Saturday, August 2, 2008

General Pattaya

Romance of the Three Kingdoms Park

Situated close to the Horseshoe Point, the park contains several beautiful Chinese-style

buildings and art objects.
** Open daily from 8.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m.
Tel: 0 3842 1428.

The Bottle Museum
As the name implies, this is the place where you can find elaborate bottle creations, including
the usual vessels. Located at Km. 145, off of Highway No. 3, the museum features the work of
the Dutch master Peter Bedelais.
**Open daily from 10.a.m. until 10 p.m.,
admission fee is 100 baht for adults and 50 baht for children.
Call (038) 422957
Sanctuary of Truth (Prasat Satchatham)

The compound, which covers an area of more than two rais, is situated by the sea at Laem Ratchawet

on Na Klua Road, North Pattaya. Within the compound is a gigantic temple-like structure entirely made

of wood that is 105 meters high at the highest point which was constructed to withstand wind and

sunshine on the seashore. With exquisite architectural features, the sanctuary was conceived out of

the vision that human civilization has been achieved and nurtured by religious and philosophical truths.

**Open daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.,

admission fee is 500 baht with Dolphin Training Shows at 11.30 a.m. and 3.30 p.m.

Tel: 0 3822 5407, or visit http://www.sanctuaryoftruth.com/ for more information.

Pattaya Elephant Village
Located on Phonpraphanimit Road, which is off of Highway No.3 at Km. 145, the Pattaya Elephant Village
showcases daily life of elephants and their masters. It also offers stage shows, which demonstrate how to
catch wild elephants, elephants-at-work in the jungle, elephants playing football, a grand war, and
elephants' parades. Elephant rides around the village are recommended. The one-hour-long elephant
shows are held at 14.30 hrs.
** Contact the counter in the Tropicana Hotel, Tel: (038) 249145-7, 249818.
Elephant shows are also operated in other places. Most of them are located on Sukhumvit Road.
These include Ban Chang Thai Tel: (038) 70628-91, Utthayan Chang Tel: (038) 716379,
Thin Chang Thai Tel: (038) 756516, 756577, Suan Chang Tel: (038) 756517
and Farm Chang Thai Tel: (038) 237825.
The Million-Year Stone Park and Crocodile Farm

The Million-Year Stone Park and Crocodile Farm, which is located approximately 9 kilometers from Pattaya City,

has beautifully landscaped grounds with elaborate flower and rock gardens. In addition, the farm has hundreds

of crocodiles as well as some rare animals, including albino bears and horses.

**Crocodile shows, magic performances and animal shows run 6 times a day from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., the admission fee is 300 baht.

Call (038) 249347-9 or (02) 579 4008, 579 5033 for more information.

**How to go there

Getting there by car: Drive along Highway No. 3 (Sukhumvit) until you come to the Km. 140 marker near

Sawangfah Temple, then turn into Chaiyaphonwithi (Route No.3024) and proceed for 5 kilometers.

Hat Pattaya

The half-moon-shaped Pattaya Beach is 4 kilometers long with a road running parallel to the beach. From the

mid-section to the southern end of the area, there is a vast array of restaurants, bars, department stores,

souvenir stores, as well as other places of entertainment. To the north of the beach are various mini-resorts

and hotels in a quieter atmosphere. It's actually free to stroll along the beaches, but operators will charge you

for the services they provide, i.e. the beach chair.

**A price is roughly $0.5 per chair, though bargaining is rather customary in Thailand.

Ko Lan

Lying about 7.5 kilometers off of Pattaya by a 45-minute ferry or 15 minutes by speed boat ride, the island measures

2 kilometers by 5 kilometers and offers several white sandy beaches, notably Hat Ta Waen, Hat Laem Thian and

Hat Thong Long, the latter facing coral reefs. Visitors can choose either snorkeling or viewing the coral from glass

bottom boats.

**Ferries to the island leave South Pattaya pier daily from 10.00 a.m. to 6.30 p.m. Cruises by sailing junks,with

lunch provided are also available.

Monday, July 14, 2008

Chon Buri


Click for Pattaya brochure

Chon Buri The Nearest Seaside Retreat

Chonburi, Bangkoks nearest seaside town, is located on the eastern coast of the Gulf of Thailand, only 80 kilometers from Bangkok. The area boasts abundant natural resources, which are highlighted by delightful beaches, local colors, traditions, delicacies and fresh seafood. This is a popular resort among Bangkokians who seek the nearest escape from hectic weekly schedules as Chon Buri has something for everyone. In addition, Chon Buri is the center of the Eastern Seaboard Development Project, with its industrial parks and fishing villages.

