2007-10-30

Supaksorn will doing One’s Best for Opening – Closing Ceremony of SEA Games - Wednesday, October 24, 2007

Mr. Supawat Jongsiri or “Supaksorn”, the responsible man of the Opening – Closing of the 24th SEA Games 2007, reveals the progress of preparation that presently we will speed up working against time because had a few days before starting the competition at this period the Com Art Limited, went to schools in Nakhon Ratchasima province to choose 15,000 performers join in the Opening-Closing ceremony and we had the performers from 38 institutes to joining too.
He expected the choosing of performer will completed on this October and next will already starting practice on November 1 2007, then will using real location which is His Majesty the King’s 80th Birthday Anniversary Sport Complex to practice on December 1 2007. For the grand rehearsal on December 4 2007, he said that from the primary schedule, the Organizing Committee of the 24th SEA Games 2007, will have the selling of the ticket on the grand rehearsal day on December 4 2007, which same day as Thai football team compete with Cambodia so may be change the grand rehearse day to December 3 2007, and he will rush to discuss this issue in the main meeting on October 26 2007. “I’m very serious because had a few time and must work for all day all night to prepared everything but I’m happy that we got the great cooperation from Korat citizens and every schools. I want to make impressive and beautiful show because I had organized the opening-closing ceremony for the 18th SEA Games at 12 years ago, so presently I’m come back to do again in the 24th SEA Games so I would like to do the best and this SEA Games will be the last for me because in the next 12 years in the future, I’m already out of date” Mr. Supawat said.Supaksorn said about the song for the opening-closing ceremony of the 24th SEA Games 2007, assigned to Tick Chiro (Mr. Sirisak Nuntasen), the famous singer and songwriter which he is a Korat citizen, to managing the song. For the singer in the opening ceremony we already sound out Tata Young to sing this song which we already send the details of any show for her decision. We expected Tata will response in next week and about torch relay team now we choose Mr. Suriya Prasathinpimai, the boxer who won the bronze medal in Olympic Games 2004 at Greece, and “Nong On” Miss Udomporn Polsak, the women’s weightlifting who won the gold medal in Olympic Games 2004 at Greece, which both is a Korat citizens too. For the opening ceremony of the 24th SEA Games 2007, will have 8 shows, first show was Mahassajan Tairomprabaramee, Mahassajan PathapeeakeE-san, Mahassajan Mahanakornchatchawan, Mahassajan Panithankarnkeela, Mahassajan Faiprareaksangsit, Mahassajan Namjaijit Sathidka, Mahassajan Mittraparbtrabdinfa, Mahassajan Mahanakornalungkarn. For the closing ceremony of the 24th SEA Games 2007, will have 7 shows as followsNiramit Dok-mai-ngam-hang-num-jai, Niramit Sai-yai-hang-kwam-fun, Niramit Mo-ra-dok-loke-rueng-a-nun, Niramit Kwam-pook-pan-wan-jak-krai, Niramit Fai-dao-prow-kwam-wang, Niramit Loke-gee-rung-dung-fun-fai, Niramit Kwam-sook-lum-roj-um-pai-plaeng-pla-kod-kwam-ying-yai-ma-ha-na-korn.
SEA Games’ Football Team prepare to go to Korat Mr. Kittirut Na Ranong, the Manager of Thailand Football Team, reveal that Thailand Men Football Team prepared to compete in the 24th SEA Games at Nakhon Ratchasima, which Football will compete on November 30 2007 with Cambodia. Recently, he went to investigate the His Majesty the King 80th Birthday Anniversary Sport Complex December 5 2007, which using for men football competition, he found that it’s being good state and he think he will led SEA Games National Team to training with real stadium to making familiarity between November 3-7 2007 among National Team will compete world championship 2010 in the 2nd qualify round of Asia Zone. For Men Football competition in the 24th SEA Games 2007, Thailand team which the champions for 7 times, was being in group A with Indonesia, Myanmar and Cambodia. Group B were Vietnam (2nd runner-up) together with Malaysia, Lao and Singapore.
Source from Dailynews Newspaper Date: October 24 2007.

Opening – Closing’s Ticket of SEA Games between 600-1,500 Baht - Wednesday, October 24, 2007

Mr. Bancha Pimsomboon, the director of Sport Authority of Thailand at Nakhon Ratchasima and acting the Secretary of Organizing Committee of the 24th SEA Games 2007, reveals that the Organizing Committee informed to coordinate center of the 24th SEA Games about the price of ticket for the opening ceremony of the 24th SEA Games 2007 on December 6 2007 at His Majesty the King’s 80th Birthday Anniversary Sport Complex from 6.00 pm – 8.00 pm and the closing ceremony on December 15 2007 and all sports already assigned which will start the selling from October 27 2007.
At coordinate center and government agencies in Nakhon Ratchasima, which the price of ticket as follows opening – closing ceremony ticket were 1,500 baht , 1,000 baht and 600 baht and the stadium had contain of 21,659 seats and we must separate around 5,000-6,000 seats for VIP guests. Ticket of any sports are as follows Athletes 50 Baht for all rounds, Swimming 100 baht per seat and 40 baht per cement seat, Badminton 20 baht except in final round 150 baht, Basketball 100 baht except in final round 150 baht, Snooker 100 Baht, Boxing 20 or 50 Baht, Sepak Takraw 100 Baht except in final round 150 Baht, Shooting 50 Baht, Taekwondo 50 Baht, Tennis 50 Baht for all round. Indoor Volleyball 150 Baht per seat and 40 or 100 Baht per cement seat, Beach Volleyball 100 Baht except in final round 150 Baht, weightlifting 50 Baht, Gymnastic 100 Baht per seat and 40 Baht per cement seat, Futsal 20,50 and 100 Baht, Muaythai 20,50 and 100 Baht, Dance Sport 150 Baht, Football 50,100,200,300,400 and 600 Baht. For 28 sports will open free watching which as follows Archery, Baseball, Bowling, Canoeing, Rowing, Cycling, Equestrian, Polo, Fencing, Golf, Handball, Hockey, Judo, Karatedo, Rugby Football, Squash, Sailing-Windsurfing, Skeet and Trap Shooting, Softball, Table Tennis, Triathlon, Wrestling, Wushu, Bodybuilding, Lawn Bowls, Petanque, Pencak Silat and Traditional Boat Race. For the students who wearing the uniform to watch the competition, will pay only 20 baht so which academy that teacher lead the student group to watch the competition, they can contact at coordination center of the 24th SEA Games, will get free charge, Mr. Bancha said. Dr. Sakchai Tapsuwan, the Chairman of Sports Technical Department in the Organizing Committee of the 24th SEA Games 2007, reveal that they investigated the venues after the flood became lower which the stadiums not damage until to improvement so he assured all training and competition venues will completed for system testing on November 15 2007. "I already informed to every sport association and some associations was response to testing the system which I assured all venues will complete within November 15 2007” the Chairman of Sports Technical Department said.
Source from Matichon Newspaper Date: October 24 2007

Invite to Join the SEA Games Day on this Sunday at Indoor Stadium Hua Mak

Invite the people to join the SEA Games Day, on Sunday 28th October 2007 at Indoor Stadium, Hua Mak, which provide SEA Games’ souvenirs more than 1,500 pieces for the persons who jointly play the game including watching the Best Cheering Team Championship Cup from Her Royal Highness Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana.
Public Relations Committee of the 24th SEA Games 2007, will organize the SEA Games Day on October 28 2007, 10.00 am – 7.00 pm at Indoor Stadium Hua Mak, in order to invite all Thai peoples jointly for being the host of the 24th SEA Games 2007, in which provide many activities such as the duplication of sport park which had many playthings for example highest hike game, Powerful Athletes, Sport Intelligent, SEA Games Kang Thong, Pro Golf SEA Games, SEA Games Painting, include taking photograph with Nong Can and Nong Ka Rom that blowing of 3 meters, other than will distribute the Sea Games souvenirs such as Nong Can mascot, rocking doll, SEA Games T-shirt, Telephone Floppy and Caps more than 1,500 pieces with athletes’ signature to persons who jointly play the answer questions of SEA Games. At 2.00 pm. It will have announcement of the readiness of the 24th SEA Games from 19 committees and watch the Best Cheering Team Contest of SEA Games 2007, compete for a cup of Princess Siriwanawaree Nareeratana, and compete for a scholarship more than 200,000 baht, 4.30 pm. at Indoor Stadium. Besides, the official sponsors of the 24th SEA Games, will set up a booth to selling the SEA Games’ souvenirs with a special price such as Thai Pure Drinks Limited, Chaiyaphan 999 Limited, Kanoknat Limited and Dash International Limited, so in the SEA Games Day, the visitors can attend for free.
Source from Government Public Relations Department Date: October 24 2007

2007-10-28

History of Thailand

The region known today as Thailand has been inhabited by human beings since the paleolithic period (about 500,000 - 10,000 years ago). Due to its geographical location, Thai culture has always been greatly influenced by India and China as well as the indigenous cultures of Southeast Asia. Prior to the 12th century various Mon, Khmer and Malay kingdoms thrived in differing regions, as seen through the numerous archaeological sites and artifacts throughout the country. However, the first Thai or Siamese state is traditionally considered to be the Buddhist kingdom of Sukhothai, which was founded in 1238, following the decline and fall of the Khmer empire in the 13th - 15th century AD.
A century later Sukhothai's power was overshadowed by the larger Siamese kingdom of Ayutthaya, established in the mid-14th century. After the sack of Angkor by the Siamese armies in 1431, much of the Khmer court and its Hindu customs were brought to Ayutthaya Kingdom, and Khmer customs and rituals were adopted into the courtly culture of Siam.
After Ayutthaya fell in 1767 to the Burmese, Thonburi was the capital of Thailand for a brief period under King Taksin the Great. The current (Rattanakosin) era of Thai history began in 1782 following the establishment of Bangkok as capital of the Chakri dynasty under King Rama I the Great.
European powers began traveling to Thailand in the 16th century. Despite European pressure, Thailand is the only Southeast Asian nation never to have been colonised by a European country. Two main reasons for this were that Thailand had a long succession of very able rulers in the 1800s and that it was able to exploit the rivalry and tension between the French and the British. As a result, the country remained as a buffer state between parts of Southeast Asia that were colonised by the two colonial powers. Despite this, Western influence led to many reforms in the 19th century and major concessions, most notably being the loss of large territory on the east side of the Mekong to the French and the loss of three predominantly ethnic-Malay southern provinces, which later became Malaysia's three northern states (Anglo-Siamese Treaty of 1909).
In 1932, a bloodless revolution resulted in a new constitutional monarchy. During World War II, Thailand was allied with Japan, while at the same time having an active anti-Japanese resistance movement known as the Seri Thai. After the war, Thailand emerged as an ally of the United States. As with much of the developing nations during the Cold war, Thailand then went through decades of political transgression characterised by coups d'états as one military regime replaced another, but eventually progressed towards a stable democracy in the 1980s.
In 1997, Thailand was hit with the Asian financial crisis and the Thai baht for a short time peaked at 56 baht to the U.S. dollar compared to about 25 baht to the dollar before 1997. Since then the baht has regained most of its strength and as of May 23, 2007, is valued at 33 baht to the US dollar.
The official calendar in Thailand is based on Eastern version of the Buddhist Era, which is 543 years ahead of the Gregorian (western) calendar. For example, the year AD 2007 is called 2550 BE in Thailand.

