head to Salt River Bay, a national park and popular kayaking spot on the site where Christopher Columbus dropped anchor in 1493. Another national park, Buck Island Reef, off the northeastern coast, is worth a half- or full-day visit for its extraordinary beach and underwater trail viewable by diving or on a glass-bottom boat tour.

Locals consider Cruzan Rum to be the finest on the planet. They may be biased, but a tour of the Cruzan Rum Distillery in Frederiksted makes for a good primer on the spirit that's been produced on these islands for more than 300 years.

Lodging
Just east of Christiansted, the Buccaneer claims to be one of the oldest resorts in the Caribbean, predating Alexander Hamilton's stay here in the eighteenth century. This is the best hotel on the island, and it's worth a visit at twilight to sip piña coladas at the Terrace Bar even if you don't book a room.

If you want all the homey touches that come with a condominium (a kitchen, multiple bedrooms, and plenty of common areas), the Gentle Winds Resort has 66 well-equipped units to choose from. The complex occupies a gardened spread on Columbus Cove, where the great explorer alighted on his second voyage.

Dining
Many who come to St. Croix stick to their resort at mealtime, but dinner at Kendrick's, the island's premier restaurant, is a must. Jane and Dave Kendricks's esteemed institution occupies an old stone palazzo, and the ambiance is a good match for the terrific food—indeed, some of the recipes have appeared in American food magazines. Try the saltimbocca fish, the duck dish of the day, and the amazing pepper soup (2132 Company St.; entrées, $23–$33).

Island Vacation | Hua Hin Island Thailand

Hua Hin has developed at quite a pace in recent times. Once the preserve of well-to-do Thais and select few foreigners, recent years have seen a major boom in building, both resorts, apartments and houses. The skyline now has a multitude of high rise condominiums, hotels and resorts. However, Hua Hin is one of the oldest, if not the actual oldest, beach resort in Thailand. Still, just because Hua Hin is "Thailand's oldest beach resort" doesn't mean it's Thailand's best -- it's not. It is still popular with Bangkokians and Thailand's royal family, it has been a resort since the beginning of the twentieth century, today the town is popular with foreign retirees, tour groups and Bangkokians escaping the heat and dust of the Thai capital some 200km north of here.

Island Vacation | Hua Hin Island Thailand

Hua Hin first appeared on the tourist map in the 1920's with the opening of the Thai-Malaysia train line -- the line runs very close to the coastline here, with Hua Hin train station only a couple of hundred metres from the water's edge, and it isdefinitely one of Thailand's finest. The location's beach -- at that time a largely undeveloped stretch of almost white sand -- made for a perfect rest-stop during the long journey south, and once the Railway Hotel (now the Sofitel Central Hua Hin) was constructed, there was a perfect place to stay as well.

The 1920's also saw the Thai royal family take a fancy to Hua Hin with the construction of Wang Klai Klangwon (Far From Worries Palace) under King Rama VII's watchful eye. Unfortunately the palace didn't help keep the worries at bay, and King Rama VII was in residence at Wang Klai Klangwon in 1932 when a coup in Bangkok brought Thailand's absolute monarchy to an end. In the past the palace has been open to the public when royalty is not in residence, but Thailand's current King now lives there full time so, unless you're on first name terms with the King, chances are you'll not be seeing inside.

Island Vacation | Hua Hin Island Thailand

With a fishing village heritage, a fine hotel and a royal seal of approval, Hua Hin developed over the subsequent decades into a very popular destination, but today it's past its prime and has shifted gears -- developing now into more of a retirement destination than a tourist hot spot. Indeed Hua Hin, as with nearby Cha-Am and Pranburi sees rising popularity as a place for foreigners to buy real estate in the form of condominiums (which, unlike land and houses, can be purchased outright by foreign citizens, with certain conditions) rather than as a place to go on holiday to.

The heart of the town is wedged between the train station and the beach, with the Sofitel to the south and the large fishing pier to the north. Everything within this area is within walking distance. The most interesting part of Hua Hin are the old squid piers that now house a bunch of (admittedly very ramshackle) cheap guesthouses -- this is the heart of the old fishing village Hua Hin, but you only have to walk fifty metres from here to be surrounded by tourist restaurants, bars and shops.

On the topic of accommodation, while Hua Hin is a less popular stop among independent travellers and backpackers, there's nevertheless a fine array of inexpensive guesthouses and cheap hotels to choose from -- especially clustered around the Soi 67 area in the southern reaches of town. Most of the options in the centre of town are either mid-range family orientated hotels or more upmarket digs.

