World Of Tourism

With my very best wishes to everybody for 2009. May the New Year be good to all of us!Con mis mejores deseos a todo el mundo para 2009. Espero que el Año Nuevo sea bueno para todos nosotros!

Today, for the first time in several days, the freezing fog in Nairn lifted and we even had sunny, but still bitterly cold, spells in the afternoon; however the freezing fogs have resulted in the pretty frosting on all the trees and grass in the area as we have had no snow in the last few weeks. Well wrapped-up, I took a stroll up into the town today, then down onto the shore path, to get some

In life, being in the right place at the right time can come down to serendipity, but in travel, it is almost always the result of good planning.

To avoid crowds and inflated prices, we recommend the period between high and low seasons when the weather is fine, places are still open and happy to welcome travelers, and you can explore a destination at your own pace. We call this magical time and space continuum the Sweet Spot and make it a point to round up the best of them for you each season.

We've covered the 20 best places to travel for value this winter and grouped them by region — follow the links to right to discover this season's Sweet Spots

Winter forecast: With the exception of its southernmost terrain, the U.S. and Canada experience the colder side of winter. Cool breezes from Canada spill into the northern United States, serving as a tailwind for southbound vacationers. The Rockies see a surge in ski traffic, while Florida celebrates the end of hurricane season. Regardless, seasonal shopping overtakes New York and Chicago, spreading holiday cheer.

1. AUSTIN
The music starts at the airport, but that’s not all this hip, funky Texas capital city has to offer. Consistently ranked as one of the most livable cities in the U.S., Austin embraces film, cuisine, and its outdoor terrain equally.
Why go in winter: You’ll find more package deals and fewer crowds during winter months, yet the weather still hovers around a pleasant 65 degrees. The best deals can be found in December, including during the holiday period.

2. LOS ANGELES
As the frontier of the American Dream, laid-back Los Angeles allows visitors to be a pampered star, an earnest culture vulture, a die-hard foodie, and anything else their heart desires. Head here for celebrity sightings, super shopping, and the chance to mix with the beautiful people.

Why go in winter: Spotty rains, temperatures in the mid-60s, and that trademark West Coast sunshine clear Los Angeles of its usual smog halo during the winter months, making for picturesque cityscapes, room discounts, and comfortable celebrity-spotting from Beverly Hills to Hollywood. Don't miss the Rose Bowl Parade in January, and starch that bowtie for the all-important Academy Awards come late February.

3. MAINE
From its towering mountain summits to its sandy seashores, Maine offers diverse year-round activities for vacationers of all stripes. Maritime sites abound, romantic inns flourish, and family fun spots thrive in all regions. Stay south for sparkling beaches and quaint coastal villages, or trek north for rugged, untouched wilderness.

Why go in winter: Holiday time is bustling in harbor villages, but not bursting at the seams with tourists. Winter snows bring calm to the coast, but droves of skiers shush down the slopes in Kennebec and Moose River Valleys and huff along the Nordic trails in the Highlands.

4. NEW ORLEANS
The Big Easy is a delectable gumbo of red-hot jazz, historic streetcars, lacy French-colonial balconies, powdery beignets, and zesty Cajun cuisine. Its unique blend of Southern hospitality, eccentric tradition, and unabashed debauchery give it a distinct character unlike anywhere else in the United States. The city’s tourism infrastructure – especially in the relatively unscathed French Quarter – has largely recovered post-Katrina.

Why go in winter: Daytime temperatures in the mid-60s and fewer crowds make winter a comfortable time of year to visit New Orleans. Winter is also quiet and less crowded, though New Year’s Eve draws crowds who come for the fireworks and the ball drop.

5. PARK CITY
Host to several events in the 2002 Winter Olympics, this chic resort town invites outdoorsy types to go skiing, sleigh riding, snowshoeing, ice skating, hot-air ballooning, or even bobsledding down the same track used in the Olympics. But Park City also offers plenty of entertainment for the more laid-back crowd: lounge at the Egyptian Theatre on historic Main Street, stroll through 20-plus art galleries, or debate between 100-plus bars and restaurants for a dinner destination.

Why go in winter: An early ski season in a place with near-perfect snow conditions is a bargain hunter's dream come true. Three easily accessible premier ski resorts offer bargains to jump-start the season, and the town is dripping with alpine holiday spirit.

for more:http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/28056073/

St Regis Resort is a 5-star grand property presenting a zone of luxuries and modern comforts. Set amidst natural serenity in Bali, this elegant property offers world-class amenities and services to cater to the requirements of business as well as leisure travelers. Refined accommodations, dining restaurants, and meeting halls are some of its major facilities. Giving an equal importance to

With sweeping views across Roebuck Bay, the Mangrove Resort is less than 10 minutes walk to the centre of Chinatown, Broome.

Roebuck Bay in the summer provides a theatre for the amazing sunset skies and spectacular lightening shows. 2 swimming pools, bar and restaurant facilities on site and cafes close by. Includes complimentary airport transfers.

Stay 4 nights/Pay 3 nights - Executive Room - $615.00. Valid: 1/1/09-31/3/09.
Stay 5 nights/Pay 4 nights; Stay 7 nights/Pay 5 night packages also available. (Max 2 free nights).

For more information contact Best Of The Kimberley Freecall 1800 450 850.

A belated greeting to anyone who passes this way with my best wishes for a Peaceful and Joyous Christmas. When I began writing this post a few hours ago I was just sitting down, at long last, with my feet up on a foot-stool to watch the last half hour of J S Bach's Christmas Oratorio in a recording from 2000 at the Herderkirche in Weimar being broadcast over the past several days on BBC4

Located only a short walk from Cable Beach, Seashells Resort Broome offers a range of self-contained accommodation in 1, 2 or 3 bedroom fully self-contained apartments and bungalows nestled amongst tropical styled gardens.

The free-form swimming pool is the perfect place to relax on comfortable sun-lounges while the family play in the separate children's paddling pool and play area. A perfect family get-away!!!

Stay 5/Pay 4 - 1 Bedroom Apartment - $840.00. Valid 1/11/08-31/3/09 (excludes 20/12/08 ro 4/1/09).

For more information contact Best Of The Kimberley on Freecall 1800 450 840.

A serious security flaw has been found in Microsoft's internet browser Internet Explorer (IE) affecting the latest version IE7 - apparently Microsoft are working urgently on a fix, but until this is released it is being suggested that users switch to a rival such as Firefox.I tend to use Firefox most of the time anyway (and have done so for about 3 or so years), as I've never liked IE and find it

The Spanish government has announced it plans to invest 33bn Euros in 'Public Works' during 2009, with 19bn Euros to be spent on transport infrastructure, 5bn Euros on environmental policies and 8bn Euros to be spent in local authorities: 'pork' anybody?There are several things to say about this; the government wishes to try and reduce the likely future rise in unemployment, as has been happening

Cable Beach Club Resort is now offering a fabulous 'half price' special for stays from 1 December 2008 to 31 March 2009*. The discounted rate applies to Pool View Studios, Pool Terrace Studios, Ocean View Studios, Villas and Suites. No minimum stay. Includes airport transfers.

There is no better way than to 'chill out' over the summer than to laze around the cool pools at the Cable Beach Club Resort.

Cable Beach Club Resort's Stay 5/Pay 4 special summer package also available.

To plan your summer escape, call 1800 450 850 or visit the Best of the Kimberley for more information.

*excludes 20 Dec 08 to 4 Jan 09 & 1-27 Feb 09

Chachoengsao or Paet Rio is located on the east of Bangkok. Its fertility is due to Bang Pakong River. It is an important venue for agricultural products in the Central Region, with mango as the most popular fruit of the province. Moreover, it is the location of the sacred Phra Phutthasothon Buddha image.

Derived from Khmer, the name Chachoengsao means deep canal, while the name of Paet Rio (Paet means eight and Rio means stripes) has been believed to have come from the way dried fish (which are abundant in the area) were being pierced into eight stripes.

The history of Chachoengsao dated back since the Ayutthaya Period during the reign of King Phra Borom Tri Lokkanat. Most people live along the banks of Bang Pakong River and canals. Phra Phutthasothon or Luang Pho Sothon is the center of beliefs and faith. In the past, Chachoengsao was a small town, and was upgraded to a province in 1916.