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

TAT TO LAUNCH “SEVEN AMAZING WONDERS” OF THAILAND CAMPAIGN

The Tourism Authority of Thailand has segmented and regrouped its core national tourism products into a seven-point package that will be marketed worldwide under the banner of “Seven Amazing Wonders” of Thailand.
Approved after the annual marketing meeting of TAT in the beach resort of Cha-am last week, the new campaign is designed to help attain a target of 14.8 million international visitor arrivals in 2007 and 15.7 million in 2008. The domestic tourism target is 82 million trips in 2007 and 83 million trips in 2008.
TAT Governor Mrs Phornsiri Manoharn said, “The new planning focus takes into account the many influencing factors at the global, regional, and local levels, ranging from changes in consumer behaviour, the impact of oil prices to branding and low-cost airlines.”
An exhaustive SWOT analysis of the Thai tourism industry indicated that while there were a number of issues to be addressed, “the good news is that Thailand has a generally very positive image in the world, which gives it a significant competitive advantage.
Mrs Phornsiri said, “In many travel magazines and lifestyle surveys, we are consistently ranked in the Top Ten for the quality of our beautiful beaches, entertainment and dining, value of products, recreational facilities, and shopping. Every year, we reap many awards in each of these categories.”
She noted that the new campaign will be underpinned by the strong branding slogan “Amazing Thailand” which proved hugely successful in 1998/99 and underscores the country’s image as a peaceful, hospitable country and a year-round tourism destination with high quality of value-for-money products and services.”
The “Seven Amazing Wonders” theme products are as follows:
Thainess“Experience the Art of Thai Living” — which refers to traditional Thai hospitality, lifestyle and friendliness of the people
Treasure products“Land of Heritage and History” — covering the World Heritage sites and historical places, temples, and Thai museums
Beaches“Fun, Sun, Surf and Serenity of Thai Beaches” — the long-standing popularity of Thai beach resorts for international and domestic tourism
Nature“Encounter the Sheer Beauty of Thai Nature” — focus on conservation and environment, and market Thai products within the framework of the worldwide attention being paid to global warming
Health and Wellness“Land of Healthy Smile” — a rapidly growing market, highlighting Thailand’s preventive and curative therapies
Trendy“Excite Yourself with a Myriad of Thai Trends” — targetted at the new generation of young travellers, and covering the new boutique hotels, shopping centres, restaurants, nightlife, and entertainment
Festivities“Enchant Yourself with International Festivities in Thailand”— the ‘sanuk’ (fun) factor, featuring popular Thai events and festivals such as the Phuket Regatta, Elephant Polo, etc.
The 18 main markets which are targeted for intensive promotions are mainly in the Asia-Pacific, East Asia and Europe regions. Among the 20 emerging markets with strong growth potential are Vietnam, Philippines, Indonesia, Russia and CIS countries, East Europe, UAE, and Saudi Arabia.
This year, TAT is to open offices in Dubai, Moscow and Vietnam, all of which are generating promising growth. It is also working actively in China which is projected to become Thailand’s top source of visitor arrivals by the end of this decade, overtaking both Malaysia and Japan.
Mrs Phornsiri said the core focus will be on attracting “quality tourists with high yield.” A lot of time and effort is to be directed at enhancing TAT’s e-marketing abilities through websites, blogs, discussion forums, travel clubs, mobile phone messages, etc, especially to reach the high-end target group in places like Japan, Australia and the US.
She said, “The fact that 60% of total arrivals are repeat visitors opens up excellent opportunities to attract more visitors by getting our loyal guests to recommend Thailand to more friends and colleagues.”
One key component of the campaign will be the nine Royal Discovery Initiative projects, all conceptualised and created by His Majesty the King and members of the Royal Family as part of Thailand’s “sufficiency economy” practise.
Mrs Phornsiri said, “This year, we are commemorating His Majesty the King’s 80th Birthday Anniversary. His Majesty is now the world’s longest reigning monarch and within two years, will become the longest reigning monarch in world history. This will be another cause for glorious celebration.”
The nine Royal Discovery Initiative projects epitomise the pride of Thailand. They cover areas such as agriculture, occupational training, education, traditions and culture. More details are available on the web site www.thairoyalprojects.com

2007-10-27

Map Opening –Closing ceremony venue The 24th SEA Games


Opening –Closing ceremony Seagames 24th (2007) at Nakhonratchsima Province using Main Stadium, 333rd Anniversary Nakhonratchasima

2007-10-26

The 24th SEA Games Hockey Competition will be held from December 7 – 14, 2007



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The competition will be held at the Synthetic Hockey Pitch, Queen Sirikit Sports Center, Pathumthani Province. Training Site Training venues will be provided at the same as competition site. The Training schedule for each team will be given upon the arrival.


The 24th SEA Games Handball Competition will be held from December 8 - 15, 2007.



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The competition will be held at Nimibutr Stadium, National Stadium, Bangkok. Training Site Training venues will be provided at Chantanayingyong Gymnasium, National Stadium, Bangkok. The Training schedule for each team will be given upon the arrival.

2007-10-24

The 24th SEA Games Gymnastics Competition will be held from December 5 – 15, 2007




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The competition will be held at Indoor Stadium 1, His Majesty the King’s 80th Birthday Anniversary Stadium (5th December 2007), Nakhon Ratchasima province. Training Site Training venues will be provided at the following gymnastics:
- Indoor Stadium 1, His Majesty the King’s 80th Birthday Anniversary Stadium (5th December 2007), Nakhon Ratchasima province.
- Simeon Gymnasium, Assumption College Nakhonratchasima, Nakhon Ratchasima province.
The Training schedule for each team will be given upon the arrival.

The 24th SEA Games Golf Competition will be held from December 10 – 13, 2007



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The competition will be held at the Bonanza Golf & Country Club, Bonanza Ranch Khaoyai, Nakhon Ratchasima Province.Training Site Training venues will be provided at the same as competition site.
The Training schedule for each team will be given upon the arrival.

The 24th SEA Games Football Competition will be held from November 29th to December 14th 2007





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Football :The Football competition will be held at the following stadiums: - Main Stadium, His Majesty the King’s 80th Birthday Anniversary Stadium (5th December 2007), Nakhon Ratchasima Province. - Surapala Keetha Sathan, Suranaree University of Technology, Nakhon Ratchasima Province. - Municipality of Nakhon Ratchasima Stadium, Nakhon Ratchasima Province. - Municipality of Tumbon Mueangpug Stadium, Nakhon Ratchasima Province.

The 24th SEA Games Fencing Competition will be held from December 8 – 11, 2007.



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The competition will be held at National Synchrotron Research Center, Nakhon Ratchasima Province.Training Site Training venues will be provided at the same as competition site.
The Training schedule for each team will be given upon the arrival

The 24th SEA Games Equestrian Competition will be held from December 7 - 15, 2007.




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The competition will be held at Horseshoe Point and Thai Polo Club, Pattaya City, Chonburi Province.Training Site . The training venue will be held at Horseshoe Point and Thai Polo Club, Pattaya City, Chonburi Province.
The Training schedule for each team will be given upon the arrival.

The 24th SEA Games Cycling Competition will be held from December 5 – 13, 2007



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The competition will be held at Nakhon Ratchasima Province.
Track Events : The competition will be held at Velodrome, His Majesty the King’s 80th Birthday Anniversary Stadium (5th December 2007), Nakhon Ratchasima Province.

The 24th SEA Games Canoeing Competition will be held from December 11 – 14, 2007.




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The competition will be held at Mab Prachan Reservoir, Pattaya City, Chonburi Province. Training Site Training venues will be provided at the same as competition site. The Training schedule for each team will be given upon the arrival.

The 24th SEA Games Boxing Competition will be held from December 7 - 14, 2007.




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The competition will be held at Gymnasium, Municipality of Tumbon Muangpug, Nakhon Ratchasima Province. Training Site Training venues will be provided at Cafeteria, Pakthongchai Pracharniramit School, Nakhon Ratchasima Province. The Training schedule for each team will be given upon the arrival.

The 24th SEA Games Bowling Competition will be held from December 8 – 14, 2007.



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The competition will be held at SF STRIKE BOWL Ramkhamhaeng, Bangkok. Training Site Training venues will be provided at SF STRIKE BOWL Ramkhamhaeng, Bangkok. The Training schedule for each team will be given upon the arrival.

The 24th SEA Games Billiards & Snooker Competition will be held from December 7 - 14, 2007




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The competition will be held at Sima Thani Grand Ballroom, Sima Thani Hotel, Nakhon Ratchasima Province. Training venues will be provided at Sima Thani Grand Ballroom, Sima Thani Hotel, Nakhon Ratchasima Province.
The Training schedule for each team will be given upon the arrival.




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The competition will be held at Baseball Stadium, Queen Sirikit Sports Center, Pathumthani Province. Training Site Training venues will be provided at Pathumthani Province: - Baseball Stadium, Queen Sirikit Sports Center, Pathumthani Province. - Baseball Field (Training Field), Queen Sirikit Sports Center, Pathumthani Province. The Training schedule for each team will be given upon the arrival.

The 24th SEA Games Baseball Competition will be held from December 7 – 14, 2007.





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The competition will be held at Baseball Stadium, Queen Sirikit Sports Center, Pathumthani Province.
Training Site
Training venues will be provided at Pathumthani Province:
- Baseball Stadium, Queen Sirikit Sports Center, Pathumthani Province.
- Baseball Field (Training Field), Queen Sirikit Sports Center, Pathumthani Province.
The Training schedule for each team will be given upon the arrival.


The 24th SEA Games Basketball Competition will be held from December 7 – 15, 2007.





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The competition will be held at Keelapirom Stadium, Suranaree University of Technology, Nakhon Ratchasima Province.Training Site Training venues will be provided at Pathumthani Province:
- Ratchasima Witthayalai Sport Center, Ratchasima Witthayalai School,Nakhon Ratchasima Province.
- Surathampitak Camp Gymnasium, Nakhon Ratchasima Province.
The Training schedule for each team will be given upon the arrival.


The 24th SEA Games Badminton Competition will be held from December 7 – 14, 2007.



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The competition will be held at Gymnasium, Vongchavalitkul University, Nakhon Ratchasima Province. Training venues will be provided at Suranareepirom Stadium, Suranaree University of Technology, Nakhon Ratchasima Province.The Training schedule for each team will be given upon the arrival.

2007-10-23

The 24th SEA Games Archery Competition will be held from December 7 – 12, 2007.



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The competition will be held at Football Field 2, Suranaree University of Technology, Nakhon Ratchasima Province.
Training venues will be provided at the same as competition site.
The Training schedule for each team will be given upon the arrival.


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The 24th SEA Games Aquatics Competition will be held from December 7 – 15, 2007


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The 24th SEA Games Athletics Competition



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Competition Information 1. Date The 24th SEA Games Athletics Competition will be held from December 7 - 11, 2007. 2. Venues a. Competition Site The competition will be held at Nakhon Ratchasima Province.