Island Vacation | Hua Hin Island Thailand

When you first arrive in town you will be amazed that so much fits into a relatively small space. There are all the trappings of modern commercial cities, all the major multinational franchises are represented in town. McDonalds, Burger King, Starbucks and any number of pizza joints and coffee houses all vie for space along the main drag in town. If you want modern western comforts, fast food and coffee then you will not be disappointed. Also, it would be remiss not to mention tailors at this point. Hua Hin is riddled with tailor shops. Seemingly every 10 metres there is another tailor shop house. We counted at least 20 tailors in town. This is an extraordinary high percentage of tailors for the space available. The associated touts and annoying sales tactics are one side of Hua Hin which may bother some (but obviously works on others due to the huge number in operation).

Hua Hin boasts all the amenities of a modern Thai town, there is a train station, a bus station and an airport (which only services private flights now). There is a large central Post Office, Police Station and regular local government facilities. There is also on Phetkasem Road, a Thai/foreigner help centre which is useful for anyone staying any length of time.

For a town of this size, Hua Hin has a ridiculous number of foreign eateries and bars and there's a growing number of rather seedy establishments that would be more at home in Pattaya or Patong, but regardless of that, if you've a hankering for cheap western food, you'll not starve. If trawling seedy joints is your thing, then the town has what you need, just bear in mind that with the seedy side of life there is certainly more risk. Thefts, druggings and skullduggery are definitely features of this side of life in Hua Hin (and the rest of the seedier resorts in Thailand). As for traditional Thai food, having fishing village roots generally translates into good seafood, but in Hua Hin's case you're better off heading south to Ao Takiap -- a ten minute drive away -- for very good -- and more reasonably priced fare.

Island Vacation | Hua Hin Island Thailand

The best stretch of Hua Hin's beach sits in front of the Sofitel and Central Hotels, but is densely packed with deckchairs and touts -- the hassle factor is substantial, so if being offered a massage, a beer and a pineapple every five minutes bothers you, head further down the beach -- the further you go, the quieter it gets. Better still, hire a motorbike and head further afield -- the beaches in the surrounds are good and far less busy than the main strip at Hua Hin proper.

Hua Hin also serves as a good base for visiting the nearby Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park and Kaeng Krachan National Park (though the latter is more conveniently visited from Phetburi). Organised tours are available throughout town, or if you've your own transport, they're straightforward to reach.

Places Remembering Giordano Bruno

With this post I want to continue to follow the pathes of very important characters of the human history.

Here I begin with Giordano Bruno, a rebel monk. He teached different ideas that were against the doctrine of the church. First of all, he thought, the Earth turns around the Sun and not contrary. He thought, there are many planets similar to our Sun and the Universe is very big (Read this post too: What We Are In The Universe? )

The life of Bruno beginns not far from the place I live, near Nola, a not very big town behind Vesuv.

He studied at the monastery in Naples and 17 years old entered the Dominican Order. He did not want to follow the philosophy of the church and had his own point of view. For this heresy he had to run away from the church all his life. He changed many places but finished his life in Rome, where was burned at the stake by Roman Inquisition after 7 years of the prison.

Here you see the view on the zone where he was born with Vesuv in the background.

«Vesuvio» на Яндекс.Фотках

And this is the palace of the Inquisition in Rome, piazza dei Fiori, where Bruno was prosecuted. He was burned here too. The statue you see over here is situated in the same square too.

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Island Vacation | Ko Mun Nork Island Thailand

The blip of an island of Ko Mun Nork rarely finds itself on the itinerary of roving backpackers and travellers -- partly due to the cost of the resort, but also because it can only be visited as a part of an organised trip.

Ask many Bangkok residents though and you'll quickly hear some of the rave reviews Ko Mun Nork receives -- both as a romantic weekend getaway, but also for the occasional parties thrown on the island -- parties which are very much invite only.

Island Vacation | Ko Mun Nork Island Thailand

Private label raves and romantic weddings aside, Ko Mun Nork is certainly worth consideration -- particularly on weekdays when you could well have the entire island to yourself.

There's just the single place to stay -- the imaginatively named Ko Mun Nok Resort. Unfortunately the digs are not quite up to the standard of the island, and, as neither is the food, this is a place you come to for the beach and the beach alone.

Island Vacation | Ko Mun Nork Island Thailand

As far as pastimes go, there's the beach, the water and the salas -- that's about it! Yoga enthusiasts will be more than satisfied with some of the platforms dotted about, and there's apparently some ok snorkelling -- we never managed to leave our sala.

Island Vacation | Ko Mun Nork Island Thailand

It's odd really that the rooms are so average, as it is obvious that a lot of thought has gone into the beach salas and private wooden piers that jut out towards the water. Perhaps they exhausted all their creative juices before they got to the rooms -- and certainly before they got to the menu!