Chachoengsao is 80 kilometers from Bangkok, with the area of 5,351 square kilometers. The local administration is divided into 10 Amphoe (district) and 1 King Amphoe (sub-district), namely: Amphoe Muang, Bang Khla, Bang Nam Prieo, Bang Pakong, Ban Pho, Phanom Sarakham, Sanam Chai Khet, Plaeng Yao, Ratchasan, Tha Takiap, and King Amphoe Khlong Khuean.

Geographical Location

In general, the areas are plains with forests along the sea coast. In the east, in Amphoe Sanam Chai Khet, the areas contain highlands and mountains, with the attitude of 300 meters above sea level.

Attraction

Wat Sothon Wararam Worawihan

This temple is in the municipal area by the Bang Pakong River. Built in late Ayutthaya Period, with its original name of “Wat Hong”, it is the location of Phra Phutthasothon or Luang Pho Sothon, the important Buddha image in the attitude of meditation with a width of 1.65 meters and a height of 1.48 meters high. According to the legend, this Buddha image had been floated along the river, before being placed here at this temple. The original image was a beautiful Buddha image, but later on cement was placed on the image to prevent from burglary. Worshippers from all walks of life come to pay respect to this most reputed image by pasting gold leaves on the image.

The present chapel (ubosot) is a new, beautiful, and gigantic building which has replaced the old one. The chapel actually depicts the style of the applied Rattanakosin period.. The operating hours are during 07:00 –16:15 hrs. weekdays and 07:00 – 17:00 hrs. weekends. Moreover, there are many stalls for food and local souvenirs. Long-tailed boat service to and from the city market and the temple is also available.

Wat Chin Prachasamoson

Wat Chin Pracha Samoson (Wat Leng Hok Yi) is another Chinese temple of Wat Leng Noei Yi in Bangkok. It is on Supphakit Road, far from the City Hall about 1 kilometer. The interesting points in the temple are Chinese warrior sculptures and the ceremonial hall (viharn) with Chinese arts. It is also a popular site for Chinese religious ceremonies.



Khlong Suan Market
Situated on the banks of Prawetburirom Canal, Khlong Suan Market lies in two provinces: Tambon Thepparat, Amphoe Ban Pho, Chacoengsao Province and Tambon Khlong Suan, Amphoe Bang Bo, Samut Prakan Province. This traditional market dates back to the reign of King Rama V. The market contains many different shops, which are getting rare these days, since they are increasingly being replaced by modern convenience stores and shopping malls. More than 100 years old, it still retains the quaint charm of the old days. Visitors will be pleased with the traditional market atmosphere while enjoying a great variety of tasty food.

In the past, the market was most conveniently accessible by boat. There was only one passenger boat service from Chachoengsao to Bangkok, serviced by Nai Loet (Mr. Loet). The boat picked up passengers at Chachoengsao, ran past Khlong Suan Market, and eventually arrived at Pratu Nam (Water Gate) in Bangkok.

The market is still an important community centre, transit point for commuters, and cargo port. The market is also a centre uniting the spirit of the Thai, Chinese and Muslim people who lived peacefully in the same area, as can be seen from the architecture of its temples and mosques, and a Chinese canteen offering free vegan food for people. In addition, its people always cooperated in developing the community’s infrastructure, for instance digging canals and building roads. Though they were of different religions, they have always enjoyed morning cafe get-togethers to share ideas, experiences, news and politics. The coffee shops have always been lively community meeting places.

The local governmental organizations of the two provinces support the preservation both of the community’s buildings and simple way of life. In addition, Khlong Suan Market has been promoted to the status of cultural attraction, of which visitors are welcomed to experience its idyllic atmosphere dating back to the reign of King Rama V.

Getting there:
By car – from Bangkok, take Motorway Expressway, and follow the signs for ‘100 Year Old Khlong Suan Market’, or take On Nut – Chachoengsao Road, drive past Latkrabang Institute of Technology, continue straight, and Khlong Suan Market will be on the left.

For further information, contact Tambon Thepparat Municipality, Amphoe Ban Pho, Chachoensao, tel. 0 3859 5633, 0 3859 5716, or Tambon Khlong Suan Municipality, Amphoe Bang Bo, Samut Prahan, tel. 0 2739 3253, 0 2739 3329, 0 2704 1273.

City Pillar Shrine

Located on Na Mueang Road, the shrine is featured by the Thai architectural style with 4-sided roofs and a tower (Prang) in the center. Inside, there are 2 city piles which were built in 1834 and 1895. In the same compound, there is Chao Pho Lak Mueang Shrine, which is highly respected. Operating hours are from 07:00 16:00 hrs.






Wat Pho Bang Khla

This temple is 23 kilometers from Chachoengsao. Using highway No. 304 for 17 kilometers, then turn left to highway No.3121 for 6 kilometers, pass the Monument of King Taksin the Great, then turn left 500 meters. Also, another route is to travel by boat from Chachoengsao town at Tawan Ok Plaza pier, and land at the pier of the temple. There are many bats on trees during the day and fly out to search for food during the night. And even though fruits are their favorites, these bats never eat fruits grown by Bang Khla people.

Khao Ang Rue Nai Wildlife Sanctuary
Khao Ang Rue Nai Wildlife Sanctuary is the conserved forest covered 643,750 Rai (257,500 Acres), located in the forest in the junction of 5 provinces: Chachoengsao, Chonburi, Rayong, Chanthaburi, and Prachin Buri. This fertile forest is the last of the east. General landscape is about 30-150 meters high above sea level. It is the origin of Bang Pakong River in Chachoengsao, Khlong Tanod in Chanthaburi, and Prasae River in rayong.

There are many kinds of wild animals and birds. Ang Rue Nai Waterfall is about 2 kilometers from the Guard Unit. Traveling: From Chachoengsao, go to Pahnom Sarakham first, and then use highway No.3245 to Tha Takiap, after that go to Ban Nong Khok for 57 kilometers, and use the route to Wang Nam Yen of Sa Kaeo for 15 kilometers. Tourists who love nature should contact Wildlife Conservation Division, Forestry Department (Tel: 579-9446) in advance.

Khao Hin Son Development Education Center
Khao Hin Son Development Education Center is at the 51st-52nd kilometers on highway No.304, 17 kilometers far from Phanom Sarakham, with the area of 1,869 Rai. This is the education center for new agricultural development, with the cooperation of public and private sectors. The area inside has been divided for demonstration and experiment for farmers and other people.

Many projects are: land development, livestocks, fishery, arts, and herb garden. “Eastern Botanical Garden” has been established to study and conduct research for plants and herbs. Herb sauna is also available in Wednesday-Thursday and Saturday-Sunday with 20 Baht fee. More information, contact Tel: 280-6198 – 200 or (038) 59-9105-6.

Somdet Phra Sri Nagarindra Park
This public park is in front of the City Hall, in the area of 90 Rae (36 Acres) which features a large swamp in the middle. Surrounded by various types of trees, the park is most suitable for relaxation.

Thailand Sand City
Situated next to Carrefour Supermarket in Chachoengsao downtown, the World Sand Sculpture commemorates HM King Bhumibol’s 80th Birthday. This exhibition shows displays exquisite craftsmanship in the gigantic sand statues which were created by over professional 70 sculptors worldwide from the Netherlands, Belgium, Ireland, the United States, Czechoslovakia and Thailand. More than 30 pieces are exhibited on 4.8 acres of land, making this the world’s largest indoor sand sculpture exhibition.

The exhibition is divided into 3 sections:
1. Sand sculptures concerning HM the King
Sculptures in this zone extol HM the King and his many good works and dedication to his country and people.
2. Sculptures depicting Thai history and literature
This is a very interesting exhibit in the dark, with stunning light and sound effects.
3. International Sand Sculptures
This zone is dedicated to sculptures drawing source material from worldwide sources, including the Eiffel Tower, Big Ben, the Statue of Liberty, Brandenberg Gate, Van Gogh’s work, wind mills, etc.

Sand City is open every day from 10.00-19.00 hrs. Admission is 80 Baht for adults and 40 Baht for children. For further information, contact the Office of World Sand Sculpture, tel. 0 3851 5120 or -5121.