Complete Schedule in the Seagame 2007

The XVIII SEA Games in Chiang Mai saw the full turn-out of 10 member nation for the first time, but the progress in improving the quality of participation in the Asian and Olympic Games from the SEA family is slow. Since the birth of SEAP Games, Thailand , the Philippines and Malaysia have won a Silver and Bronze medal each and Indonesia a Gold, Silver and Bronze in the Olympic Games. Whether this successes would had been achieved if there were no SEAP / SEA Games is difficult to say but there are more people knocking on the door for Asian and Olympic selection after participating in the SEA Games. Another welcome development in the prominence given to the region’s endogenous sports and its potential in being accepted for competition in the Asian Games. Sepak Takraw was accepted for SEAP Games competition in 1965 and it has been in every Games programme since then except in 1969 when the Games were held in Rangoon. The name Sepak Takraw itself was coined at a Federation Meeting in Kuala Lumpur in 1965, combining the Malaysian and Thai names for the traditional sport. It has since enjoyed international status as a competitive sports and been a demonstration sport in the 1982 Asian Games in New Delhi. Silat Olahraga, a martial art of the region, and traditional boat races were SEA Games event for the first time in Jakarta in 1987. They are in the program since then. Silat Olahraga has made giant strides outside the SEA Games framework and there are World Championships with good participation from European countries as well. In 1989 Kuala Lumpur SEA Games, body building has been paired off as one event with weight lifting and the traditional boat race taking refuge under yachting. Wushu another martial art and squash, were first introduced in the Manila XVI SEA Games 1991. In 1989 Kuala Lumpur SEA Games, body building has been paired off as one event with weight lifting and the traditional boat race taking refuge under yachting. Athletics and swimming are compulsory sports. For the first thirteen SEAP/SEA Games (1959 - 1985), the average number of events in the Games is 16. Since then, the average rose to 28 event which Jakarta offered the highest number in 1997. The lowest number of events is 12 with 67 gold medals made up for the first Games in 1959 while the highest is 34 with 438 gold in the 1997 programme in Jakarta. Somewhere up above, Laung Sukhumanaipradit must be smiling contentedly. His vision has grown into not only the region’s major sporting attraction but, despite problems along the way, has done much to foster a closer, mutual understanding between the nations of Southeast Asia.

You can see Complete Schedule in the Seagame 2007 HEAR
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Seagame 2007 in Thailand.

24th SEA Games 2007 Southeast Asian Games
The Southeast Asian Games (also known as the SEA Games), is a biannual multi-sport event involving participants from the current 11 countries of Southeast Asia. The games is under regulation of the Southeast Asian Games Federation with supervision by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and the Olympic Council of Asia.
24th SEA Games 2007

The 24th SEA Games will be held from 6th to 15th December 2007. The main venue of the 24th SEA Games will be at Korat, in the north-eastern part of Thailand. However, a number of sports and/or events, which has no facilities in Korat, will be held in Bangkok and Chonburi (Pattaya). The sports to be held in Chonburi (Pattaya) are Sailing and Wind-Surfing, Rowing, Canoeing, Traditional Boat Race, Triathlon and Duathlon and Equestrian. Sports to be held in Bangkok are Baseball, Handball, Hockey, Lawn Bowls, Polo, Skeet & Trap events of Shooting.


Source: SEA Games Executive Committee

Presently, SEA Games’ Sponsor Over 409 Million Baht

Presently, SEA Games’ Sponsor Over 409 Million Baht
The movement of organizing of the 24th SEA Games, which hosted by Thailand between December 6-15 2007 at Nakhon Ratchasima, recently Dr. Nat Intarapan, the deputy Minister of Tourism and Sports Ministry, and acting the Chairman of Follow Up & Expedite Committee, presided over the workshop meeting with all companies that accepted to be sponsor of SEA Games, to realize on how can they proceed, in which Dr. Santipab Taechavanit, the Chairman of Marketing Committee, joining the meeting, at Radisson Hotel Bangkok, October 15 2007.
For the official partner which supported product and service over 40 million baht, had 5 companies such as Nestle (Thailand) Public Company Limited, Siam Sport Syndicate Public Company Limited, Thai Pure Drinks Company Limited, TOT Public Company Limited, PTT Public Company Limited and the official sponsor which supported product and service over 20 million baht, had 4 companies such as Football Thai Sporting Goods Company Limited, Hewlett – Packard (Thailand) Company Limited, Volvo Car (Thailand) Company Limited, and CAT Telecom Public Company Limited. The official supplier had 8 companies, such as Wiraka Pte Company Limited, Mikasa Industry (Thailand) Company Limited, DLP (Thailand) Company Limited, Far East Speciality Company Limited, Active Media (Thailand) Company Limited, Pilot Trans Global Company Limited, MSL Technology Company Limited, Canon Marketing (Thailand) Company Limited and the official sponsor licenses had 8 companies such as Dash International (Thailand) Company Limited, T.R.T. Intertrade Company Limited, Chaiyapan 999 Company Limited, Achieve Pewter Company Limited, Kanoknut Company Limited, Prosper Service Supply Limited Partnership, Song Smai Rajthevee Company Limited, Thai Chamber of Commerce of Nakhon Ratchasima. Dr. Santiparb revealed that formerly we aimed a financial support for 200 million baht but now we received a financial support from all companies both on product, services and cash worth more than 409 million baht which this balance was including 6 products such as Canon, TOT, Volvo, CAT Telecom, HP, and MSL that already discuss the details and only waiting for signing day however not include the insurance company that still having discussion. “We will full protecting the right of all companies which support this SEA Games, which if have someone violated copyright and using SEA Games’ symbol without permission of Department of Intellectual Property which we was registered the copyright, they will get the heavy punishment” Dr. Santipab said.
Source from Naewna Newspaper Date: October 16 2007

2007-10-22

Nakhon Ratchasima at a glance

Nakhon Ratchasima at a glance Nakhon Ratchasima, generally known as "Khorat", is Thailand's largest province situated on sprawling northeast plateau. Located approximately 260 kilometers northeast of Bangkok, the city itself serves as the gateway to the lower northeastern region. Covering an area of 25,494 square kilometers that is mainly plateaus and mountainous terrain, Khorat has fascinating traditions, charming hospitality, splendid natural scenery and awesome historical sites. Some of the main attractions in Khorat are Khmer ruins. Scattered around the province, these products of ancient wisdom shines through time. One of the Thailand's finest Khmer ruins can be seen here next to Mon and Lao sites. In addition, Khorat has an abundance of natural attractions in its forests, hills, wildlife and waterfalls that are easily accessible in locations such as Khao Yai National Park. Apart from the famous statue of Khun Ying Mo, Khorat is most well known for silk weaving (in Pak Thong Chai) and a variety of top-notch quality handicrafts such as clay pottery products of Dan Kwian. Geographically, Nakhon Ratchasima borders on Chiyaphum and Khon Kaen Provinces in the north, Buriram Province in the east, Chiyaphum and Saraburi Provinces in the west and Nakhon Nayok and Prachin Buri Provinces in the south. Khorat is also the largest northeastern province. Inhabitants of the province are mainly engaged in agricultural activities that include farming of rice and other crops such as sugar cane, tapioca, corn, jute, peanuts, sesame and fruits. There are more than 100 savings and agricultural cooperatives in the province, 35 irrigation projects and 7,122 industrial factories. Most of the factories are rice mills, tapioca product manufacturers, and industrial factories. Khorat's most popular annual event is the Thao Suranari Festival, a celebration of Thao Suranari's victory over the Lao. It's held from late March to early April and features parades.Looking back Khorat used to be the site of several ancient prehistoric communities. Little is known about the early history of Khorat, except that it used to be part of a kingdom called Sri Janas (Si Janat) an empire that extended its power to the entire Khorat Plateau. Initially the predominant cultural influence in the city was that of the Dvaravati culture, however, it was later replaced by the Khmer culture. The prehistoric site of Ban Prasat is an evidence of this occurrence while traces of both the Dvaravati and Khmer cultures are scattered throughout the province, particularly at Amphur Sung Noen and Amphur Phimai. Once an administrative and cultural center, Khorat's role today remains unchanged as it is currently the main transportation, industrial and economic hub of the Northeast.

Contact Number
Tourist Police
. 1155, 0 4434 1777-9
Nakhon Ratchasima Airport
. 0 4425 9524
Airport (Thai Airways)
. 0 4425 5425
Public Relations Province
. 0 4425 1818
Maharach Korat Hospital
. 0 4425 4990-1
Transport station
. 0 4424 2889
Transport station
. 0 4425 6006-9
Provincial police Station
. 0 4424 2010
Railway station
. 0 4424 2044
Office of Nakhon Ratchasima Province
. 0 4424 3798

From:http://www.2007seagames.com

Korat’s Polices Speed up on Security for the 24th SEA Games 2007

Korat’s polices had been checking all areas and eliminate the crime for the security of SEA Games under Prime Minister’s policy, which the Commander of Royal Thai Police, urged to reduce the crime which Thailand is the host to organizing the 24th SEA Games 2007, held from December 6-15 2007, at Nakhon Ratchasima province.
Pol.Maj.Gen. Chatkanok Keawsangsong, the Commander of Provincial Police Region, Nakhon Ratchasima, which responsible in area of the 24th SEA Games competition, reveals that, the Provincial Police Region of Nakorn Ratchasima, give precedence to the policy of Prime Minister about the security very much, and he had a policy to eliminate the crime for the 24th SEA Games 2007, by set up the checkpoint in all areas starting from November. “We will set up the checkpoint and mobilize all polices to eliminate the crime such as drugs, criminal and gang which an aim to clear Nakorn Ratchasima province more safety before starting the 24th SEA Games 2007” The commander of Provincial Police Region, Nakhon Ratchasima, reveals that Pol.Gen. Sereepisut Temeeyavet, the Commander of Royal Thai Police, and act for the Chairman of Security & Traffic Committee of the 24th SEA Games 2007, urged the police officers in Nakhon Ratchasima to suppress all of the crime before starting the 24th SEA Games 2007, which the Provincial Police Region, Nakhon Ratchasima, received the policy and plan to perform follow the command and He believed that the 24th SEA Games 2007 will be absolutely safeness.
Source from Siamrath Newspaper Date: October 15 2007.

Testing Cycling’s Venues

Testing Cycling’s Venues
Maj.Gen. Decha Hemkrasri, the Secretary of Thai Cycling Association Under the Royal Patronage of His Majesty the King Founded 1959, reveals the association will organizing the cycling competition which invited Downhill and Cross Country cyclists joining the competition to testing for the 24th SEA Games, on November 3 2007 at Kao Yai Thiang.
This competition had an aim to testing all systems in SEA Games such as transportation system, judge, reckon time and process data therefore this venue will be the same one for SEA Games and actual distance especially Downhill category will cycle through the Bridge which cross Mittapab Road to get finish line at Suranaree Park. Besides, they will test the Cross Country venue which will be actual competition and all athletes who attend to the competition will get the prize and trophy similar to Thailand Championship. The athletes who interest to attend the competition please contact Thai Cycling Association under the Royal Patronage of His Majesty the King Founded 1959 for more information number 0-2718-4580-1 or www.thaicycling.or.th
Source from Khaosod Newspaper Date: October 15 2007.