Pattaya A Travelers Paradi

Pattaya is nestled along a picturesque bay on the East Coast of the Gulf of Thailand, roughly 170 kilometers southeast of Bangkok. From a fishing village in the 1960's, Pattaya has emerged as the favorite Southeast Asian vacation center. A fascinating escape where tourists, holiday makers and vacationers from around the world unfold an incomparable array of possibilities to unwind during an exotic holiday beach vacation.

Unlike other beach resorts, where natural surroundings are used as magnets to attract tourists, Pattaya makes an all-out attempt to provide the best of everything. Here, everything means everything a tourist can imagine while on holiday: recreation, entertainment, sports, sightseeing and fun. To put it simply, Pattaya is a paradise for everyone, as it has a variety of attractions suitable for all types of visitors. This is the place where you can fill your day, from dusk to dawn, with endless activities, or you may choose to do nothing at all and relax.

The Past

Pattaya's name was originated from the march of Phraya Tak (later known as King Taksin the Great) and his followers from Ayutthaya to Chanthaburi just before the fall of the Ayutthaya Kingdom to the Burmese invaders in 1767.

When Phraya Tak's army arrived in the vicinity of what is Pattaya today, he encountered the troops of Nai Klom who tried to intercept him. When the two leaders met face to face, Nai Klom was awed by Phraya Tak's dignified manner and his army's strict discipline, thereby surrendering without a fight. The place where the two armies confronted each other was later called Thap Phraya, which means the Army of the Phraya. This was later changed to Phatthaya, which happens to mean the wind blowing from the southwest to the northeast at the beginning of the rainy season. Today the spelling of the name has been simplified to Pattaya.

For centuries, Pattaya was a small fishing village almost cut off from the outside world. But a big change occurred on 29 April 1961 when the first group of about 100 American servicemen who would join the Vietnam War arrived in Pattaya for relaxation. Soon, sleepy Pattaya became Thailand's premier and most successful beach resort, which annually attracts hundreds of thousands of pleasure-seeking visitors. A full range of accommodations from super deluxe hotels to bungalows and mini-pocket guesthouses replaced fishermens huts along the beach. Fishing vessels were adapted to become tourist boats and swimmers and sunbathers from various parts of the world frequented the quiet powdery golden beaches. Places of nighttime entertainment have also sprung up and are popular among international tourists.

The Present

Pattaya currently integrates the delights of a 1st class beach resort, city-like dining, shopping and night entertainment facilities with more than 300 assorted hotels, thousands of shops, restaurants and bars. In addition, there are an array of sports and recreational activities including beaches, golf courses, tennis courts, go-kart, gyms for working out, weight lifting and Thai-boxing gear. Pattaya offers a broad range of things to do. During the day, one may enjoy riding elephants or driving humble automatic mini-bikes, monstrous motorcycles, or even monster multicolored convertible Jeeps. Others go for shooting firearms, scuba diving and surfing, deep-sea fishing, speed boats, scooters, water-skiing, parasailing, or aerial sports such as gliding ultra-lights and flying motor-propelled gliders. On the other hand, at night, there are restaurants, bars, theaters, cabaret shows, night clubs, bowling halls, billiard & snooker clubs, discos, sauna & massage parlors, not to cite its absolutely incredible shopping which is available non-stop both day-and-night.

Pattaya Facts

This exotic beach resort welcomes approximately 5 million visitors a year. The friendly and hospitable Thai nature boosts its promotion, frequently bringing back the repeat visitors and constantly increasing the number of newcomers.

Pattaya city is located on the eastern coast of the country at latitude 13 N and longitude 101 E in the area of Chon Buri province. It is 147 kilometers from Bangkok and lies parallel to Sukhumvit Road on its east and the coastline on its west. Pattaya occupies an area of 208.1 sq. km. that is divided into 53.44 sq. kilometers of land and 154.66 sq. kilometers of islands and sea. Its coastline is 15 kilometers long.

Pattaya has a plain on the coast with some high mountains to the south. The area on the east slopes down towards the sea on the west.