Maenam Bang Pakong
Maenam Bang Pakong or Bang Pakong River is originated from Korat plateau, pass Prachin Buri, Amphoe Bang Nam Priao and Bang Khla of Chachoengsao, and exit Thai Bay at Amphoe Bang Pakong with the distance of 230 kilometers. The three hour trip of 25 kilometers starts from Chachoengsao town to view the local Thai nature along both banks.

The route passes some interesting places such as Khrommakhun Maruphong Siriwats Residence, ancient fortress and walls, previous City Hall, old rafts, many Wats, and landed at Wat Pho Bang Khla to view the spectacular sights of the bats. Tourists can hire boat at the pier of Wat Sothon Wararam Worawihan or in town. The long-tailed boat can accommodate 8-10 people, and 40 people for a big boat. The hiring rate can be bargained due to number of passengers and distance.

Ancient Fortress

Located on Suk Kasem Road, this site was built in the reign of King Rama III. During the reign of King Rama V, this fort was used to fight against the Chinese riots. At the front of the fortress, there is a public park suitable for viewing the scenery of the Bang Pakong River. Also, many old cannons can be seen along on the wall.




Monument of King Taksin the Great
Monument of King Taksin the Great The monument has been built as a memorial site to commemorate King Taksin passing Chachoengsao after the fall of Ayutthaya in 1767 to restore Thailands independence. It is told that at this location was formerly a stupa built for his victory over the enemies. After that, it was demolished in 1931. And eventually the new shrine was constructed in 1988.

Mango Orchards
Chachoengsao is the venue for the most favorite fruit in Thailand which is mango. With the area of 86,000 Rae or 34,400 Acre, mangoes are grown mostly in Amphoe Bang Khla and Plaeng Yao. The most popular species are Raet, Khiao Sawoei, Chao Khun Thip, and Thongdam. The mango season is in March, which the mango Festival will be held annually.

Tourism Authority of Thailand : http://www.tourismthailand.org

If you love sun, sea and sand, then Goa is the perfect holiday retreat for you with indiaprofile.com. Goa is the ideal romantic destination for the vacationers. Dotted with the churches and impressive edifices, this city boasts of its natural beauty. The ocean waves lapping on the sandy beaches draw thousands of travelers to Goa from all over the globe. Holidays to Goa will definitely be a memorable experience, which you will cherish all your lifetime.
Beaches of Goa
The long stretches of sandy beaches of Goa fringed with swaying palm trees are the major highlights of Goa. At both the north and South Goa, you will find the sun kissed beaches. Some of the popular beaches, which are largely visited by the tourists, are Anjuna Beach, Arambol Beach Agonda Beach, Calangute Beach, Colva Beach, Dona Paula Beach, Miramar Beach, Palolem Beach and Vagator Beach. The beaches of Goa are ideally suitable for the adventure sports like water skiing, parasailing, wind surfing, water scooter and river cruises.

Cities and churches of Goa

Visit the churches to get an insight about the cultural richness and the historical background of Goa. You can site the churches at the cities of Panaji, Mapusa, Margao, Pilar and Vasco da Gama. Some of the major churches, which can not be missed are Basilica of Bom Jesus, Reis Magos Church, Se Cathedral Church, Church of St. Francis of Assissi and Church of St. Paul.

Shopping in Goa

During your holidays to Goa, you can go on a shopping spree and buy various interesting items. The beaches and the local shops are the best places for shopping in Goa. The interesting items, which you can buy from Goa, are handicrafts, shell work, carved furniture, brassware, crochet, terracotta, bamboo work and papier-mache.

Fairs and Festivals in Goa

If you visit Goa during the time of festival, then you can enjoy your trip to the fullest. The beaches are known for its multihued and eventful carnivals. The Goa carnivals are attended by thousands of tourists from all over the world. Some of the Goa´s very own festivals include Kalas Utsav, Novidade, Zatra of Shri Shantadurga, Bonderam Festival and Goa Carnival.

Cruises in Goa

Book the cruise journey and spend some thrilling and exciting moments amidst the lakes and rivers of Goa. The various cruises, which are arranged in Goa, include the following:

Sunset Cruise
Backwater Thrills
Dolphin Fantasy Cruise
Full Moon cruise
Sundown cruise
Pearl of the Orient
Pleasure Cruise
Casinos in Goa

Goa is synonymous with casinos, where you can try your luck and play games like blackjack, roulette, baccarat and craps. Some of the premier casinos in Goa, which are largely frequented, are the following:

Renaissance Goa Resort and Casino
Holiday Inn Goa Resort
Las Vegas The Gaming Club Leela Palace Hotel
Cidade de Goa Beach Resort and Casino
Haciencda De Oro Casino & Pub
Advani Pleasure Cruise Company
Treasures Casino Majorda BeachResort

Hotels in Goa

You can choose from the diverse type of goa hotels to fit your requirements, preferences, taste and budget. Some of the premier hotels in Goa include Renaissance Goa resort, Majorda Beach resort, Dona Paula Beach Resort Fort Aguada Beach Resort, Bogmolo Beach Resort, Aguada Hermitage, Baywatch guesthouse and Bambolim Beach resort.
source:http://www.americanchronicle.com/articles/82903

Bangladesh is an ideal destination if you are planning for vacation comprising of natural beaches and lush green forests. Bangladesh is one of the most beautiful places on the earth. The capital of this country is Dhaka. There are many places of attractions you would love to visit when you are vacationing in Bangladesh. You could go horse riding on the secluded beaches, enjoy the cloud-reaching mountain at Bandarban by taking a gentle walk up. Bangladesh has wonderful wildlife too. Spotted deer, Royal Bengal tigers, crocodiles, sea turtles and so on are a common sight in Sundarbans. There are many roaring elephants existing in Chittagong Hill Tracts. A few of Bangladesh vacation packages include beach tourism, tiger-watching packages, honeymoon packages and many more. Cox's Bazar and Sundarbans; competing to be top of world 7 natural wonders, are exclusively popular tourists' haunts

Bangladesh is a tropical land with many popular tourist attraction spots. There are pristine beaches, national parks, ancient palaces, mosques, temples, churches and wildlife. There are many tourist packages which offer different kinds of sightseeing opportunities. A few interesting and a must see destinations are listed below.

Cox's Bazar is one of the major attractions of Bangladesh. The mesmerizing land of beauty and beaches, Cox's Bazar attractions has been charming travelers across globe since a very long time. The magnificent plethora of sights and sounds that can be experienced in Cox's Bazar is simply fascinating and awe-inspiring. With Cox's Bazar Travel Guide, a vacation in Cox's Bazar will become easy and smooth. Cox's Bazar offers a wide range of activities and things to do and to enjoy during your vacation.

Sundarbans, "the beautiful forest" is a virgin forest which until recently owed nothing to human endeavor and yet nature has laid it out with as much care as a planned pleasure ground. Here land and water meet in many novel fashions. Wild life presents many a spectacle. No wonder, you may come across a Royal Bengal Tiger swimming across the streams or crocodiles basking on the river banks. For the botanist, the lover of nature, the poet and the painter this land provides a variety of wonders for which they all crave.

You can get cheap deals on flights to Dhaka throughout the year, and once there, the cost of living is amongst the lowest in the world, making Dhaka, and Bangladesh as a whole amongst the best value destinations in the world.

Dhaka is friendly and relatively clean in the posh areas. There are many sights to attract visitors. The most important sights are the Lalbagh Fort, the National Assembly Building, the Baitul Mukkaram Mosque,National museum,Savar smiti saudo,shahid minar, national gardens, zoo & many more important places to enjoy.

Bangladesh enjoys moderate tropical climate. A vacationer could either stay in a hotel or a motel. If he is planning to stay for a longer time in Bangladesh with his family or close friends it would be ideal to rent out a guest house or a flat. The reason is a vacation home; that is "a home away from home".