Nakhon Ratchasima Radio Amateur Ready to be the Host of SEA Games

On October 13 2007, the representatives of Public Relations Committee joined the meeting with the committees of Nakhon Ratchasima Radio Amateur Association (HS3AN) to discuss on the cooperation to jointly being the good host by publicize the 24th SEA Games and ASEAN Para Games via amateur radio network and coordinate among these competitions in addition to discuss on the making of reserved communication network in case of the main communication network have been fault.
After finished the meeting, the representatives of Public Relations Committee had given the souvenir to Miss Boonyapha Sritan, the Chairman of Nakhon Ratchasima Radio Amateur Association (HS3QX), who represents Nakhon Ratchasima Radio Amateur Association.
Source from National News Bureau Date: October 15 2007

7 Countries Attend SEA Games’ Basketball Competition - Monday, October 15, 2007

7 Countries Attend SEA Games’ Basketball Competition
Mr. Suthep Benjaphokee, the Chairman of Basketball Association of Thailand, reveal that the Sports Technical Committee of the 24th SEA Games, inform that had 7 countries send the Entry Form by Name divide into men category of 7 teams are Thailand, Malaysia, Philippines, Indonesia, Vietnam, Singapore and Cambodia, women category of 6 teams are Thailand, Malaysia, Philippines, Indonesia, Vietnam and Singapore.
In this tournament using round robin system which the team who got the highest score and arrange to third ranking will respectively get gold, silver and bronze medal. The Basketball Association had an aim to win gold medal for women team which finally they won in the 18th SEA Games 1995 at Chiangmai. The basketball’s women team will attend the Woman Basketball ASEAN Championship at Phuket, between October 14-20 2007 afterwards will go to training at Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China between November 9-29 2007. For men team, the association aims to get silver medal which recently went to training at Guangzhou, between September 28 to October 10 2007.
Source from Matichon Newspaper Date: October 15 2007.

HISTORY OF THE SEA GAMES

HISTORY OF THE SEA GAMES
The origins of athletic competition lie in the mists of time when tribal members competed in the everyday skills of survival. The fastest and strongest were lauded, for it was they who ensured the tribe’s continued existence, in times of peace and in times of war. Certainly, Laung Sukhumanaipradit is hardly a household name, yet as a vice president of the Olympic Committee, he first floated the idea of a smaller sports event comprising the nations of the Southeast Asian peninsula, during the Third Asian Games held in Tokyo in 1958. At a meeting held on 22 May the same year, representatives from Burma (Myanmar), Laos and Malaysia met with their Thai hosts to explore the possibilities. There was a certain logic to the idea. The countries of the region had many similarities. Modest of population and on a comparable economic footing, they shared common sports participation as well as roughly equal standards of achievement. Such an event would serve as a stepping stone for Southeast Asian athletes to raise their standards so as to be more competitive when they met more advantaged athletes in the larger arenas of the Asian and Olympic Games. The meeting resulted in the formation of the Southeast Asian Peninsula (SEAP) Games Federation in June 1959, the founder members being Burma, Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia, Thailand and Vietnam - hence the six interlocked rings which formed the Games logo. The first president of the Federation was General Prabhas Charusatiara of Thailand and Luang Mayapradit was elected vice president with Dr Kalya Israsena taking the role of honorary secretary. Other pioneer members of the committee included Ms U Paing of Burma, His Highness Sisowath Essaro of Cambodia, Mr Nakkhla Souvannong of Laos, Mr Thong Poh Nyen of Malaysia and Mr Bguyen Phuoc Vong of Vietnam. In deference to their efforts in bringing the whole concept to fruition, Thailand was given the honour of hosting the inaugural SEAP Games in 1959. Formally declared open by His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej of Thailand in Bangkok’s National Stadium, some 800 athletes and officials took part in 12 sporting disciplines: Athletics, Badminton, Basketball, Boxing, Cycling, Football, Tennis, Shooting, Swimming, Table Tennis, Volleyball and Weightlifting. The atmosphere of friendly competition added to the whole experience and the SEAP Games were definitely ‘off and running’. The Federation had already decided that in future "the honour of hosting the SEAP Games shall be entrusted to the member organisation of each country in rotation in alphabetical order". Thus the hosts for the II SEAP Games were the Burmese, and President Win Maung of the Union of Burma inaugurated the 1961 meet at Rangoon. Cambodia did not take part in the inaugural Games but joined the fray in the second Games at Rangoon in 1961 which had a full turnout of the seven countries. Again, more than 800 athletes and officials took part and shared in the friendly ambience of athletic rivalry and social interaction. The year 1963 saw a hiccup in planning though, as due to unsettling in-country conditions - and a disagreement with the International Amateur Athletic Federation - the designated hosts Cambodia were not able to host the event. The III SEAP Games then passed to Laos as hosts, but they begged off the 1965 event citing financial difficulties. Fortunately though, Malaysia steeped into the breach which, by right, should have been held in 1963 and the eight days sporting extravaganza was held in Kuala Lumpur with around 1,300 athletes and officials taking part. By now the SEAP Games Federation had gained another member with Singapore’s independence from the Malaysian Federation in August that year. The incapability of Cambodia, Laos and South Vietnam to take on the job of hosting the Games in the foreseeable future raised some concern among the other member countries. Even the participation of these countries was limited to token squads. In 1967, Cambodia again declined to host the Games, but Thailand took over and some 1,200 participants gathered in Bangkok. The next scheduled hosts were Vietnam, but they too had to reluctantly inform the Federation that troubles in the country prevented them from fulfilling their obligations, and the V SEAP Games returned to Rangoon. Singapore, the youngest member of the family, made the first move to alleviate the situation. In 1969 at Rangoon the Fifth Games were held, they proposed changing the SEAP Games name to SEA (South East Asia ) Games. No names were mentioned but it was clear that Singapore thought of reinforcements from Indonesia and Philippines to help lift the sagging fortunes of the series. These two countries, which were more advanced in the affairs of international sport that the original members of the SEAP Games Federation, would not only be able to help out in the hosts job which was going abetting but also enter contestants of a higher standard in some events. Thailand held on to their belief that the SEAP Games should be a small family affair and that going out of the peninsular would defeat the original purpose of the Games. An expanded Games would also not be in the real spirit of close neighbours. Two years later, when Kuala Lumpur’s turn to officially host the VI SEAP Games for the second time in six years, Malaysia joined hands with Singapore to resubmit the name change proposal. Again, there was no success. The Games continued in their original framework but the serious competition was provided only by Thailand, Burma, Malaysia and Singapore. Cambodia, and later Khmer, Laos and South Vietnam sent competitors who were mostly full time soldiers with little or no training in the events they were entered. The four "active" countries who had carry the burden of hosting the Games were further depleted when Burma showed no further interest in helping out after hosting the 1969 Games, due to the deteriorating economy in their country. Singapore hosted the VII SEAP Games for the first time with a full turnout of seven countries being held at the new and modern National Stadium in 1973. However, when Bangkok took its turn as host for the VII SEAP Games two years later, only four members organisations turned up - political problems in Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam prevented their participation and cast serious doubts on their ability to take part in upcoming events anytime soon. An idea that had flamed so boldly into life less that two decades before now seemed liable to be extinguished, crippled by regional political problems and the increasing cost burden of hosting the event so regularly - Thailand had already hosted the Games three times, and Burma and Malaysia twice apiece. A lifeline was needed. Malaysia tendered a suggestion - extend the Federation to include other countries in the Southeast Asian region. To back up its proposal, Malaysia offered to again host the Games on the proviso that Brunei, Indonesia and Philippines be invited to take part. A solution had been found and on 5 February 1977, these three new members were officially welcomed into the Federation. Present on this occasion were Ferry Sonneville of Indonesia and Colonel Nereo Andolong of the Philippines. Still, it was not plain sailing. Behind the scenes persuasion on the eve of the meeting by Olympic Council of Malaysia President, Tan Sri Hamzah Abu Samah got Thailand to withdraw some reservations about a change in name for the Games. Thailand, with good reason, viewed the Games with some sentiment. They were instrumental in starting the series and did not wish to let their early work go to waste. With fresh life breathed into the biennial event, the only cosmetic change required was to drop the word "Peninsula" from the federation’s title - the emblem and the sequential numbering of the Games would remain to perpetuate the objectives, aspirations and contributions of the original founders. The IX SEA Games (the first to bear that title ) was held in Kuala Lumpur in 1977 with seven countries participating. Indonesia and the Philippines have been of full value to the movement since becoming members. As new members of the club, Indonesia hosted the X SEA Games in Jakarta in 1979, and the Philippines hosted for the first time in 1981 in Manila when over 2,000 athletes and officials took part. The XII Games were to be held in Brunei to start anew the alphabetical schedule of hosts, but Singapore took over when the tiny nation begged off because of its preparations for the celebration of its forthcoming independence from the United Kingdom. Since that time the Games have gone from strength to strength, the XIII being held in Bangkok, XIV in Jakarta and the XV in Kuala Lumpur in 1989, which saw the return of Laos and Vietnam for the first time under the new title. With nine out of the ten member countries participating, it was not only the largest in the history of the Games to date but also in the number of athletes and officials with a total 3,160 on hand. Manila hosted the next SEA Games, followed by Singapore when 4,6ll athletes and officials were on hand. The XVIII SEA Games in Chiang Mai broke new ground in that it was the first time the Games had been held outside the capital city of the host nation; it was also the first time that all 10 member nations - the last re-entry being Cambodia - turned up to compete. The XIX SEA Games was held at Jakarta with a record number of 6007 athletes and officials participated. A total of 34 sporting disciplines with 1,432 medals were offered in this Game. It was a far cry from the first Games held in Thailand 38 years ago, when 800 pioneers turned up to contest 12 sporting events. After much coaxing from the Southeast Asia Games Federation Council, Brunei Darussalam accepted to host the XX SEA Games for the first time. In view of the facilities available, a total of 21 sporting disciplines will be offered during the Games from 7th - 15th August 1999. Polo will be introduced for the first time in the Games. The XVIII SEA Games in Chiang Mai saw the full turn-out of 10 member nation for the first time, but the progress in improving the quality of participation in the Asian and Olympic Games from the SEA family is slow. Since the birth of SEAP Games, Thailand , the Philippines and Malaysia have won a Silver and Bronze medal each and Indonesia a Gold, Silver and Bronze in the Olympic Games. Whether this successes would had been achieved if there were no SEAP / SEA Games is difficult to say but there are more people knocking on the door for Asian and Olympic selection after participating in the SEA Games. Another welcome development in the prominence given to the region’s endogenous sports and its potential in being accepted for competition in the Asian Games. Sepak Takraw was accepted for SEAP Games competition in 1965 and it has been in every Games programme since then except in 1969 when the Games were held in Rangoon. The name Sepak Takraw itself was coined at a Federation Meeting in Kuala Lumpur in 1965, combining the Malaysian and Thai names for the traditional sport. It has since enjoyed international status as a competitive sports and been a demonstration sport in the 1982 Asian Games in New Delhi. Silat Olahraga, a martial art of the region, and traditional boat races were SEA Games event for the first time in Jakarta in 1987. They are in the program since then. Silat Olahraga has made giant strides outside the SEA Games framework and there are World Championships with good participation from European countries as well. In 1989 Kuala Lumpur SEA Games, body building has been paired off as one event with weight lifting and the traditional boat race taking refuge under yachting. Wushu another martial art and squash, were first introduced in the Manila XVI SEA Games 1991. In 1989 Kuala Lumpur SEA Games, body building has been paired off as one event with weight lifting and the traditional boat race taking refuge under yachting. Athletics and swimming are compulsory sports. For the first thirteen SEAP/SEA Games (1959 - 1985), the average number of events in the Games is 16. Since then, the average rose to 28 event which Jakarta offered the highest number in 1997. The lowest number of events is 12 with 67 gold medals made up for the first Games in 1959 while the highest is 34 with 438 gold in the 1997 programme in Jakarta. Somewhere up above, Laung Sukhumanaipradit must be smiling contentedly. His vision has grown into not only the region’s major sporting attraction but, despite problems along the way, has done much to foster a closer, mutual understanding between the nations of Southeast Asia.
Source: Olympic Thailand