Administration

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

Wednesday, July 2, 2008

The International wax sculpture

The International wax sculpture
At Ubon Ratchathani Province
1 - 31 July 2008

Week 1 : 1 - 6 July 2008 "Visit the Artisan Community"
Activities

- Opening the 3rd International Wax Sculpture
- Visit to candle crafting communities and learn the insights into an ancient artistic
tradition and local culture.
- Gathering of art students from all art institute in Thailand.
- Activity "I-san Tourism Year"
- Start of wax sculptures by International artists.
- Displays of local flags, performances, pottery, etc.

Week 2 : 7 - 13 July 2008 "Global Cooling by Wax Sculpture"
Activities
- Wax sculpture made by representatives of 9 countries from Germany, China,
Japan, Turkey, Mexico, Ukrain, Luxembourg, Italy and India including
Ubon Rachathani local artist, work under concept "Global Cooling @ Thailand"
at Ubon Ratchathani National Museum.



Week 3 : 14 - 20 July 2008 "A Touch of Buddhism And Arts"
Activities
- 18 July 2008, The Buddhist Lenten Candle Procession parade.
- Wax Sculpture by International Young Artists from the Greater Mekong Subregion
: China, Myanmar, Lao PDR, Cambodia, Vietnam and Thailand.
- Enjoy light and sound Show, Miss candle beauty contest.
Broadcasting via www.tourismthailand.org on 18 July 2008

Week 4-5 : 21 - 31 July 2008 "Wisdom on Buddhism Land"
Activities
- Display of the Buddhist Lent Candle created by Ubon Ratchathani’s local artist
- Presentations of I-san flok performances and various kinds of food.
- Exhibition of 10 masterpieces created by 9 international artists plus 1 local artist at
the Ubon Rachathani National Museum. The exhibition will be until 31 July 2008.
- Melting the Candle Cerenony ; "Back to Emptiness" on 31 July 2008

For any further information
- TAT Northeastern Office : Region 2
Tel. : 0 4524 3770-1, Fax. 0 4524 3771
Email : tatubon@tat.or.th
- Events Planning Division, Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT)
Tel : 66 (0) 2250 5500 ext. 3475-77
Email : eprodiv@tat.or.th
- TAT call center 1672
- Website : http://www.thailandwaxcarving.com/
www.tourismthailand.org

Tags : Candle Festival, Pha Khao Laeng, Ubon Ratchathani, wax sculpture

Friday, May 23, 2008

HRN Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn Herb Garden


PTT Public Company Limited (PTT) has planted and established the first herb garden of Thailand since 1984 on the 60-rai area with the objective to conserve and develop the natural resources for people in the next generation. Various kinds of herbs are gathered and planted in the garden, which was later presented to HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn on 18 April 1985. The landscape was developed and more herbs were planted and the 50th Birthday Anniversary in honor to HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn Building was built on the auspicious occasion of the Princess 50th Birthday Anniversary in 2006.

HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn Herbs Garden comprises of 2 parts:

1. The Herb Garden
The garden of more than 260 medicinal herbs of about 20,000 herb trees which can be divided into 20 groups according to their medical properities. The garden serves as the source of Thai Herbal knowledge and the place for recreation.

2. The 50th Birthday Anniversary in honor to HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn Building
It is the exibition hall where visitors can enjoy interesting knowledge about Thai herbs shown through various multimedia, exciting and encouraging the desire to learn more. The exhibition hall consists of:
- The Adventure of the Whirling Rubber Seed Room
- Thai Energy Save the World Room
- 4 essential elements of a person body room
- The Conservationist Princess Room
- House of the Village Doctor
- World of Herb Room

The Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhon Herbal Garden is located within the grounds of the Petroleum Authority of Thailand, about 25 kilometers from town on Highways No. 36 and No. 3191 in Nikhom Phatthana sub-district. It is not only a center where various herbal plants are put on display the place as well engages in herbal research. Open daily except Monday from 9.00 a.m.- 4.00 p.m. Tel: 0 3891 5213-5 Fax. 0 3891 5216.


Saturday, May 10, 2008

Suphattraland

Thirty kilometres from town is Suphattraland, an extensive orchard open to the public. It grows succulent mangosteen, durian and rambutan. They generally mature in late April-June. Visitors can enjoy not only the pleasant surroundings but also taste for themselves freshly-picked fruits from the trees.