It would be a good idea to move around Bangladesh with your constant vehicle. Renting a car is a good option. There are many companies offering car rental and hiring services. You could negotiate your rates with them.
source:http://nation.ittefaq.com/issues/2008/11/28/news0764.htm

A gang of smugglers, thought to have been active for around 4 years and during which they are thought to have smuggled in excess of 30 million counterfeit Euro banknotes (mainly 20 and 50 Euro denominations), has been broken, with seven arrests made recently (5 in Lugo and 2 in Coruna). Other arrests, upto 20, have been made elsewhere including in Alicante, Murcia and Malaga.The counterfeit

COAST-TO-COAST, USA
The TransAmerica trail is a cycle-touring classic. Try all or parts of the 6835km from Astoria, Oregon, on the Pacific Ocean, to Yorktown, Virginia, on the Atlantic. Like the great American dream, it spans the continent - its mountains (including the 3518m Hoosier Pass in the Rockies), its prairies, its greatest river (the Mississippi) and the forests of its national parks (Yellowstone, Grand Teton). Better yet are the farms, people and home cooking of rural America. Ground winds will catch you eastbound and westward; the pedalling is best between May and September.


EUROPEAN VINEYARDS
There's magic in those hills. Squeeze it from the grapes growing in precisely planted rows and the result is the world's greatest wines. Ride it on two wheels and the days pass in sweet wonder. Most of Europe's peerless vineyards are accessible via public roads, often part of designated wine routes. In France, plunge into the fields of Champagne, Burgundy and Bordeaux. In Italy, Tuscany's hills help burn off culinary dalliances. You won't lose your way in Germany's steep-sided Mosel River valley. Summer's best, but harvests are in autumn.

TOUR D'AFRIQUE

Think you've cycled it all? Looking for a challenge? How about a mountainbike tour of Africa? Start in northern Egypt with your handlebars pointed south; the Cape of Good Hope is only 12,000km and 10 countries away. Not up to organising the odyssey? Join the Tour d'Afrique, the world's longest (120 days) and most gruelling bicycle event. It next sets out in January 2009 and it's a fully supported charity ride. Go self-propelled from Cairo to Cape Town through villages, deserts, mountains, fertile valleys and wildlife-rich savanna. Beware of elephants!

EUROPEAN ALPS

Europe's spine of snow-capped Alpine peaks draws the national borders of Italy, France, Switzerland, Austria and Slovenia. Human engineering has defiantly incised zigzag surfaced roads - some of Europe's highest - up and over dividing mountain passes, dozens thrusting up above 2000m. Here, dedicated cyclists test their mettle, and champions in Europe's greatest two-wheel road races are acclaimed and shamed. The mountain passes'

names alone are inspirational: Croix de Fer, Galibier, Izoard, Iseron, Simplon, Grand-Saint-Bernard, Furka, Umbrail, Stelvio, Gavia, Grossglockner, Otztaler. They'll take your breath away. Literally.

AMERICA'S GREAT DIVIDE MOUNTAIN BIKE ROUTE

This behemoth of a pedal, with more than 60,000m of elevation gain, isn't for the faint-hearted. It's a ride of staggering remoteness and beauty, covering areas replete with wildlife and arresting vistas. Declared the longest off-pavement route on the planet, the full Great Divide Mountain Bike Route criss-crosses (up and down every day!) the continental divide for 4363km from Banff, Alberta, in the Canadian Rockies to Antelope Wells, New Mexico, on the Mexican-American border. Limited services mean planning, endurance, mechanical proficiency and some backcountry skills are indispensable. Travel in summer, but prepare for harsh weather.

PAN-AMERICAN HIGHWAY, CENTRAL & SOUTH AMERICA

It's epic - about 14,000km through 12 countries. Although it begins in Alaska, the Pan-American Highway from Mexico City claws through every kind of geography and climate imaginable - from lush jungles to frigid Andean mountain passes - on its way to Ushuaia at the Tierra del Fuegan tip of South America. But for the impassable Darien Gap between Panama and Colombia, the highway makes it possible to keep two wheels to the ground on an extraordinary intercontinental trek. Expect fierce Patagonian winds, drenching rains and tar-bubbling heat, as well as the open-armed welcome of people along the way
more visit:http://www.theage.com.au/travel/worlds-top-10-best-cycling-adventures-20081210-6vmz.html

With the treat of global warming and over development destroying natural habitats, there are many stunning areas of the world which may be ruined or disappear totally in the next few decades. Throughout Africa and the Caribbean lie some of the world’s most fascinating cultural, historical and natural treasures; however, many of these sites are sadly struggling to survive.

According to a new book 500 Places to See Before They Disappear, we only have in some cases a couple of decades to visit some of the world’s wonder before they vanish. So where are the greatest gems in Africa and the Caribbean we should visit now? Here are the top five locations to see.

1) Tanzania, East Africa

Tanzania is home to the incredible, 610m deep, Ngorongoro Crater. The 30,000 animals that live there are unable to climb its steep slopes so, amazingly, have evolved to co-exist within the natural ‘enclosure’ of the crater. This is one of the rare locations that the critically endangered black rhinos dwell, of which less than 3,800 remain in the world.

2) Bonaire, Caribbean

Located near Venezuela, Bonaire is the Caribbean’s most Southwesterly island, and it is due to its remote nature, that Bonaire boasts one of the most pristine coral reefs in the world. Teeming with lustrous marine plant-life and rainbow-coloured fish, Bonaire's coast has been legally protected since 1979, enabling it to maintain this unblemished aquatic habitat. But with over 80 diving sites, around the 111 square miles of land, concerns are that its increasing popularity could lead to irrevocable damage to the fragile reef structure.

3) Namibia, Southwest Africa

Situated on the Southwest coast of Africa , Namibia with its burnished-red desert plains is a stunning natural landscape.

4) Negril, Jamaica, Caribbean

Considered one of the world’s most dazzling stretches of sand, Negril beach was originally targeted for the formation of tourist resorts, back in the 1950s
These developments, involving the dredging of sea-grass beds and the relentless destruction of coral reefs, have left the coastline susceptible to wave erosion, with the beach declining at an alarming pace.

5) Madagascar, off the south east coast of Africa

Madagascar is a country in a league of its own. This enchanted isle lies in the Indian Ocean, off the Southeast coast of Africa and is the world’s fourth largest island.The unrivaled biodiversity of Madagascar is extremely precious, but since the arrival of humans on the island, 15 species –including the pygmy hippo– have already been wiped out. Slash and burn agriculture is the fundamental cause for this crime against nature; and with the continuation of deforestation, many of these extraordinary creations are in severe danger of falling victim to the same catastrophic fate.

Slovakia will become the 16th of the current 27 members of the European Union to adopt the Euro as its currency on 1 January 2009. The fixed conversion rate between the Euro (EUR) and the existing Slovak national currency (SKK) is €1 = 30.1260 SKK.The 15 EU countries currently using the Euro as their currency are: Austria, Belgium, Cyprus, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy,

Cruise aboard "True North" on its new "Southern Safari" cruise! The maiden "Southern Safari" cruise from Adelaide - Ceduna - Adelaide was an outstanding success and is being established as an annual adventure option. All cabins on the 2009 departure are being offered at 50% discount!

The cruise itinerary includes touring the McClaren Vale's best wineries, visit Kangaroo Island, seeing great white sharks, explore beautiful Coffin Bay, going to a 'tuna rodeo' and fishing at Pearson and Franklin Islands.

Experience 8 nights from just $3,748 per person, twin share, with all activities, fine dining plus return airfare from Ceduna to Adelaide at the conclusion of the cruise.

Cruise departs Adelaide on 10 January 2009. Contact Best Of The Kimberley on 1800 450 850 for availability or cruise itinerary.

walkway at Turi

in front of the beachside villa's

Sunset in front of Turi Resort.

rocks and sand around Nongsa

Nightstall near Nagoya Hill Shopping Centre

leaving Nongsapura Ferry Terminal

GENERAL INFORMATION OF BATAM ISLAND

Batam is one of the 3,000 islands, which make up the Riau Archipelago and is closest to Singapore, which is only 20 km away or twenty minutes by air-conditioned ferry. It has a rapid-growing population of around 100.000. As the island develops into a major industrial and tourist area, it attracts an ever-increasing population from other Indonesian islands who see Batam as a haven of opportunity. Once almost uninhabited, save for a few scattered fishing communities, Batam's history took a sharp turn beginning 1969, when it became support base for the State-owned 'Pertamina oil company' and its offshore oil exploration. In 1971 a presidential decree designated it as an industrial area and in 1975 the Batam Authority was formed. In 1978 Batam was established as a bonded area.