Honda LPGA Thailand 2007





The Honda LPGA Thailand 2007 is one of three LPGA-sanctioned events in Asia, and it's an integral part of Asian events on LPGA calendar.
The player field of Honda LPGA Thailand 2007 will be comprised of 50 leading LPGA Tour players and 10 sponsor invites, competing for a purse of US$1.3 million 72 holes. The tournament will be stroke play format with no cut.
It marks the second year of Honda's title sponsorship for the event, which could draw top names such as Paula Creamer, Annika Sorenstam and Thailand's own Virada Nirapathpongporn to participate the tournament. More



September 26, 2007 - Honda LPGA Thailand 2007, Thailand’s greatest ladies’ golf tournament is set to be held once again. Superstars from the LPGA Tour led by Annika Sorenstam, Paula Creamer, and “Pro Oui” Virada Nirapathpongporn, along with leading Thai players are confirmed to compete for a historical 45 million Baht (US $1.3 million) on 25-28 October at the Siam Country Club, Pattaya Old Course. Building on the success of last year’s Honda LPGA Thailand, Honda Automobile (Thailand) and Channel 7 join together to host the event for the second year, giving a great opportunity for Thailand to welcome back 60 of the world’s leading female golfers, who will battle for the prize money of US$1.3 million or around 45 million Baht. Mr. Pitak Pruittisarikorn, Director, Honda Automobile (Thailand) Co.,Ltd. said, “The fact that we have been able to host this event in Thailand for the second year is the result of the hard work and sincere efforts of the many people involved, and they are very happy to see it become a reality. It is a good opportunity for young golfers to develop their game by closely observing the technique of some of the world’s golf experts and it will inspire more young people to get interested in golf. Furthermore, for the Honda LPGA Thailand 2007, we have prepared a special hole-in-one prize for any golfer who can make a hole in one on the par 3,16th hole at the Siam Country Club, Pattaya Old Course. The prize is a new 2.4 EL Honda CR-V worth 1,470,000 baht. “Besides the golf tournament, another activity we are doing in conjunction with it is to plant trees for the “Plant the Planet” project of Honda, in an effort to join in the campaign to stop global warming and celebrate the auspicious 80th birthday of His Majesty the King. The money earned from the auction of some of the famous golfers’ personal items at the Charity Night function on 24th October will be used to buy golden shower trees and plant them on Cheejan Hill, Nongpreu district and Pong district in Pattaya City and Chonburi province,” added Pitak.Many LPGA stars have confirmed to compete in Honda LPGA Thailand 2007, including Sorenstam, the former world number one from Sweden; “Pink Panther” Creamer, who is the fastest player in LPGA Tour history to earn US$ 3 million; Japan’s Ai Miyazato; , Morgan Pressel, who is an American rising star and the youngest to win an LPGA major championship; along with Stacy Prammanasudh, Julieta Granada, and Angela Park, all well-known among Thai fans.
“It’s only a month until the world’s biggest ladies’ golf tour will return to Thailand for the second time. The names ‘Thailand,’ ‘Pattaya,’ and ‘Chonburi’ will appear on every media channel around the world for four days throughout the tournament. It is because 60 of the world’s leading players will compete in the tournament. Daily news reports will be covered by every media. Therefore, during the last weekend of October, golf will create great boost to Thailand’s tourism industry,” said Surang Prempree, Managing Director, Bangkok Broadcasting and Television Co.,Ltd., authorized promoter of Honda LPGA Thailand 2007.“Thai golf and sports fans from every age group will have a great time watching both on the course and from live coverage by Channel 7. This is because top players like Annika Sorenstam, Paula Creamer, Ai Miyazato, and Morgan Pressel have committed to play in this year’s tournament. As for fans who would like to observe the development of Asian players, they can follow Jennifer Rosales from the Philippines, Lim Siew Ai from Malaysia, and Virada Nirapathpongporn. All of them are playing on the LPGA Tour this year. We will also witness Thailand’s Onnarin Sattayabanphot’s progress. Onnarin, who has won on the Duramed Futures Tour this year, had the best result among Thai players last year in the Honda LPGA Thailand 2006,” added Surang. Additionally, in order to give amateurs a chance to be part of Honda LPGA Thailand 2007, “Road to Honda LPGA Thailand 2007” was held to recruit female amateurs from all over Thailand, whose handicap was not more than 9 to compete in the prestigious “Honda LPGA Thailand 2007.” Road to Honda LPGA Thailand 2007 will be played for 10 days and divided into three stages. After the completion of two stages, Patcharajutar “Ply” Kongkraphan and Thidapa Suwannapura are the leaders.Hee-Won Han, the reigning champion from Korea, is ready to defend her title. Last year she was red hot, shooting 14 under par 202 and pocketed 7 million Baht. Chris Higgs, LPGA senior vice president and chief operations officer said, “We are excited Morgan and Ai have committed to play in the Honda LPGA Thailand 2007 and join the strong field of LPGA stars who are returning to Thailand. This will be the first time for both young stars to compete in the LPGA’s Thailand event, which offers a first-class venue in the Siam Country Club, Pattaya Old Course.” Robbie Henchman, Senior Vice President, Director of Golf, Asia, IMG said, "We are delighted to see the strong field of players participating the Honda LPGA Thailand 2007. This will be a great opportunity for golf fans in Thailand and around Asia to see the best women's professional golf players competing in Pattaya." Siam Country Club, Pattaya, one of the best golf courses in Thailand, has been opened for more than 35 years, located among breathtaking view on an 800 rais, east of Sukhumvit road, 15 minutes from Pattaya beach, Chonburi.
Major renovations to the course and clubhouse were completed in May. The original layout has been preserved, but modifications were made from tees to greens to be ready to host international tournaments. The clubhouse has been upgraded to a modern look that offers a cozy and relaxed atmosphere to view all 18 holes.The Honda LPGA Thailand 2007 is one of the three LPGA events in Asia. The field comprised of the top-50 available players from the LPGA Official Money List and 10 exemptions. It is 72-hole, stroke play event with no cut. Honda is also holding warm-up activities leading to Honda LPGA Thailand 2007 by organizing golf events for Honda customers from every age group both for family and individuals, such as the Honda Junior Golf Championship, Honda Amateur Tournament and Honda Short Game Clinic.For golf fans who do not want to miss watching world class players, tickets are available at all branches of ThaiticketMajor. Thursday, Friday passes are 200 Baht (US $6) , Saturday pass is 300 Baht (US$10), Sunday pass is 400 Baht (US$13). Four-day passes are 700 Baht (US$22). Golf fans 60+ years old can buy a four-day pass for only 500 Baht (US$16) and admission is free for children under 20! For more information about the tournament, visit www.hondalpgathailand2007.com


2007-10-17

The Royal Barge Procession Full Dress Rehearsals




The Royal Barge Procession Full Dress Rehearsals On the Chao Phraya River October 26 and 29, 2007 Please click to view
Three and twenty Mandarins of the lowest Order of the Palace appeared first, every one in a Balon [barge] of State…These were followed by fifty other balons of his Majesties Officers...[which] had from thirty to sixty oars apiece...After these came twenty balons more, bigger than the former...Next, the king appeared in his, raised upon a throne of a piramidal figure and extraordinary well gilt...and...rowed by six score watermen... We reckoned in all one hundred and fifty nine, of which the biggest were near six score foot long and hardly six foot over at the broadest place. — A description of the royal barge procession of 1685 by French Jesuit, Père Guy Tachard
Over three centuries have since passed, yet this breathtaking spectacle remains awe inspiring, not only in its majestic beauty but also the grace with which the fleet of 52 barges solemnly glides down the Chao Phraya River — the ‘River of Kings’.
When the gilded paddles of the principal barge, the swan-prowed Sri Suphannahongse, are raised in unison, it is as though a mythical bird is about to lift from the water.
The other 51 barges, arrayed across the river in what is traditionally termed a battle formation, create a panorama of rare regal splendour. The blare of conches and trumpets, the songs of the coxswains, and the stentorian chants of the paddlers provide the right cadence for the oar strokes, enhance the spectacle, and mesmerize spectators into respectful silence – much as these same rare sounds have done for hundreds of years.
The Royal Barge Procession is the ultimate reflection of the Thai fascination with water, the central element in Thailand’s rites of passage, festivals, and religion. An aerial view of Thailand’s northern and central plains reveals why. A vast silvery labyrinth of natural and hand-dug waterways slices through the lowland plains. Villages hug banks of rivers and canals and draw from them the life-sustaining water that nourishes lush crops and harbours fish, the two staples of the Thai diet. It is along these liquid highways that a variety of water processions have travelled over the centuries.
In descending order of importance, they include:
Coronations It was only appropriate that a prince travel in the most exalted vessel available to the most important event in his life: his coronation. Although wheeled vehicles have replaced barges, records of their magnificence abound in ancient manuscripts.
A Water-borne Procession with a Buddha image Since ancient times, barges have carried revered Buddha images. When King Naresuan the Great (1590-1605) rode to battle, the Suphannahongse royal barge bearing the Phra Chai Buddha (Victory Buddha) image containing relics of the Lord Buddha led the flotilla. In 1781, barges transported the Emerald Buddha from Ayutthaya to its final home in Bangkok’s Wat Phra Kaeow. The famous image that now occupies the nave of Wat Suthat was transported from Sukhothai to Bangkok on a raft.
Royal River Tour of the Great Capital In the former capital of Ayutthaya and also in Bangkok, kings embarked on royal river tours along the moats that embraced their stout city walls. It was for this reason, as well as defensive considerations, that until the late 19th century, no permanent bridges were erected over the moats, and the royal progress on these annual circuits went unimpeded.
The Royal Kathin Procession to Present Monastic Robes The progenitor of the Royal Barge Procession as we know it today dates from the reign of King Ramkhamhaeng of Sukhothai (1275-1316 AD). The Lanna Chronicles note that the King was conveyed by night in a fleet of barges to present robes to the monks to mark the end of the three-month Buddhist Rains Retreat, a ceremony known as the Kathin ritual. By the mid-Ayutthaya period a few hundred years later, these processions were conducted during the day.
By the reign of Rama I of Bangkok (1782-1809), the rite had been combined with those for waterborne Buddha images. As it is celebrated today, the Praratcha Phithi Phra Yuha Yatra Cholamak (Royal Waterway Procession) involves barges carrying the deeply revered Phra Buddha Singha image and the Royal Family to present robes to the monks at Wat Arun to mark Awk Phansa, the end of the three-month Buddhist Rains Retreat in October.
The Petch Phuang Major Battle Formation The Petch Phuang Major Battle Formation, dating from the reign of King Narai the Great, is employed by the reigning king in the waterborne Royal Krathin Ceremony, the Royal Barge Procession of the Buddha Image, or in important occasions such as the Royal River Tour of the Great Capital.
The Petch Phuang Procession was originally the grandest of all royal barge processions. Based on a formation from ancient times, the Petch Phuang Major Battle Formation serves as a reminder of the time when barges served as Siamese battleships.
The rationale for adopting the battle formation for the Royal Kathin ceremony was because during times of peace, soldiers still needed to be prepared for emergencies or surprise attacks. The season of high water was normally the most suitable time for this since the tides made it easier for the complex manoeuvre. Young men were also free from farming obligations.
Boats in the Petch Phuang Major Battle Formation are arranged in five columns. The Royal State Barges occupy the centre flanked on each side by two columns of war barges. With the minor battle formation, barges are arrayed in three columns. The formations were used long after their original battle purpose had been superseded by peace and the advent of more modern naval vessels.
Procession to Welcome Foreign AmbassadorsLetters from foreign kings were borne in grand ceremony by barges to upriver palaces. Among them was one sent by France’s Louis XIV to King Narai (1657-1688) at his palace in Lop Buri.
The honours conferred on letters were later extended to welcome foreign ambassadors. In 1855, Sir John Bowring, Queen Victoria’s envoy, arrived in the Chao Phraya estuary to negotiate a new trade treaty. He was delightfully astonished to be greeted by a convoy of gilt barges which conveyed him to Bangkok to meet King Mongkut.
Extended Journeys into the CountrysideKings travelling to the countryside on royal inspection trips slept aboard boats sumptuously fitted out with the comforts of floating palaces, as polemen silently paced back and forth on the gunwales propelling the craft upstream.
PilgrimagesJust as royalty today travels in motor convoys through Bangkok’s streets and beyond, kings of yore rode on waterways to distant religious sites. King Narai partook in a grand annual pilgrimage procession of 324 barges to pay homage to the Phra Phuttabat image in Saraburi.
Boat Races The boat races conducted each October on Thailand’s rivers have roots in royal tradition. Early Ayutthayan palace records show that races were used to predict rice yields during the coming harvests. The Asayucha race pitted the King’s Samathachai Barge against the Kraisoramuk Barge belonging to the Queen. It was the Queen’s barge the spectators cheered, for if it won the harvest would be abundant.
Chong Priang Ritual The ancient Chong Priang ritual performed on the full moon night of November is the predecessor to today’s beautiful Loi Krathong, or Festival of Lights, when floral floats bearing candles and incense are launched along the waterways. Then, royalty rode barges to place lit lanterns on the river, making a delightful spectacle.
The magnificence of today’s Royal Barge procession amply conveys the mystique of the myriad processions of times past, a beautiful reminder of another age when rivers were roads and life was more fluid.
Chong Priang-Lote Chut-Loi Khome Long Nam Ancient Royal RitualThe Jong Priang-Lote Choot-Loi Khome Long Nam royal ritual begins with an assembly of Buddhist monks for the recital of evening prayers. The next morning, the monks receive offerings from the King. Special priests then perform a ritual in the Brahmin Hall. Candles and the priang receptacle, which contains oxen fat or butter, are presented to the King. The candles to be presented as sacred offerings are anointed with oxen fat or butter, lit by the King and placed in three distinct types of lanterns. Each denotes the rank and social status of the individual.
The khome chai lantern with its nine-tiered umbrella is symbolic of the King. Its bamboo frame is covered with white fabric decorated with stained glass or coloured mirrors. The khome chai lantern was fixed to a wooden lantern pole with swan-shaped hooks adorned with dainty bells. In contrast, the khome pratiab lantern of the royal concubine, features a seven-tiered umbrella, and the tubular-shaped bamboo khome boriwarn lantern of the royal entourage and attendants had a three-tiered umbrella.
The lit lanterns are hoisted on poles lining the palace walls as well as along the outer walls of the palace and the living quarters of the court attendants. At the end of the designated period, the lanterns are taken down from the poles and floated in the waterways.
Story by Steve Van Beek
GUIDE TO THE ROYAL BARGESThe Royal State Barges and the Royal Kathin CeremonyIntroducing The Principle Royal BargesThe Royal Barges in the Rattanakosin Period: A Precious HeritagePlease click to view A BRIEF HISTORY Please click to view
ROYAL BARGE PROCESSION FULL DRESS REHEARSALS OCTOBER 26 and 29, 2007Please click to view
Special Feature: Permission for re-publication of the above text is granted on condition that the full text and image(s) are being used strictly for non-commercial purposes and to promote travel to Thailand. Sources of text and images, credits for text and photography, as specified, the Tourism Authority of Thailand News Room copyright acknowledgement, domain name and/or hyperlink to www.TATnews.org must be included in the acknowledgements. Upon publication, please send e-mail notification to: editor@tatnews.org. For enquiries, please write to editor@TATnews.org Thank you.