How to go there

Open daily from 08.00-18.00 hrs. Admission is 200 baht per person. Admission including a meal is 350 baht.

Ask for more information at Supattraland Office Tel : 0 3889 2048-9 Fax : 0 3889 2255.

Wednesday, May 7, 2008

Khao Chamao - Khao Wong National Park

The last piece of virgin forest in Rayong, the park is located in Klaeng District, 71 kilometers from the city. Declared as a National Park in December 31, 1975, Khao Chamao – Khao Wong covers an area of 83.6 square meters, which is home to tigers, wild elephants and bears. The park is famous for its limestone mountains, caves, high cliffs, verdant forests and waterfalls. Khao Chamao –Khao Wong National Park offers the following attractions:

Namtok Khao Chamao


Namtok Khao Chamao is situated approximately 17 kilometers off of the main highway at Km. marker 274. The main attraction and landmark of the 8-tiered waterfall is "Wang Mutcha” a large pond on the second level which is the habitat of Pluang fish. Reaching the top is easy and visitors can enjoy the refreshing scenery all the way up to the highest level of the waterfall.



Namtok Klong Pla Kang


Located some 3 kilometers from the National Park Office is this 7-tiered waterfall. Reaching the top of the waterfall is not quite an easy task as visitors have to walk through the verdant forest and also climb up the mountains. Plant lovers should not miss this opportunity to see several kinds of plants such as ferns, orchids, mushrooms, etc., while walking along the trails.

Pha Sawan (Heaven Cliff)


Pha Sawan is situated about 1,500 meters from the Park’s Office. The cliff is famous for its scenic lookout point which offers an intriguing panoramic view of the pristine forests. Various types of plants can be found along the way up to the cliff and are ideal for nature studies.

How to go there


Camping sites are available at the price of 10 baht to pitch personal tents. Bungalows are also available (8 all together), at the cost of 800 baht/bungalow and have to be reserved well in advance. For more information, call 038 894378.

Monday, May 5, 2008

Suan Son beach (pine trees)

This beach is located approximately 4 kilometers from Ban Phe. Travel along the beach-front road and visitors will find a place that offers true relaxation under the shade of pine trees. The scenic beach is eminently suited to relaxation and swimming. Accommodations and food shops are also available.

Foods

Sunday, May 4, 2008

Rayong Aquarium

Located in the Eastern Marine Fisheries Research and Development Centre, Ban Phe, the aquarium keeps various kinds of beautiful fish and sea plants. The centre conducts study, research and testing regarding marine biology and behaviors of marine life. A large aquarium with a tunnel allows visitors to see various beautiful fish as well as economic-related creatures living in the mangrove forest such as cuttlefish, crab, giant clam, and horseshoe crab.


The outdoor aquarium also houses various marine life. The turtle pond houses hawksbill turtles, olive turtles, and leatherback turtles. The fish pond houses large species of fish. Visitors can witness the real underwater world in a special pond that houses starfish, anemone and sea cucumber.

Various fishery tools in miniature are also displayed. The Fossil Museum exhibits stuffed and extinct animals as well as a display of rare animals such as humpback dolphin and Irrawaddy Dolphin. Seafood products are available on sale outside the building.


The Rayong Aquarium is open from Wednesday to Friday during 10.00 a.m. to 4.00 p.m. and on weekends from 10.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. Group visitors should call in advance. Tel. 0 3865 3741, Fax. 0 3865 1763

Wednesday, April 30, 2008

Laem Mae Phim and Ko Man Nai

Laem Mae Phim

This cape can be reach either from Sukhumvit Road by taking a right turn at km. markers 259.5, 263 or 268, or proceeding further for another 1 kilometre from Wang Kaew on the beach road. This is a perfect spot either for relaxation and swimming or sampling local foods. To the north of the cape is a small off-shore isle named Ko Khi Pla.

Ko Man Nai

This small island located approximately 5 kilometers off shore from Laem Mae Phim has been developed into a Sea Turtle Preservation Sanctuary under the royal initiative of Her Majesty the Queen. The place is open to the public from Monday to Sunday. Nearby are Ko Man Klang and Ko Man Nok which are famous for their immaculate white sandy beaches and hip boutique resorts.

Resorts on Ko Man Klang and Ko Man Nok offer accommodation packages that include boat transfer from the Rayong pier and three meals / day. Call to book your place in advance at 02 860 3025-6. The boat trip takes only 30 minutes from the pier.