In addition to the oil support industries of Batu Ampar and a fast growing electronics industry, Batam now attracts increasing numbers of tourists. Many come from Singapore for a short holiday with friends and family, duty-free shopping and great seafood. The visitors to Singapore hope over for a day or weekend trip.

Photo Tourism Of Pasir Putih Beach Situbondo East Java,Indonesia

As I wrote last week the mayor of Mazarron and two other officials have been indicted on charges of alleged misappropriation of public money for which sentences are being sought by the prosecution of 6 years for the mayor and 5 years and 5 months for the other two, with disqualification from the holding of public office for 10 years for all three.The recipient of the allegedly fraudulent payments

1. Taj Mahal, India

The Taj Mahal in Agra is surely the world's most beautiful place in which to push up daisies. The 17th century Mughal emperor Shah Jahan built the mausoleum in memory of his favourite wife, Mumtaz Mahal, using white marble from Rajasthan, crystal from China, turquoise from Tibet and sapphire from Sri Lanka.

2. Pyramids of Giza, Egypt

These pyramids on the outskirts of Cairo may date back to around 3,200 B.C. but they're as space age as tombs get. They pierce the sky, unperturbed by crowds of hustlers, camels and camcorder-toting tourists. An estimated 20,000-30,000 workers built the pyramids, the largest of which is constructed from over two million blocks.

3. Dogon Tombs, Mali

A craggy mass rears up from the sun-bleached plan, one of West Africa's most stunning sights. This is where the remote Dogon tribe lives. Most extraordinary in this extraordinary place are the tombs. These are tiny buildings set into cliffs, often halfway up, with no discernible method of approach.

4. The Non-Catholic Cemetery, Italy

This overgrown garden is a surprise in a busy corner of Rome. Romantic poets Keats, who died at the unripe age of 26, and Shelley are buried here. The garden is dominated by a sharp-tipped pyramid: the fanciful tomb of a Roman general with a penchant for Egyptology.

5. Hollywood Forever Cemetery, United States.

These immaculate lawns and stately memorials are the final picture for much of Hollywood royalty. The glamorous graves at the back of Paramount studios are a veritable Milky Way of departed glitterati, including Rudolph Valentino, Douglas Fairbanks and Mel Blancs, the voice of Bugs Bunny whose tombstone reads: "That's all folks".
6. The Catacombs of Rome, Italy

Ancient Roman law forbade burial within Rome city limits. Most Romans were cremated, but early Christians were buried in a series of endless, echoing underground tunnels, out near the old Roman road, the Via Appia. This underground death complex is Rome's most haunting sight - now empty of bodies but retaining early Christian frescoes, altars and icons.
7. Pere Lachaise Cemetery, France
The world's most visited cemetery has a star-studded afterlife gathering, with residents as diverse as Edith Piaf, Marcel Proust, Oscar Wilde, Honore de Balzac and Isadora Duncan. It was founded in 1804, but languished until the management had the bright marketing plan of moving here the remains of famous people, such as Moliere, to attract business.
8. Tomb of Pacal, Mexico

In the foothills of the Chiapas mountains, lie the remains of the ancient Mayan city of Palenque, set in a tangle of jungle. It is a place of cinematic splendour, complete with rolling mist and thick undergrowth. The city's most famous monument is the Tomb of Pacal (Pacal was the city's 7th century founder-king), which is located within the glorious Temple of Inscriptions, a steep, stepped pyramid.
9. Hartsdale Pet Cemetery, United States

In 1896, Dr. Samuel Johnson, a vet, offered his apple orchard to a bereaved friend as the burial place for his dog. Today, Hartsdale, in New York, has 70,000 graves, including those of some famous war dogs, and a memorial to the Red Cross dogs that served during World War Two. Famous owners who have interred their pooches include Mariah Carey and Diana Ross.

10. The City of the Dead, Egypt

This is the most curious cemetery in the world: not only a city of the dead, but of the living. Chronic housing shortages in Cairo have driven families to live in tombs in the large cemeteries on the city's outskirts. Traditionally, Egyptians buried their dead surrounded by rooms, so that relatives could live in them during the long mourning period. These are now occupied by squatters who use the gravestones as tables.
source:http://www.theage.com.au

Delhi is a momentous city and a graceful capital. New Delhi the third largest city of India is a synthesis of the ancient and the modern. Delhi is a magnificent place to explore with your family and friends. Delhi has been a most important tourist destination and is the ideal holiday option for your tours to India.In the middle of the obligation visit places during your tours to Delhi are its monuments, museums, galleries and other places of interest. Right from shopping to visiting the attractions, a New Delhi tour is certain to chuck up many wonderful moments for you to appreciate. Each occurrence, all sound, every stench shouts that you've arrived somewhere magical. Delhi is the exact place to shop for all persons who love shopping. Delhi has abundant enormous shopping complexes.

The second characteristic is the Yamuna floodplains; New Delhi fabrication west of the Yamuna river, although for the most part, New Delhi is an interior city. East of the river is the urban area of Shahdara. The temperature varies from 40 degrees Celsius in summers to around 4 degrees Celsius in winters. Delhi has a semi-arid weather with high distinction between summer and winter temperatures. One of the Famous bazaars I tartan out was Palika Bazaar on the south side of Connaught Place. There were electronics/camera/phone shops, souvenir shops, clothing shops, and DVD/video game shops. As in all of the bazaars, the shop owners were continuously asking me to come take a look. It’s derivative how the structure most essential to modern Indian democracy came up as an addition. Earlier called the Circular House, it was added to the arrangement at a later phase following the reforms which created a large governmental Assembly.

Its effect from a distance has been described. It resembles a Spanish bull-ring, lying like a mill-wheel dropped accidentally on its side. Today they house the chambers of the Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha (Upper House) and the library. The boundary wall has blocks of stonework impressed in geometrical patterns that echo the Mughal jalis.To obtain a visitor’s pass to Sansad Bhawan, Indian nationals should apply to the Parliament Secretariat. Foreign nationals should apply through their embassies or high commissions.

India Gate is constructed as a memorial and was built in the memory of 90,00 soldiers who laid down their lives during world war I. Located at Rajpath, India Gate is 42 m high and is popular relaxation area during the summer evenings. India Gate also act as popular picnic spot during winter. Also known as the All India War Memorial, India Gate was designed and constructed by Lutyens. Who is considered the chief proclaimed in designing the New Delhi plans? Facing the elephantine arch of India Gate is a classical version of the chhattri or cenotaph so dear to Hindu kings and the sure symbol of regality in India. Lutyens possibly designed it as a token gesticulation to keep the King who wanted oriental features happy. But chances are he would silent have favored to describe it as an open cupola or a baldachin.
source:http://www.itvoir.com/portal/boxx/modules/blogs/Blog-Detail.asp?BlogID=5400

I have now uploaded and 'tweaked' the new blog template. It seems to look alright on several PCs I have checked it on, but if you notice any unexpected effects in your browser, please let me know. Thank you.

Ang Thong, a province, which is luxurious of native handicraft like, molded court dolls, firebrick, and wickerwork. It is also the origination of Li Ke, the native folk song, hometown of Nai Dok and Nai Thongkaeo, the two heroes during Bang Rachan Battle. Ang Thong is also abundant with more than 200 clean, magnificent, and interesting temples, most appropriate for Thai chronological study.




Ang Thong, originally known as Mueang Wiset Chai Chan, is located on the Noi River and the low-lying land of Chao Phraya River. It is an essential frontier outpost of Ayutthaya when fighting with the Burmese. As appeared in several parts of Ayutthaya chronicles, especially, prior to the defeat of Ayutthaya in 1767, the Burmese encamped at Mueang Wiset Chai Chan to attack Ayutthaya causing Bang Rachan Battle, a noted event recorded in Thai history. Later during the Thonburi era, Mueang Wiset Chai Chan was moved to a new site on the left bank of the Chao Phraya River at Ban Bangkaeo and was named Ang Thong since its location was a fertile basin similar to a water and rice bowl of the country.