From: Tourism Authority of Thailand.

2007-10-05

Hidden Wonders - Bangkok’s 9th International Festival of Dance and Music

It has been nine years since Bangkok took its first steps towards establishing itself as a Southeast Asian cultural hub. Its been nine years since Bangkok’s International Festival of Dance & Music set the ball rolling. Today the festival has garnered a reputation for excellence presenting only the best from around the world to discerning audiences in Bangkok. In keeping with this tradition the ninth edition (Sept 9-11 Oct) of the festival has in store acts that will find favour even with the most demanding of patrons.
As Thailand celebrates His Majesty the King’s 80th Birthday this year, the festival in effect is dedicated to Him and opens with a spectacular performance paying homage to the musician in His Majesty. During his reign His Majesty has penned some 48 compositions, many in the blues style and the opening act, ‘His Majesty’s Blues Concert’, has 25 of Thailand’s leading singers giving voice to some of these compositions. Accompanied by an orchestra, singers like Ford Sobchai Kraiyurasen, Jennifer Kim, Radklao Amaradit, Ta Surachai Wongbuakao and Ben Chalatit Tantiwut among others, will more than do justice to the compositions. Pongprom Sanitwong Na Ayuthaya, producer, composer and musician is the man behind this amazing project. It was in 2006 that over a 100 Thai artists, cutting across label lines came together in celebration of the 60th Anniversary of His Majesty’s Accession to the Throne. A four set CD album was also released which soon became a collector’s item. This blues concert is another opportunity to hear rare compositions in concert and makes for a fitting opening to a spectacular festival.
More in Music
Music has been central to the festival through the years and this edition too has a lot to offer: a percussion ensemble from India, a symphony concert and an evening devoted to jazz. On Sept 12, an all-female percussion ensemble, Stree Shakti will take the stage. Led by Anuradha Pal it is one of India’s leading percussion ensembles and Anuradha Pal is arguably one of the sub-continents best percussionists. Using traditional percussion instruments like tabla, ghatam, kanjira, pakhawaj and mridangam the ensemble churns out powerful beats. The music finds its basis in the classical traditions of India but is in no way out of context in the modern era.
Moving to another classical tradition, Sept 23 sees a symphony concert by the Ekaterinburg Symphony Orchestra. The orchestra dates back to 1912 and is one of the best operatic and Ballet orchestras in Russia. In honour of His Majesty (Rama IX)’s Birthday the orchestra will tackle Symphony No. IX in D minor, Op. 125 by Ludwig Van Beethoven. This symphony by Beethoven was a landmark event, for the first time a composer used the human voice like he would an instrument. So expect a full chorus with four soloist singers. Also on the programme is Scheherazade Op. 35 by Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov. Conductor Mikahil Granovsky from the Bolshoi Theatre, one of the most looked-forward to conductors in Russia will take the baton.
On 8th October jazz and popular music fans will hear all permutations and combinations possible, First on is Coda Jazz Group from Australia which effortlessly blends classical, rock, electronic, operatic with jazz, creating a rich tapestry of music, With three albums to their credit the group popular on the Australian festival circuit, will delight with its heady mix.The same evening Saskia Laroo band from The Netherlands takes the stage next. Saskia Laroo has been hailed by the American press as ‘Lady Miles’. A trumpet stylist, Saskia’s multi-national unit pulsates with contemporary sounds, groovy rhythms, exciting solos, and rap vocals. Saskia has performed with the likes of George Benson and is a name well received all over the world including at festivals like Montreux. The last act of the evening is Monsieur Camembert which has been at the forefront of ‘Gyprock’ explosion in Australia for the past eight years. A triple Aria Award winning ensemble, with Yaron Hallis leading from the front the group promises the ultimate in music.
The Opera Quotient
When it comes to music Operas are the ultimate expression and this festival sees two: Eugene Onegin (Sept 22) and La Traviata (Sept 24) both staged by Ekaterinburg Opera Theatre, Russia, one of the oldest and most respected companies in Russia. The staging of Eugene Onegin is a remarkable event; it is the first Russian opera to be staged in Bangkok ever. An opera in three parts the story centres around a selfish hero who lives to regret his blasé rejection of a young woman's love and his careless incitement of a fatal duel with his best friend. It is the perfect example of a lyric opera and closely follows Pushkin’s original work. Around 180 artists (cast and orchestra) will bring to stage this, Tchaiovsky masterpiece.
The second opera of the season is a Verdi favourite: La Traviata. Based on Alexandre Dumas’ play La dame aux Cameilas it is an intimate work dealing with the conflict between the ‘real’ world of love and the ‘false’ world of societal expectations. The hero is tricked into giving up his love because she is well below his ‘station’. Playing Violetta is soprano Natalia Margrit, Italy’s most well-known soprano and a regular performer at La Scala and the Paris Opera House (she has also performed with Jose Carreras), while Alfredo is tackled by Dmytro Kuzmin, a soloist with the Kiev Opera House.
From: http://www.thailandwonders.com/Bangkok’s-9th-International-Festival-of-Dance-and-Music-168G.aspx

2007-10-04

Phuket Thailand Open 2007

Phuket Thailand Open 2007- Update 05/10/2007

Date : 31/10/2007 To 04/11/2007 Place : Karon Beach, Phuket

Phuket Thailand Open is part of the Swatch-FIVB World Tour for professional women players and is the biggest beach volleyball event staged in Thailand. The Phuket Thailand Open is the last stop on the 2007 World Tour. Teams who will play in the tournament will be all the top beach volleyball teams from around the world: Brazil, USA, Germany, Switzerland, Norway, Netherlands, Australia, China and Japan.
More Information:Website:http://www.pentanglepromotions.com ,http://www.fivb.org/EN/BeachVolleyball/Competitions/WorldTour/2007/beach_page.asp?TRN=WPHU2007&PG=PRTel: 02 382 3491-3