Tuesday, April 29, 2008

Beach in Rayong

Hat Mae Ramphueng

This 12-kilometre stretch of white sandy beach is a perfect place to enjoy the scenery while swimming. The beach trails along the way to meet Ban Kon Ao, where a small fishing community can be found. Accommodations and restaurants are available.

Hat Laem Charoen

This beach is located 5 kilometers from the city and is a popular area among the locals and tourists as it is the location of many great seafood restaurants.

Hat Phayun and Hat Phala

Hat Phayun and Hat Phala are located approximately 32 and 34 kilometers respectively from the town of Rayong. Shaded by pine trees, the beaches offer unique opportunities for tourists to unwind in tranquility. Hotels and bungalows are available as perfect hideaways.

Map

Sunday, April 27, 2008

ko samet ( samet island)

A favorite get-away island for Bangkokians, Ko Samet offers extensive pristine beaches with clean white sand and strangely shaped rocks. A haven for relaxation, this T-shaped island is a perfect retreat for those looking for sun, sand and sea. The climate is always pleasantly cool with an abundance of rain in August and windy monsoons in May.

There are a wide range of accommodations on the island with prices at the low-end starting from 200 baht for a bungalow with basic amenities, while bungalows with furniture and air-conditioning may start at the rate of 600 baht. Mid-range hotels and resorts mostly located around the Hat Sai Kaew area are also available. Reservations for accommodations should be made in advance as the place gets crowded especially during the festive season.

Attractions on Ko Samet include:

Hat Sai Kaeo

หาดทรายแก้ว

One of the most beautiful and most popular beaches on Koh Samet, Hat Sai Kaew is 1 kilometer long and 25 – 30 meters wide. The name speaks for itself, Hat Sai Kaew, which literally means Crystal Sand Beach, is a nice beach filled with activities. From dusk to dawn, visitors can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, jet skiing, windsurfing, riding on a banana boat or even partying at night.

Accommodations provided include bungalows and villas.

Ao Noi Na

อ่าวน้อยหน่า
Ao Noi Na, which is located near Hat Sai Kaew, has different ambience. It is quieter and therefore more suitable for those looking for a truly relaxing experience on the white, clean sandy beach.

Ao Hin Khok


Ao Lukyon


Ao Hin Khok is separated from Hat Sai Kaew by a small rocky sea point where a mermaid statue is located. The beach, which is half the size of Hat Sai Kaew, is famous for its strangely shaped rocks. There are inexpensive bungalows/huts located along the beach, and also value-for-money restaurants providing fresh, quality seafood dishes.

Ao Pai

Ao Phai


Located close to Hat Sai Kaew, Ao Pai is therefore quite crowded. For visitors interested in sunbathing, this is the ideal place as swimming is not recommended as there is whirlpool on the sea, as designated by the red flag.

Ao Phutsa


อ่าวตะวัน


Ao Put Sa is a small bay on Koh Samet which draws repeat visitors intent on relaxing. Suitable for those who are tired of crowded beaches and nightlife activities, Ao Put Sa offers a quite retreat that reunites visitors with nature in its crystal clear waters.

Ao Thapthim


อ่าวทับทิม

Ao Tub Tim, which is set in a tranquil atmosphere, is located near Ao Put Sa and is well known for its white sand and clear water. Ao Tub Tim has a small, cozy resort, which provides nice services in a well decorated compound.

Ao Nuan


Ao Nuan


Ao Nuan is located near Ao Put Sa and is a perfect hideaway for holidaymakers in search of tranquility.

Ao Wong Deuan

หาดวงเดือน

Ao Wong Deuan is the second largest beach on the island (the first being Hat Sai Kaew). Ao Wong Deuan attracts tourist groups during both the high and low seasons due to its beautiful white sandy beach and good accommodations. On top of this, good seafood restaurants with nice views are also available.

Ao Thian (Candlelight Beach)


อ่าวเทียน


Ao Thian’s topography is painted by rocky beach in which some nice spots for skin diving are available. This beach is very quiet and free from group tours with bungalows and resorts available around the beach area.

Ao Wai

อ่าวหวาย

Ao Wai is located within a short walking distance of Candlelight Beach. Shaded by coconut trees, the beach is a quite, scenic and serene spot for sea lovers.