Ang Thong is a small province located at the lower part of central Thailand as large as 968 square kilometers. Topographically, almost all of the Ang Thong area is low plain with two important rivers crossing the province, i.e. Noi River and Chao Phraya River. Ang Thong is administratively divided into 7 Amphoes: Amphoe Mueang Ang Thong, Amphoe Wiset Chai Chan, Amphoe Sawaeng Ha, Amphoe Pa Mok, Amphoe Pho Thong, Amphoe Chaiyo, and Amphoe Samko. Borders are Sing Buri to the north, Ayutthaya to the south, Ayutthaya and Lop Buri to the east and Suphan Buri to the west.


Distances from Amphoe Muang to neighbouring Amphoes :

Amphoe Pho Thong 11 kilometers
Amphoe Pa Mok 12 kilometers
Amphoe Wiset Chai Chan 13 kilometers
Amphoe Chaiyo 15 kilometers
Amphoe Sawaeng Ha 25 kilometers
Amphoe Samko 27 kilometers

Distances from Ang Thong Province to other Provinces nearly :

Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 31 kilometers
Sing Buri 40 kilometers
Suphan Buri 44 kilometers
Lop Buri 67 kilometers

ATTRACTION

Wat Ang Thong Worawihan

Is located on the east bank of the river. This is the third-class royal monastery opposite Ang Thong City Hall. Originally, there were 2 small temples located next to each other called Wat Pho Ngoen and Wat Pho Thong constructed in the reign of King Rama IV. Later in 1900, King Rama V had these 2 temples combined into one and graciously named it Wat Ang Thong. This temple is famous for its beautiful ubosot and bell-shaped chedi decorated with gold mirror. Groups of neatly lying Thai monks' compartments are made of teak exhibiting the arts in early Rattanakosin period.

Wat Tonson

Is located on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River opposite Ang Thong Technical College. Wat Tonson is an ancient temple housing Somdet Phra Si Mueangthong, a very beautiful seated Buddha image in the posture of subduing Mara with the lap size of about 14 meters wide and 19 meters high molded in metal and gilded. Wat Tonsons abbot, Phra Ratchasuwanmalee, started the construction in 1973. Her Royal Highness, Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn performed a ceremony to complete the construction on March 7, 1985. This is regarded as the one of the largest metal molded Buddha images with beautiful posture.

Drum-Making Village

Is located in Tambon Ekkarat, behind Pa Mok market on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River. Take the inner road passing Amphoe Pa Mok Municipality Office running parallel to the irrigation canal for approximately 17 kilometers. From time to time, drum shops can be found on both sides of the road. People of Ban Phae have begun producing drums since 1927 after the harvesting season. The raw materials used are cowhide and rain tree wood because its texture is soft and able to be dug easily.


We can observe drum-making procedures starting from lathing wood, laying cowhide sheet, and embedding pins. We can find sophisticated and magnificent drums here in various sizes, good for souvenirs. If you go passing the Tambon chief's (Hongfah Yodyoi) house, you will find the largest drum in the world of 3692 cm wide and 7.6 meters long, made of 6 pieces of connecting Albizzia lebbek. It was built in 1994 and taken about one year to complete.

Wat Pa Mok Worawihan

Is located in municipal Tambon Pa Mok on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River approximately 18 kilometers away from Amphoe Mueang. Take Highway No. 309 (Ang Thong Ayutthaya route) at Km 40, then take Highway No. 329 and 3501 to find a signage to Wat Pa Mok. In the temple compound, there is a beautiful gilded reclining Buddha made of brick, and plaster. The image is 22.58 meters from the topknot to the feet. It is assumed to have been constructed in the Sukhothai period.

Legend of this Buddha image was that he floated along the river and sank in front of this temple. People offered sacrifices to the Buddha image before pulling him from the river to house on the riverbank. In the royal chronicle, it is mentioned that before leading his army to attack Phra Maha Upparacha, King Naresuan the Great stopped at this temple to gather his troops and paid homage to the image.

Due to the erosion on the riverbank near wihan, King Sisanphet III commanded Phraya Ratchasongkhram to lead the removal of Buddha image from the riverbank. King Thai Sa controlled this removal and invited the Buddha image to enshrine in the new wihan in Wat Talad, 168 meters away from the river. Later the King commanded to merge Wat Talad and Wat Chipakhao into one temple and renamed as Wat Pa Mok due to the abundance of Wrightia religiosa (Mok) trees all around. Besides the reclining Buddha, this temple is famous for wihan Khian, where the wall confronting to the river has a tall stand formerly used by the King, mondop of 4-foot prints, and tower of monastic library, etc.

Wat Tha Sutthawat

Is located on the east bank of the Chao Phraya River in Tambon Bang Sadet. This ancient temple was constructed in the early Ayutthaya period. During the war, this site was the trooping route for the army crossing the Chao Phraya River. Take Ayutthaya Ang Thong route (Highway No. 309) Km 38-39, the temple entrance will be on the left side approximately 17 kilometers before reaching downtown Ang Thong province. At present, this temple is under the royal patronage of Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn.

The temple compound is shaded with large trees exhibiting magnificent scene over the bank of the Chao Phraya River. The royal pavilion stands in the middle of the pond. Chedi (pagoda) exhibits ancient Buddha images and historical relics. Monuments of King Naresuan the Great and King Ekathotsarot are besides the pavilion. Inside the ubosot, Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn had her personal painters and drawers from the Royal Folk Arts and Crafts Project draw the mural paintings illustrating Phra Maha Chanok, history of Ang Thong province. Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn graciously drew a mango on this temple wall as well.

Wat Khun Inthapramun

Is located in Tambon Inthapramun. It is an ancient temple constructed in the Sukhothai period. Considering the original line of brick remains, it is estimated to be a large temple. The largest and longest reclining Buddha in Thailand, 50 meters from the topknot to the feet, is enshrined here. Originally, the reclining Buddha image was housed in the wihan, but this temple was on fire and was left deserted with the Buddha image in the open for centuries.

The image features and size are similar to those of Phranon Chaksi, a reclining Buddha image in Sing Buri Province. Therefore, it is assumed to have been constructed in the same period. The image possesses attractive Buddha features with a serene smiling face attracting respectfulness and faithfulness from people. Thai kings went to pay homage to the image e.g. King Borommakot in 1753, King Rama V in 1878 and 1908. The present king came to present the royal Kathin robes in 1973 and again in 1975. Buddhists from all over the country always make their visits to worship the image.

Moreover, within Wat Khun Inthapramun compound, there are historical remains of basement, some parts of walls, and Buddha image in Luangpho Khao wihan. Inside the all-purpose pavilion, there is a statue of Khun Inthapramun and the skeleton found in the wihan of the reclining Buddha image in 1998 lying on his face with his hands and feet tied up. People believe that this skeleton is of Khun Inthapramun, but some say it is not.

According to the legend, Khun Inthapramun was a revenue officer who secretly embezzled the government tax to build this reclining Buddha image as a holy object. When the King asked how he obtained the fund from, Khun Inthapramun did not reveal the truth because he was afraid that his merit from building the image would be passed on to the King. He was finally sentenced to death. And the temple was then called Wat Khun Inthapramun.

How to get there : This site can be accessed by 3 routes. Ang Thong Amphoe Pho Thong (No. 3064), then take a right turn at Km 9 for approximately 2 kilometers. Or take the route from Sing Buri province to Amphoe Chaiyo at approximately Km 64-65, take a left turn for 4 kilometers to reach the temple. Or take the new route Amphoe Wiset Chai Chan Pho Thong (along the irrigation canal road) when arriving at Amphoe Pho Thong, take a right turn for 2 kilometers to reach the temple.

Ang Thong Brick
Is a high quality household industry for domestic sales. Most people use this kind of brick to decorate external parts of the buildings and houses. Those who are interested can buy the bricks directly from the factory. There are more than 42 factories in Amphoe Pa Mok along Highway No. 3501 Km 1-9 and Highway No. 309 Km 43-47.

Ban Khu Mueang
Is located in Tambon Ban Phai, 4 kilometers from the north of Sawaeng Ha District and 3 kilometers from Bang Rachan stockade. At Ban Khu Mueang, archaeologists discovered ruins of an ancient city, which presumably existed during Thwarawadi period. Its evidence shows a wide ancient moat and earthen mound, some fragments of pottery, animal bones, beads, and medicine grinding stone. At present, it is a simple canal without any traces of historical sites.