Island Vacation | Ko Mun Nork Island Thailand

That said, come here knowing the digs are not fab, pack some slabs of cheese, a few bottles of wine and a book or three and you've got all the makings of a sleepy weekend away.

Island Vacation | Ko Adang Island Thailand

Located 43 km west of Tarutao and 80 km from Pak Bara is Ko Adang, an island about 30 sq. km in size that is covered with forests and freshwater streams. An island supplied with fresh water year round, its strongest attraction is the green sea turtles that come ashore between September and December to lay their eggs.

Island Vacation | Ko Adang Island Thailand

Not to be missed places include an interesting hike along the east coast, which will lead to a pretty beach 2 km from the park station. Slightly further from this beach is a waterfall that was once used as a source for fresh water by passing pirate ships. Another waterfall is located at the west coast, 3 km from Laern Son (Pine Cape) where the chao náam village of Talo Puya is found nearby. Laern Son, which is on the southern tip of the island, also offers a thatched longhouse for visitors who wish to stay overnight. Alternatively, one can always camp under the stars!
Food, however, may pose a problem as the restaurant is considered expensive in comparison to the low quality of food served. It is better to bring your own foodstuff before setting off for this island.

Island Vacation | Ko Adang Island Thailand

Whether a day-trip from Lipe or an overnight, Ko Adang is ideal for travellers who seek a less-populated haven from beaches packed with sunbathing limbs in peak season. There are plenty of hiking trails, deserted white sand beaches, and waterfalls -- all accessible either on foot or by longtail.

Island Vacation | Ko Adang Island Thailand

Passengers are dropped off on the beach and can walk up to Adang's Information Centre. The park rangers speak varying levels of English and can provide accommodation and activity information. There's an information panel that describes some of the varied colourful coral around Ko Adang: Some look like flower, mountain, deer or cabbages. Snorkellers and divers with lesser imaginations still rave about the coral formations around Adang which have been reasonably well protected. Although one traveller recently noticed a group of youngsters trampling coral as they learned to swim. Snorkels can be rented for 50B, but keep an eye out for spiky sea urchins!

Island Vacation | Ko Adang Island Thailand

There are two waterfalls on Adang. Ratana waterfall is best reached by longtail boat -- the going rate at time of writing was 200B/person for the round trip. Toward the end of the dry season, from February to April, Ratana slows to a trickle, but Pirate's Falls, easily reached by a 2km walkway, is worth visiting any time of year. There's also a viewpoint which is an easy 6km hike across Adang. Longtails can be hired to sights on Adang and nearby small islands in Tarutao National Marine Park. Prices range from 1,500-2,500B per boat, so it's best arranged with a group.

It's easy to hire a longtail to Adang from Lipe. Drivers on Pattaya beach may start out at outrageous prices, but those on Sunset beach tend to charge the going rate of 50 - 100B/person (depending on group size). Ask the management at Porn Beach Resort for assistance in hiring a boat if there are no drivers waiting there.

The island has one restaurant that is open from 7:00 - 21:00. Food and drinks are cheaper than on Ko Lipe, but the menu is limited to simple Thai dishes and Western breakfasts. The restaurant also sells toiletries and pre-packaged snacks.

The Winter Festival In Edinburgh

If you look for the very best place for your winter vacation, you have to think about winter festival in Edinburgh, Scotland's Capital. This city has many sides that attract tourists to visit it all year round. Vaste gardens in the centre of the town, fantastic medieval buildings and castle, houses with ghosts and not at least the traditional kitchen do not leave indifferent any heart. But the festival in winter is something completely special. Book your Edinburgh accommodation not far from the Old Town and enjoy all the possible spectacles and activities just under your windows. It's no matter, are you alown, with your friends or have little children. You will find appropriate entertainment even for babies there, because there are special programs for people of every age during this festival.

Edinburgh is sparkling. In this Fairyland you are not only a spectator. You can combine skating on the largest UK ice rinks, sliding, shows on open air with excellent shopping. The rinks have parts dedicated to the little children, if you look for family activities. Fable characters will play with them, and you can taste plates of traditional kitchen nearby. You can book your Edinburgh apartments not far from the places of your interest in the Old Town or in the New Town and live directly in the middle of the feast. From there is easy to visit the Winter Wonderland, Ferris Wheel, the Reindeer Gardens and surely the Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle.

And don't be afraid to be not in time for the festival because it lasts for more than a month.

Tango In The Streets

I heard so much about persons dancing tango in the streets of Buenos Aires, and asked my husband to go in that parts of the city, where is it possible to film them. But he is unbearable. "No, I did not go there because you've said me I have not to look at other women". Ohhhh!!! I wanted to kill him!!!

I like folk dances. You will remember maybe my posts about dances of different nations -I will surely continue this collection).