2007-10-01

Thailand in brief .About thailand

Thailand in brief
Location Siturated in the heart of Southeast Asian mainland which covering an area of 513,115 square kilometres and for centuries knowns by outsiders as siam, Thailand borders the Lao PDR and Myanmar to the north, Cambodia and the Gulf of Thailand to the east ,Myanmar and the Indian Ocean to the West and Malaysia to the south. Topography Thailand is divided into 4natural regions: -The mountainous North, with its profusion of multi -coloured orchids fascinating native handicrafts and winter temperatures are sufficiently cool to permit cultivation of temperate fruits such as strawberries and peaches. -The high Northeast Plateau,which still jealously guards its many archaeological and anthropological mysteries. -The Central Plain , one otf the world’s most fertile rice and fruit-growing areas with colourful traditional culture and way of life as well as the sandy beaches of the East Coast and vibrant cosmopolitan Bangkok. -The peninsular Soouth where the unspoiled beaches and idyllic island complement economically vital tin mining , rubber cultivation and fishing. Climate The climate is tropical with an average high temperature of35’C and low of 25’C in Bangkok.There are three overlapping seasons; the monsoon that lasts from May to September, from when it turns moderate to cool until February and warns up until April. Temprratures are highest inMarch/April and lowest in December/January. Time Time in Thailand is 7 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT+7) Population Thais are well –known for their friendlinessand hospitaliy .A large majority of over 62 millo\ion citizens of Thailand are ethnic Thai,along with strong communities whose ethnic origins lie in China,India and elswhere.About 10million people reside in the capital city of Bangkok. Religion Buddhlsm the national religion, is the professed faith of 95%of the population.Isiam Christianity, Hinduism and others are embrace by the rest of the population. There is absolute relligious freedom. The King of Thailand, under the constitution and in practice , is pstron of all ajor religions embraced by the people.
Language The official national language, spoken by almost 100%of the population, is Thai .English and some Chinese dialects are usually understood in business circles.However, English is widely spoken and understood, particularly in Bangkok snd other major cities . Thai-English road signs are also found nationwide. Government Thailand has had a constitutional monarchy since 1932 Parliament is composed of 2 houses, The House of Representatices and the Senate. Both representatives and senators are elected by the people .A prime minister elected from among the representatives leads the government.The country is divide into 76 provindes. The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration comes under an elected governot. Appointed provincial governors admintster the othe 75 provinces (Changwat) , which are divided into districts (Amphoe), sub-districts (Tambon) and villages (Mu Ban) Useful Information Immigration Foreigners seeking entry into the Kingdom of Thailand for tourism, study, business, investment, employment or other purposes must possess valid travel documents recognized by the Royal Thai Government as described in the 1979 Immigration Act and related provisions. Visas may be obtained from all Royal Thai Embassies and Consulates General. However, tourists from some specific countries are exempted from visa requirements and may stay for up to 30 days, providing they have adequate means of support and hold travel tickets confirming their departure within this period. Moreover, travelers from some countries may apply for a 15 day tourist visa upon arrival at an immigration checkpoint at one of the country’s international ports of entry. Visitors with transit or courtesy visas are permitted to stay up to 30 days and up to 60 days with a tourist visa Anyone wishing to apply for a visa extension should apply at the Office of the Immigration Bureau, 507 Soi SuanPhlu , Sathon Tai Road, Bangkok, For future information, please call 0 2287 3101-10 or visit www.police.go.th Tourist Information Services Tourist information is available at the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) in Bangkok, its local offices in 22 major cities ( listed on the back cover ) and the TAT information counters at every airport where there is a TAT local office. They provide maps, brochures and useful information. TAT Call Center, Tel: 1672
Tourist Police In 1982, the Tourist Police was set up to coordinate with the Tourism Authority of Thailand in providing safety for tourists. Its responsibilities include receiving and acknowledging claims and complaints, conducting investigations and acting as coordinators of tourist security. At present, some 500 tourist police offices are stationed in major tourist areas. Bilingual Tourist Police are affiliated with the Tourism Authority of Thailand offices in Bangkok, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Pattaya, Kanchanaburi, Nakhon Ratchasima, Udon Thani, khon kaen,chiang mai, Chiang Rai, Mae Hong Son, Phisanurok, Nakhon Sawan, Surat Thani, Phuket and Shongkhla to Provide assistance for visitors. In the case of an emergency, contact the Tourist Police Centre, Ratchadamnoen Nok Avenue,Bangkok 10200. Tel: 1155 (Free 24 hours) Medical Services All tourism destinations and provincial capitals have hospitals and clinics staffed by well-trained doctors and nurses. In the case of an emergency, an ambulance can be summoned from any private hospital. Currency and Exchange Service The Thai unit of currency is the baht. The baht is divided into 100 satang. Coins are valued at 25 satang, 1 baht, 5 baht and 10 baht. Banknotes are valued at 20, 50, 100, 500and 1,000 baht. Major currency bills and travelers cheques are cashed easily at hotels, tourist shops, all provincial banks, shopping centres and money changers. Travellers cheques are best changed in banks (you will need your passport). Rates of exchange at banks or authorised money changers are better than those at hotels and department stores. Credit cards are widely accepted. Business Hours Most commercial concerns in Bangkok operate five days a week. Government offices are generally open between 8.30 a.m. and 4.30p.m. with a 12.00 p.m. to 1 p.m. lunchbreak, Monday through Friday,except on public holidays. Private business maintain similar hours – 8.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. , with certain exception. Most shops are open 12 hours a day, seven days a week. Tipping It is customary to tip porters and hotel personnel who have given good personal service. A 10 – 15% tip is appreciated in restuarents, particularly where service charges are waived. It is not necessary to tip cinema ushers.
Clothing Light,loose cotton clothing is best. Nylon should be avoided. Sweaters are recommended for the evenings during the cool season or if visiting mountainous areas and remote national parks. Jackets and ties are required in certain restuarents. Electricity The electric current is 220 volt AC (50 cycles) throughout the country. There are many types of plugs and sockets in use. Traveller with electric shavers.tape recorders and other appliances should carry a plug-adapter kit. The larger hotels are likely to have 110 volt transfomers available. Export of Antiquities Buddha images,Bodhisattva images or fragments,part of ancient monuments and prehistoric objects,are forbidden to be taken out of Thailand. Newly cast Buddha images in complete condition can be exported for worship,cultural exchange or educational purposes with licenses issued by the Fine Arts Department. Not more than 5 pieces per person shall be allowed. Reproductions of antiquities can also be exported with licenses. Objects together with photographs and applicant’s passport with photocopy (in case of export of Buddha images the photocopy of passport must be certified as true copy by the related Embassyor Consulate in Thailand) must be taken to any of the following places: the office of Archaeology and National Museums in Bangkok (Tel:0 2628 5032), Chiang Mai National Museum in Chiang Mai or Thalang National Museum in Phuket. A license issuing process lasts for 4 working days. Exchange Control Any amount of foreign currency may be brought into the country. Visitors may take foreign currency out of Thailand,but no more than the amount stated in the customs declaration made on arrival. Travellers leaving Thailand may take out no more than 50,000 baht per person in Thai currency. International Airports and Airport Tax Thailand currently has five international airports, at Bangkok ( Don Mueang Airport ), Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Hat Yai and Phuket. Bangkok International Airport is located some 22 kilometres north of downtown Bangkok. There are two international terminals. Please be sure to check which terminal you will depart from when reconfirming your flight. ( Bangkok International Airport directory assistance, Tel: 0 2535 1111.) The domestic and cargo terminals are located nearby. Airport tax for international passengers is 500 baht per person.
Visa Immigration Information 1. According to the Interior Ministerial Office, the following is a list of countries, which have concluded an agreement on the exemption of visa requirement for holders of diplomatic or official passport or service/special passport with Thailand, and permitted to stay for 30 and 90 days. List of countries:
90 Days Argentina Austria Belgium Bhutan Brazil Chile Croatia Czech Republic Germany Hungary India Israel Italy Japan Luxembourg Malaysia Mexico Netherlands Nepal Philippines Poland Romania Russia Federation Singapore Slovak Republic South Africa Switzerland Tunisia Turkey 30 Days Mongolia China Vietnam Laos Myanmar Oman 2. The following is a list of countries which have concluded agreement on the Exemption of visa requirement for holders of diplomatic, official and ordinary passports with Thailand and permitted to stay for 90 days. Republic of Peru 3. The following is a list of countries which have exempted visa requirement for holders of diplomatic, and official passports and permitted to stay for exceeding 90 days. List of countries: Finland Denmark Sweden 4. The following is a list of countries which have concluded an agreement on the exemption of visa requirement for holders of national passport with Thailand and permitted to stay for 30 and 90 days. 90 Days Brazil Chile Republic of Korea 30 Days Hong Kong SAR/Macau SAR Socialist Republic of Vietnam Laos
Tourist Visa Exemption - According to the Interior Ministerial Announcement dated 1 October B.E. 2545 (2002), 20 December B.E. 2545 (2002), 18 October B.E. 2547 (2004) and 6 May B.E. 2548 (2005), passport holder from 40 countries and Hong Kong SAR do not require a visa when entering Thailand for tourism purposes if their stay in the kingdom does not exceed 30 days. - The application must possess instrument of means of living expenses 10000 Baht per person and 20000 Baht per family accordingly. - Please also be advised that ordinary passport holders of 40 countries and Hong Kong who intend to engage in certain activities are eligible to apply for a visa when entering the kingdom if their qualifications meet the conditions set forth by the Office of Immigration Bureau. For more information Bureau, Soi Suan Plu, off South Sathorn Road, Bangkok 10120 Tel. 0 2287-3101-10 or website http://police.go.th
List of 40 countries and one region is as follows:
1. Australia : Commonwealth of Australia
2. Austria : Republic of Australia
3. Belgium : Kingdom of Belgium
4. Brazil : Federative Republic of Brazil
5. Bahrain : State of Bahrain
6. Brunei Darussalam : Negara Brunei Darussalam
7. Canada
8.Denmark : Kingdom of Denmark
9.Finland : Republic of Finland
10.France : French Republic
11.Germany : Federal Republic of Germany
12.Greece : Hellenic Republic
13.Hong Kong : Hong Kong Special Administrative Region
14.Iceland : Republic of Iceland
15.Indonesia : Republic of Indonesia
16.Ireland : Republic of Lreland
17.Lsrael : Republic of Lsrael
18.Italy : Republic of Italy
19.Japan
20.Korea : Republic of Korea
21.Kuwait : State of Kuwait
22.Luxembourg : Grand Duchy of Luxembourg
23.Malaysia
24.Netherlands : Kingdom of the Netherlands
25.New Zeland
26.Norway : Kingdom of Norway
27.Oman :Sultanate of Oman
28.Peru : Republic of Peru
29.Philippines : Republic of the Philippines
30.Portugal : Republic of Portugal
31.Qatar : State of Qatar
32.Singapore : Republic of Singapore
33.Spain : Kingdom of Spain
34.South Africa : Republic of South Africa
35.Sweden : Kingdom of Sweden
36.Switzerland : Swiss confederation
37.Terkey : Republic of Terkey
38.United Arab Emirates
39. United kingdom: United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
40. United State of America
41.Vietnam : Socialist Republic of Vietnam Temporary Tourist Visa: Visa on Arrival
- According to the Interior Ministerial Announcements, passport holder from 20 countries may apply for visas at the immigration checkpoints for the purpose of tourism for the period of not exceeding 15 days. - The applicant must possess means of living expenses 10,000 Baht per person and 20,000 Baht per family accordingly. - The applicant must produce full paid ticket which is usable within 15 days since the date of entry. - Visa on arrival is provided at 23 designated international checkpoints and should produce the application from his/her recent photograph (2 ½ inches)is attached. The application fee is 1,000 Baht. - Visitors who enter the Kingdom with Visa on Arrival generally cannot file an application for extension of stay except in special cases such as illness which prevents them from travelling, etc.They can submit an application at the Office of Immigration Bureau, Immigration Division 1, Soi Suan Plu, South Sathon Road, Bangkok 10120.Tel:0-2287-3127 or 0-2287-3101-10 ext. 2264-5 or at website http://www.police.go.th/frconten/frconten.htm