Wat Mathurotsatiyaram
Is located on the Asian Highway (Highway No. 32). From Asian Highway, when passing the intersection to Ang Thong province for approximately 500 meters to Nakhon Sawan province, turn right into PTT gas station for about 30 meters. This temple is formerly called Wat Kuti locating on the bank of the Prakamthong River, an ancient river currently called the Chao Phraya River. This temple was assumed to have been constructed in the late Ayutthaya period.

The only evidence remains are crystal wall, ubosot, chedi, and wihan standing on the appropriate positions with magnificent figures. The 4x8 meters ubosot is built in the Chinese junk figure using brick and plaster, and the 6-meter roof is covered with fire-clay tiles. Luxurious arts of the ubosot are the carved angel pressing his hands together on top of lotus motifs in the center of front and back gables.

Wat Sa Kaeo
Is located in Tambon Bang Sadet approximately 200 meters away from Wat Tha Sutthawat along the irrigation canal road. If travel from Ayutthaya using Ayutthaya Ang Thong route (Highway No. 309) Km 39-40, entrance to the temple will be on the left side. This temple was constructed in 1699 when it was originally named Wat Sakae. This temple has become the orphans care center with many children under supervision.

Therefore, Wat Sa Kaeo Orphanage Li Gay troupe has been established for earning income to cover the expenses in bringing up themselves, which in turn makes this temple become well known. Inside Wat Sa Kaeo, there is Samakkhisamakhan building, which is a center for hand woven fabrics project under Her Majesty the Queens initiation established in 1981, currently under the supervision of Cottage Industry Section, Ministry of Industry.

Also, there are good-quality woven clothes e.g. sarong, bathing cloth, etc. In front of the temple is the location of Amphoe Pa Mok Cultural Center, providing demonstration of weaving, silverware and court doll production, and agriculture produce from housewives e.g. banana. This represents the dissemination of Amphoe Pa Mok workmanship skills to be known and sold to the public. Both attractions are open daily from 8 am. 4 pm. For more information, please contact Wat Sa Kaeo at Tel.0 3566 1169,0 3566 1273 or Wat Sa Kaeo School at Tel. 0 3566 1950-1 or email : Wat_Sakaew@hotmail.com

Over the next few days, visitors to this blog will notice some major changes to how the blog looks; eventually the basic theme will end up looking similar to what is here now, but there may be some interim stages when it looks very decidedly different, whilst I get the layout 'tweaked'. However the basic blog content articles won't be changing in any way.I am in the process of changing the blog '

Find us on Google Earth then come to experience them.

(Please see UPDATE at end)The public prosecutor is calling for a prison sentence of 6 years for the Mayor of Mazarrón, Francisco Blaya in a case to be heard on 4th December in the Provincial Court involving the alleged misappropriation of public money in the form of prepayments made to council member Domingo Valera. Also charged under the same offences are Domingo Valera himself and municipal

Hoodoo Magic Under the Moon!

The 2009 Kimberley Moon Experience concert will be held on Saturday 9 May 2009. Next year's concert will feature the legendary Aussie band, the Hoodoo Gurus.

The Gurus are the epitome of the walking jukebox, with a back catalogue of classic singles and albums including What's My Scene, I Want You Back and Good Times.

For 2009, Best Of The Kimberley has again created a special package that includes the Kimberley Moon Experience concert, return airfares from Perth, 4 nights accommodation, full day "Kimberley Panoramic" scenic flight that takes in the superb Mitchell Falls, Berkeley River Gorge, King George Falls, Kalumburu Aboriginal community and lunch at Drysdale River Station... and more!

If you don't want to waste a minute of time in the East Kimberley, there are a range of optional extra tours also available. For more details of this popular package, contact Best Of The Kimberley on freecall 1800 450 850.

Don't wait - this package sells out quickly!

The 36-year-old failed to recover from the injury he suffered during last month's Australia A tour of India, dealing a blow to the tourists' inexperienced spin attack.

"A decision on a potential replacement player for McGain would be taken in due course," the statement said.McGain had been included in the absence of seasoned spinners. Off-break bowler Jason Krejza is the other specialist spinner in the squad.

South India is one of the most visited destinations of the country. The superb sculptures, dance forms and the temples give evidence of the rich cultural heritage of South India. The tours around South India will help you discover the true spirit of this part of the country. You can visit various places, which are rich in scenic beauty, monuments, temples, beaches, wild life, hill stations and Ayurveda centers. You will find several places to visit during your South India tours.

Some of the major places, which you can visit during the South Indian tours are the following:

Bangalore

Bangalore, also known as the garden city of India, is known for its modern architectural edifices and historic buildings. Vidhana Soudh, which is beautiful post independence architecture, is located in Bangalore. This structure now houses the State legislature and Secretariat. The guided tour in Bangalore will take you to the Tipu Sultan Palace, which gives an insight into the Mughal lifestyle. This palace has now turned into a museum. The ISKCON temple is another impressive structure that shows the blend of Dravidian and modern architecture. Another important place which you can cover in Bangalore during the South India tours is Lal Bagh Garden.

Mysore

This city with rich heritage, grand palaces, beautifully laid pout gardens, impressive buildings and sacred temples has a quaint charm around it. Maharaj Palace, the Amba Villas Palace and Chamundi Hill are the major attraction of Mysore. Brindavan Gardens can not be missed during the visit to Mysore. The beautiful lush green garden with musical fountains is sure to enthrall you.

Nagarhole

Another important tourist destination, Nagarhole, is greatly frequented by the travelers. Kabini River is the major attraction. You can go for boating on this river and have a great time. You can book a jeep or van to go on a wildlife tour to the national park.

Conoor

Conoor is a popular getaway for the tourists. This romantic hill station in the Nilgiris, is marked with tea plantations. You can spend some time bird watching and visiting the botanical gardens.

Cochin

Visit this natural harbor city, which happens to be one of the most important places to visit during South Indian tour. Here, you can enjoy the scenic view of the rougher seas and the beauty of the natural harbor. The major attractions include Portuguese churches, Hindu temples and mosques. Chinese fishing nets are the major draw of this place.

Kerala

This city of scenic beauty, absolute serenity and peacefulness is the land of backwaters and swaying coconut trees. You can spend your small trip on the house boats that lay afloat on the waters of the lake. Kerala Ayurveda is also an important aspect of this city. There are various Ayurveda resorts which are worth visiting the tour.

Madurai

This historic city is also marked by the presence of Meenakshi Temple, Alagar Hills and Tirupara Kundran Rock Temple.

Mahabalipuram

This city of 1000 temples was the capital of the Pallavas. These temples have 124 existing shrines, which are dedicated to various deities. The paintings on the walls tell us about the rich cultural past. You can visit the temples of Ekambaswara, Kailasanatha, Sri Kamakshi and Varadarajaswamy. The rock temples and pagodas are tourists´ delight.

There are several other destinations, which are counted as major places to visit during the South Indian tour. Tanjore, Periyar, Kanchipuram are other major tourist destinations that are worth visiting.
Source:http://www.americanchronicle.com

Yala is the southernmost province of Thailand, with an area of 4,521 square kilometres. It is the only landlocked province in the south. Today Yala is the border province with many interesting facets: history, culture, and beautiful scenery. The province has a unique mixture of cultural heritage of several groups--Thai, Chinese, and Islam. The city centre has systematic town planning and is one of the educational centres of the south as well.

The word Yala was derived from the local word yalo meaning fish net. Yala used to be part of Pattani, a colony of the Sukhothai Kingdom. In B.E. 2310 when Ayutthaya fell to the Burman, southern colonies became independent. During the reign of King Rama I of the Rattanakosin Dynasty, the King sent his brother, Khrom Phra Ratchawangbowon Maha Surasihanat to take Pattani.

In B.E. 2351, the King had Pattani separated into 7 smaller colonies, namely Muang Pattani, Muang Sai Buri, Muang Nong Chik, Muang Yaring, Muang Ra Ngae, Muang Raman, and Muang Yala. Yala had changed its rulers many times before Monthon was abolished in B.E. 2476 and finally became one of the provinces (Changwat) of Thailand.