Ao Kiu Nok


อ่าวกิ่วหน้านอก


This bay is a perfect secluded den for those planning to keep their distance from the busy, crowded beaches and vibrant nightlife. From Aow Kiew Nok, visitors can actually walk to Aow Kiew Nai which is the ideal spot to see the spectacular sun rise and sun set.

Ao Karang


อ่าวกะรัง

The best place to experience the traditional lifestyle of the residents of Koh Samet is at Ao Karang where there also are a number of seafood restaurants providing fresh seafood dishes at reasonable prices.

Ao Wiang Wan


Ao Wiang Wan is located on the west of Na Dan Pier, a large bay where lots of sport activities such as fishing, etc. take place.

Ao Phrao


หาดคลองพร้าว


Ao Prow is one of the quietest beaches of Ko Samet. Located quite far away from the lively nightlife of Ko Samet; Ao Prow is preferred by travelers who quietly enjoy the deep blue sea and white sand in the sunshine. Ao Prow has a long white sandy beach which is ideal for swimming.

How to get there:

Four operators; namely, Nuanthip, Si Ban Phe, Phe Port, and Saphan Pla, around Ban Phe offer shuttle boat services between their ports and the main port of the island. All operators charge a flat rate of 100 baht per person for a round trip or 50 baht for a single journey. Boats can leave anytime when more than 20 passengers are waiting. The service is available around the clock, seven days a week.

For groups of at least 7 persons, Nuanthip Boat (0 3865 1508) offers a shuttle boat service to other bays as well, such as Ao Wong Duean (120 baht each) and to the last bay Ao Pakarang (200 baht each). Si Ban Phe Boat (0 3865 1902) also runs a scheduled boat service during weekends between Ban Phe and the main port of Samet. The hourly boat service from Ban Phe runs from 8.00 a.m. to 6 p.m. In the return trip from Samet, the boat leaves at 10.00 a.m., 2 p.m., 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. The company also offers a speed boat service at 1,000 baht a trip for 12 people to the main port, or higher rates for other routes. A parking service on the main land is available.

Getting around on Ko Samet: The island has only a single road. Some parts are concrete and some parts are only a dirt trail. A pick up truck offers a passenger service to the desired beach. The fee depends on negotiation, ranging from 20-100 baht each. Chartered service to get around the island costs between 200-1,500 baht.

Attractions on Ko Samet and Nearby:


Most beaches are on the eastern side of the island. The beaches hide in small bays and stretch some 200 metres. From the north, there are Hat Sai Kaeo, Hat Hin Khrong, Hat Khlong Phai, Ao Phutsa, Ao Thapthim, Ao Naun, Ao Cho, Ao Thian, Ao Wai, Ao Kio Na Yok and Ao Karang. The only beach on the western side is Ao Phrao. One of the famous beaches is Ao Wong Duean in the middle of the eastern side. This beach stretches in the shape of an almost complete circle. Both Ao Wong Duean and Hat Sai Kaeo have very fine white sand.

Ko Kruai, Ko Kham, and Ko Pla Tin

These islands are some 600 metres north of Ko Kudi. With coral reefs, tourists can enjoy fishing here. A rental boat service is available at the port in Ban Phe.

Ko Kudi or Ko Kut

The island is on the east of Ko Samet, six kilometres from the mainland. Ko Kudi totals an area of 63 rai. A nice beach and coral reefs make it a nice place for a hideaway. Nearby islands are Ko Thai Khangkhao and Ko Tham Ruesi. Without accommodation, the national park office on the island offers a tent for rent at 200 baht per person/ night. Pitching a private tent requires paying a fee of 20 baht per person/night. For more information, call Tel. 0 3865 3034, or in Bangkok at Tel.0 2561 2919 and 0 2561 2921.

Ko Thalu

Some 6 kilometres east of Ko Kudi, the island is another scuba diving site among coral reefs. The island totals an area of 69 rai, most remains lush forest. While high cliffs occupy the west, white sandy beaches occupy the east and south of the island. Ko Thalu is a habitat of seagulls, flying fox, and turtles.

Tourists visiting Ko Kudi, Ko Kruai, Ko Kham, Ko PlaTin and Ko Thalu should rent a boat from Ban Phe or Ko Samet. They should prepare food and water, as there is neither facilities nor food supplies available on such islands.For more information, please contact Ireland Tour co.,Ltd., Tel. 0 3865 3055-9