Dances in the streets are surely not onlty Argentinian custom. During St. Patriks days we danced in the streets of Turin, for example. It was exciting. I like it!!!

I found these 2 videos in You Tube and hope you will enjoy the music and the brave dancers.

Gardens In The Muslim Culture

The first time I noticed the peculiarities of the Muslim Gardens was when I saw the mosque in Mariupol. There was a little garden with fountains, pathes made probably with white marble or other white stone near it. In other place there were white peacocks too.

I remembered that beautiful little mosque when I heard about the gardens, the Mughal Empirors built in India. Yes, I continue the theme I began in these my other posts
Arches Of Triumph
Temples Of Orchha

Residences were -and are today- with great gardens. In the garden on the photo here there are over four hundred fountains!

Shalamar Garden

I think, the summer residences of the kings in Europe in 1700-1800 were inspired by these Muslim gardens in India and Persia(about 1600-1700), because they thought, the governors in India and Persia were infinitely rich.
On the photos here are Petrodvorets (Russia) and Caserta (Italy)

Посмотреть на Яндекс.Фотках

«аллея» на Яндекс.Фотках

Now, the question is: WHY all these gardens in Mughal Empire?
Do you know the answer?
Not?
I will say it to you.
It was, for the Mughals, the representation of the Paradise, how it is described by Muslim religion (in Koran probably, but I'm not sure).

Russian Orthodox Church In Buenos Aires

It may be, you will not belive me, but my husband found a Russian orthodox church in Buenos Aires. The relatively old church, built in 1904 and adorned with icons and mosaics sent there by zar Nicholas II and Zarina Alexandra is situated in a beautiful park Lezama (or nearby).



This is a classical look of the Russian churches. They are built this way at least from X-th century. What I liked when I was in Russia last time, the modern churches have the same architecture. I see many modern Catholic churches here, in Italy. As for me, I would never pay the architects for such humiliations of the House of God. THEIR God, of those architects. A photo and my thoughts about it you can read in my post about the modern churches too.

Fortunatelly, Russian Orthodox Church as institution did not arrive at this point and their Houses of God continue to enjoy the eyes of the persons.

The Best Ever Vacation Planned And Booked Online

Finished the last vacation, we can just sum up the experiences and think about the next one. First of all, Planning Your Next Vacation Online is surely te most wise and time preserving way to find the best solution for the conditions you think you will have when you are free next time. You need only to be patient.

Begin the preparations visiting sites that have special offers. Online travel agencies, main pages of airline companies publish interesting suggestions that are often all-inclusive. I was surprized to know, it's possible to go in many places of my dreams paying really accessible sums.

The other reason why you have to begin your preparations just now, is that the prices of the flights are often not so high, if you book them some month before you have to fly. Visit all dedicated sites, and you will find a great offer waiting for you. This is my modus operandi, my personal system.

Once decided where you want to go this time, study all the attractions that are in the zone. It is very important. Yes, you can buy a map or a book about places of your interest. The problem is they are often too expensive or you have not time to look inside or -what unfortunatelly is very frequent- they are out of stock. And after all the efforts you have only general look at the place of your dreams.

There is a possibility to assure your vacation in a place you like, and to make money when you are at home. Those are Real Estate Investments, an interesting way to invest money.

Arches Of Triumph

«Рим. Арка Септимия Севера» на Яндекс.Фотках

I'm not sure but I think, the triumphal arches come from Ancient Rom (over here). At first they were built to celebrate victories in war, later to show how rich and powerful this or that governor was.

2 photos here (Moscow and Paris) represent the great wish to be similar to Romans in all times. What is interesting, not only Europe was afflicted by this megalomania. The last photo shows the most big triumphal arch of the world that you can see if you visit Fatehpur Sikri in India. The name of this construction is Buland Darwaza, that means "great gate".


«Триумфальная арка.» на Яндекс.Фотках


«Paris 2007январь» на Яндекс.Фотках


«Вид на величайшие ворота в мире - Буланд Дарваза» на Яндекс.Фотках

Temples Of Orchha

«Храмы в Orchha» на Яндекс.Фотках

In a documentary about Empires of India there was very interesting part about the temples of one of the princely states, existed here from 1501. India was devided in many little states in that period and had to stand the occupation of the mongols.

Our imagination that the raja were very rich and had very nice life comes from that times too.

The pantheon involved great number of gods in India, and it was the only thing common for all the states. That is the reason probably of so many temples, entire towns of temples.
What is interesting, the most muslim mongols were very tollerant in confront to the religions of the population. Many famous buildings like Taj Mahal are examples of this mix of the cultures.

While in Orchha you can see a temple of Indian architecture. The Lakshmi Temple(Wikipedia).