ATTRACTION

Sakai Village
The Sakai live at Mu 3, Tambon Ban Rae, about 80 kilometres on the road to Betong. The Sakai is an ancient nomad tribe who exists on hunting and gathering, is an expert on herbal plants and using darts for hunting. Their dwellings were originally made of bamboo, with thatch roof. Recently the Department of Social Work has developed the village by segregating the Sakai in one area and introduced rubber planting as their occupation. The Department also asked the Princess Mother for the naming of the group with the family name of Si Than To. At present, there are a few of the Sakai left at this village, the rest of the group has moved to other areas.

Namtok Than To

Namtok Than To is situated in Tambon Tham Talu, on the Yala-Betong road (Highway 410), turn right at the 47-48 kilometre stone for about one kilometre. It is a large waterfall with cascading water running through seven levels with pools for swimming. The surrounding forest is lush with many interesting species including Si Yala with yellow blooms in February.




Namtok La-ong Rung (Rainbow Waterfall)
This is situated on the boundary between Amphoe Than To and Amphoe Betong, about 90 kilometres on the Yala-Betong road from Amphoe Muang. Turn right onto a dirt road at about 40 kilometres before reaching Amphoe Betong, for about 100 metres. The slippery trek leads along the stream from the waterfall calls for precaution. During the rainy season, the waterfall has the effect of the rainbow, hence the name.

Yala Central Mosque
Yala Central Mosque is the main mosque of the province, completed in B.E. 2527, in western architectural style intertwined with the unique mosque frame. The front has about 30 wide steps leading to the upper terrace. The roof is square with a dome in the middle.

Wat Khuhaphimuk
Also known as Wat Na Tham, this temple is one of the three most revered places of the south, along with Phra Borommathat at Nakhon Si Thammarat and Phra Borommathat Chaiya at Surat Thani, signifying the importance of Buddhism in the area since the Srivijaya Period. This temple is located in Tambon Na Tham, about eight kilometres from the city centre, on the road to Amphoe Yaha. A stream runs through the ground of the temple.

A figure of a giant, made in B.E. 2484 and named by the villagers as Chao Khao, protects the entrance of the cave that houses the reclining Buddha. Inside the cave is a large chamber that has been converted into a religious area, with an opening in the roof of the cave that lets in the sunlight. The reclining Buddha has been estimated to have been made in B.E. 1300, around the Srivijaya Period that is 81 feet and one inch long. It is believed that the sculpture was in the Sleeping Narai posture but later modified into the Hinayana reclining Buddha.

Suan Khwan Mueang
This public park is located on Thanon Thetsaban 1, about 300 metres from the City Pillar Shrine. Its vast area of 207 rai has a separate sportsground and a 69 rai pond, landscaped with sandy beach and sea pines to remedy the landlocked problem of the province. Furthermore, singing bird contest (Nok Kao Java) is often held at this Park since it is the largest and the best ground for such contest in the south.

City Pillar Shrine

Yala's city pillar is located on Thanon Phiphitphakdi, in front of the City Hall. His Majesty the King graciously gave the top of the pillar to Yala on 18 May B.E. 2505. This shrine houses the City Pillar made of Chaiyapruk wood. It is 50 centimetres tall, bottom circumference is 43 inches, top circumference is 36 inches with the four-faced Bhrama and a flame on top. The surrounding area is a park that has been nicely tended. A festival to celebrate the City Pillar is held during 25-31 May.


The Swift
At dusk the swifts would fly about the city centre and come to rest at houses, on buildings and on electricity lines, especially on the Bell Tower that is well-lit at night. They have become one of Betong's symbols, although they are there only during the cool season when they flee from the cold weather of Siberia once a year, usually from September through March.

The Largest Mail Box in Thailand
The Largest Mail Box in Thailand used to be located at the Bell Tower intersection of Betong. It was built in B.E. 2467 before World War II as the communication post for the townspeople, through the radio implanted on top of the box, and the mail slot below it. At present a new box had been built in a larger size (nine metres tall), and is located at the City Convention Hall (Sala Prachakhom). The new mail box attracts a large number of tourists who come to take the photograph.

Piyamit Tunnel
Piyamit Tunnel is at Ban Piyamit 1, Tambon Tano Mae Ro. Take the same route as the Hot Spring for four more kilometres. This area is the village of the Thai Development Participants and was once the base of Malaya Communist Division 2. The tunnel was built in three months in B.E. 2519, winding through the mountain for about one kilometre, about 50-60 feet wide with multiple entrances. It was used as the air raid shelter and food storage area. At present there is an exhibition about its history including the way of life in the forest. It is open to the public from 8 a.m. to 4.30 p.m.

Phra Mahathat Chedi Phra Phutthathammaprakat
This is located on a hilltop in Betong city centre, on the ground of Wat Phutthathiwat, Thanon Rattanakit. The chedi is built in the modern Sivijaya style, covered in gold color. It is 39.9 metres high, built to commemorate the 69th birthday anniversary of Her Majesty the Queen. From the chedi one can see all of the temple ground and part of Betong city centre.

Namtok Inthason
Namtok Inthason is about 15 kilometres from Betong city centre, or about two kilometres further from the Hot Spring. It is a small waterfall with lush forest and pools for swimming and relaxing.

Namtok Chaloem Phra Kiat Ro Kao
This is in Tambon Ai Yoe Weng, turn right from Highway 410, between Amphoe Than To and Amphoe Betong at the 32-33 kilometre stone, onto the dirt road for three kilometres. The waterfall is more than 30 metres high, surrounded by lush forest.

Betong Town
The word Betong is Malay, meaning bamboo. This district is at the southernmost point of Thailand, about 140 kilometres from Amphoe Muang Yala, on Highway 410. The road between Amphoe Than To and Amphoe Betong winds on the hillside, affording the scenery of the lake, forest, and rubber plantations. The Betong city centre is surrounded by mountains, resulting in cool climate and high rainfall with frequent fog in the morning. It is therefore dubbed The City in the Fog with Beautiful Flowers. Betong is a large developed district. Malaysian tourists often visit the area because of its proximity. The food is outstanding and has a lot of tourists attractions.

Travelling to Betong: from Amphoe Muang, one can take the van or taxi that operates hourly from across the Yala Railway Station. From Hat Yai there is an air-conditioned van to Yala and Betong, please call 0 7323 0905, 0 7323 3917-8, the service is at 8 a.m., 10 a.m. and 1 p.m.

Betong Municipality Park
Also called Suan Sut Siam, this park occupies an area of about 120 square kilometres on a hill in the middle of Betong city centre. It is the overlook for the city, consisting of ornamental plants and flowering plants garden, avarium, health garden, a sportsground, a swimming pool, and a playground. It is suitable for recreation and exercising. If one travels on Tanon Sukyang for seven kilometres from the Park, one will reach the southernmost point of Thailand that has a road connection into Malaysia.

Betong Hot Spring
Betong Hot Spring is situated at Ban Charo Parai Village, Tambon Tano Mae Ro, about five kilometres before reaching the Betong city centre, turn right from Highway 410 for another eight kilometres into the village. At the hottest spot, eggs are cooked in seven minutes. Hot spring shower is also available. It is believed that hot spring can cure muscle pain and minor skin irritation.

Bala-Hala Forest
This is a lush rainforest with many rare plants and wildlife, especially birds. It is also the habitat of the Sakai. This forest occupies a large area at the boundary of Yala and Narathiwat. It is the headstream of the Bang Lang Dam. Tourists can take boat trips to enjoy the scenery from the 445th Division of the Border Patrol Police, Thanon Sukkhayang, Amphoe Betong.

Tham Krachaeng
This cave is located at Ban Ka Sot, Tambon Bannang Sata, about 50 kilometres from Amphoe Muang Yala on Highway 410, passing the entrance to Bang Lang Dam then turn left onto a dirt road for 1.5 kilometres. The scenery is that of the mountains, the stream, and the cave, with the stream running through. During the dry season, one can walk along the stream through this cave to the other side and into an open area surrounded by mountains and lush forest.

Tourism Authority of Thailand : http://www.tourismthailand.org