List of 20 countries is as follow:
1. Bhutan : Kingdom of Bhutan
2. China : People’s Republic of China (including Taiwan)
3. Cyprus : Republic of Cyprus
4. Czech : Czech Republic
5. Estonia : Republic of Estonia
6. Hungary : Republic of Hungary
7. Kazakhstan : Republic of Kazakhstan
8. Latvia : Republic of Latvia
9. Liechtenstein : Principality of Liechtenstein
10. Lithuania : Republic of Lithuania
11.maldives : Republic of Maldives
12.Mauritius : Republic of Mauritius
13.Oman : Sultanate of Oman
14.Poland : Republic of Poland
15.Russian Federation
16.Saudi Arabia : Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Republic of Denmark
17.Slovakia : Slovak Republic
18.Slovenia : Republic of Slovenia
19.Ukraine
List of Thailand’s immigration Checkpoints which provides facilities for issuance of visa on arrival area as follow:
1. Suvarnnabhumi Airport, Bangkok
2. Chiangmai International Airport, Chiangmai
3. Phuket International Airport, Phuket
4. Hatyai International Airport, Songkhla
5. U Tapao Airport, Rayong
6. Mae Sai Immigration Checkpoint, Chiengrai
7. Chieng Sean Immigration Checkpoint, Chiengrai
8. Chieng Khong Immigration Checkpoint, Chiengrai
9. Betong Immigration Checkpoint, Yala
10. Sadoa Immigration Checkpoint, Songkhla
11. Samui Airport, Surat Thani
12. Sukhothai International Airport, Tak Immigration Checkpoint
13. Bangkok Harbour Immigration Checkpoint, Bangkok
14. Sri Racha Immigration Checkpoint, Chonburi
15. Mabtaput Immigration Checkpoint, Rayong
16. Nong Khai Immigration Checkpoint, Nong khai
17. Samui Immigration Checkpoint, Surat Thani
18. Phuket Immigration Checkpoint, Phuket
19. Satun Immigration Checkpoint, Sutun
20. Krabi Immigration Checkpoint, Krabi
21. Songkhla Harbour Immigration Checkpoint, Songkhia
22. Chiangrai Airport Immigration Checkpoint, Chaingrai
23. Surat Thani Airport Immigration Checkpoint, Surat Thani Visa Extension Application for a 15-day extension of stay for any visa is possible at the immigration Office at Soi Suan Plu, Sathon Tai Road, Bangkok. Tel:0-2287-9101-10. The fee is 500 Baht. Re-Entry Permits Application fee for a single re-entry permit is 1,000 Baht. A multiple re-entry permit (per visa) is 3,800 Baht Application fee for a single re-entry permit is 1,000 Baht. A multiple re-entry permit (per visa) is 3,800 Baht Tansportation Airport Transfer Private airport-to-city transfer options include hotel services, airport limousine service (approx 650 baht from the airport to downtown), and metered-taxis from public taxi stands located outside arrival halls. Public transport options include train and Airport Bus. Don Mueang railway station is just across the road from the airport and provides services to Bangkok where connections can be made to all parts of the country Airport Buses from the airport to the city and back, operate from 5 a.m. till midnight, at approximately 30 minute intervals. For information, phone 0 2995 1252. Free shuttle bus services between domestic and international airport (1 kilometre apart) are available every 20 minutes from 5 a.m.-11.30 p.m. Getting around Bangkok Public buses are plentiful and cheap, with 6 baht minimum and 22 baht maximum fares to most Destinations within metropolitan. A Bus Route Map is available at bookshops or the TAT tourist information counters. Taxis cruising the streets of Bangkok, and designated “taxi-meter” charge 35 baht for the first 3 kilometres and approximately 5 baht for every kilometer thereafter. Tuk-Tuks or three wheel taxis are quite popular among the tourists for short journeys inside Bangkok. Fare must be bargained in advance. BTS Sky Trains ply along Silom, Sukhumvit and Phahonyothin Roads, connecting many leading hotels, public parks and major shopping areas. The fares range from 10-40 baht per trip depending on distance, 280 baht for 3-day Tourist Pass and 100 baht for 1-day Tourist Pass. BTS call Center 0 2617 6000 or visit www.bts.co.th Bangkok Metro (M.R.T.) operate the route from Hua Lamphong to Bung Sue everyday during 6.00 a.m. to 12.00 p.m.
The fare starts from 14-36 baht depending on distance. Call: 0 2354 2000 or visit www.bangkokmetro.co.th
River Taxis: There are many types of boats that navigate the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok. Private “cigarette long-thil boats” are fast and available for tours of the city’s huge canal system. Public river taxis run from dawn till dusk from Wat Ratchasingkhon to as far north as Nonthaburi. The journey takes over an hour. Smaller trips between other landings can cost as little as 9 baht. Getting around Thailand
Air There are many airlines operate regular domestic flights from Bangkok to major provincial and resort destinations. Advance booking is necessary when travelling during the high season and public holidays. For more information, please contact directly at those airlines as follow; - Air Asia (FD) Tel: 0 2515 9999 www.airasia.com - Bangkok Airways (PG) Tel: 0 2265 5678, 0 2265 5555 http://www.bangkokair.com - Nok Air (DD) Tel: 1318, 0 2251 1812 http://www.nokair.co.th - Orient Thai Airlines (OX) Tel: 1126, 0 2267 3210-5 www.orient-thai.com (ENG) www.onetwo-go.com (thai) - P.B. Air (9Q) Tel: 0 2261 0220-5 www.pbair.com - Phuket Airlines Tel: 0 2679 8999 http://www.phuketairlines.com - Thai Airways International (TG) Tel: 1566, 0 2628 2000 www.thaiairways.com Rail The state Railway of Thailand operates four train lines – Northern, Northeastern, Eastern and Southern – accessing nearly all major provinces. Train fares depend on class of carriage and destination. Twenty-day rail passes are available for second and third-class carriages. Hua Lampong (Bangkok Railway Station) is the main station. Call 1690 (Hot Line), 0 2220 4334 or 0 2220 4444 or visit www.railway.co.th for further information. Tickets can be bought at any railway station. Buses Buses and coaches are the only mode of transport to access all provinces in Thailand, running both to and form Bangkok and between each other. Option included ordinary air-conditioned coaches and VIP air-conditioned coaches with refreshment services. Booking can be made through the following bus terminals: - Mochit 2 Bus terminal, for northern and northern eastern destinations and Pattaya, Trat Southern Bus Terminal,for southern,eastern and western destinations including, Pattaya Damnoen Saduak Floating Market and Kanchanaburi. -Eastern Busterminal (Ekkamai) ,for routes to Pattaya ,Rayong,Trat and other points east. For more information, contact Transport Co.Ltd. (commonly called by Thai as Bo Kho So ) at tel:02936 2852-66.orwww.transport.co.th Car Hire Travellers with valid international driving license may choose to hire a car .English-language road signs and maps are commonplace. The Bangkok Yellow Pages list local and international automobile rental companies. Each offers different condition . Self-drive and chauffeur-driven automobiles are widely available. International care hire companies such as Avis,Hertz and Budget operate in Bangkok, Pattaya, Hat yai, Phuket, Chiang Mai and on Ko Samui. Communication Postal Services Thailand’s mail service is reliable and efficient. Major hotels provide basic postal services on their premises. Provincial post offices are usually open from 8.00a.m. to 4.30 p.m.. Telephones International phone calls can be made quite easily from mid-to-upper-level hotels or international call booths in tourist areas.There is direct dialing to and from more than 80 countries on five continents. General Post Office (GPO) on Charoenkrung Road, or any major Post Office also has special booths for making overseas calls. For more information, call CAT call center, Tel;0 2614 1000. At present, all telephone numbers (for local calls and long distance calls within the country) have nine digits i.e. 0 2250 0050(Bangkok call). 0 5324 8604(provincial), 0 1435 9117(Mobile phone call). The international dialing cord for Thailand is 66. When making international calls from Thailand, First dial 001+country code +telephone number. For direct assistance, call 1133(local) or 100 (international). International Roaming Mobile Phone A Subscriber Identity Module Card (SIM Card) is now available for Thai and foreign customers who are traveling around for work. The SIM Card must be used in conjunction with a Digital GSM mobile phone within the 900-MHz range or a Digital PCN mobile phone within the 1800-MHz range .
Fax and E-mailAll of Thailand ‘s leading hotels offer facsimile (fax) and e-mail services. Numerous private businesses offer such facilities, most often in conjunction with translation services.
Internet ServicesThailand has been expanding its information service for residents and tourists alike through the Internet system. Services are now available at Thailand’s leading hotels and at the many “cybercafe’s” that are cropping up in all major tourists destination.
Do ’s & Don’ts in Thailand
Whilst Thais do not expect foreigners to know and understand their culture, visitors can ensure a very pleasant stay by remembering a few simple tips. Dress conservatively in temples and government offices. Short trousers and skirts, and shirts that expose the shoulders are not acceptable in temples in particular. Remove the shoes when entering a temple’s hall. As the feet are considered unclean, never point at anyone or anything with them. In contrast, do not touch anyone on the head as this is considered the most sacrosanct part of the body. Do not climb upon Buddha images to take a photograph. Women should never touch monks at all. Try never to show anger or strong feelings in public as theirs consider this improper in an adult. Finally, the monarchy and religion are held in the highest respect in Thailand and any comments or actions considered derogatory to either are not to lerated.
Special Advice - Beware of unauthorized people who offer their service as guides. For all tourist information, contact the Tourism Authority of Thailand, Tel: ] 0 22257612-4 - Observe all normal precautions as regards to personal safety, as well as the safety of your belongings. Walking alone on quiet streets or deserted areas is not recommended. Be sure that all your valuables-money, jewellery, and airline tickets are properly protected from loss. Visitors needing assistance relating to safety, unethical practices, or other matters, please call the Tourist Police at Tel: 1155 - Drop your garbage into a waste container. The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration is now strictly enforcing the law in an effort to keep the city clean and healthy. The fine will be imposed on a person who spits, discards cigarette stubs, or drops rubbish in public areas. - Sex with children is a crime. Whoever has sexual intercourse or commits an indecent act on a child (any person under the age of 18 years),whether such child shall consent or not, shall be punished with imprisonment or with a fine or both. - Do not get yourself involved with drugs. Penalties for drug offences are very severe in Thailand. - Do not support any manner of wild animal abuse. Never purchase any product or souvenirs made from wild animals including reptiles like snakes, monitor lizards, and also turtle shell and ivory. Avoid patronizing local restaurants that serve wild animal delicacies. It is against the law to slaughter wildlife for food in Thailand.
Shopping Advice
What to Buy Thai silk, cotton, nielloware, silverware, brozeware, pottery and celadon, pewter, precious stones, finished jewellery and a dazzling range of folk handcrafts make memorable gifts and souvenirs. International standard ready-made sportwear and leisurewear is inexpensive and quality tailors and dressmakers offer reliable 24 hour service in Bangkok and major tourist destination.
Shopping Tips Department stores and a number of shops in Bangkok have fixed prices, but at most of others bargaining is acceptable and expected; some department store will even offer a discount on expensive items like jewellery and fine furniture. No fixed rules can be given on the process depending as it does on the bargainer’s skill and the shopkeeper’s mood,but the final price may be reduced as much as 30 % to that first quoted. An important point to keep in mind is that Thais admire good manners and a sense of humour and tend to be put off a loss of temper. Providing you have the time, a good general rule is to make a survey of several shops selling the sort of items you want before coming to a final decision.
The Jewel Fest Club Jewellery and gemstones from Thailand are also a favourite item for many visitors to the kingdom. Their beauty, quality craftsmanship and reasonable price have earned Thai precious and semi-precious stones a worldwide reputation. Yet occasionally, there have been visitor who complained about the action of few unethical jewelers who persuadedthem to purchase jewellery at an unreasonable price. Through the cooperation of the Thai Gem and Jewellery Traders Association (TGJTA) and the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), the Jewel fest club has been established, bringing about 50 leading jewellery manufacturers and wholesalers. The club’s aim to offer quality products at reasonable prices with a money-back guarantee if buyers are not completely satisfied with their purchases. Retail outlets bear the emblem featured here for ready identification. When You purchase an item of jewellery from a store that is clearly identified as a member of the Jewel Fest Club, your purchase will be duly recorded, and a certificate detailing your purchase will be issued. Not only does this certificate of authenticity clearly state the nature and price of your purchase, it also guarantees your refund should you wish to return the purchase, cut by 10% if you return merchandise to the point of sale within 30 days, and by 20% after 30 days but within 45 days of purchase. Contact The Jewel Fest Club at Tel: 0 2630 1390-7, Fax:0 2630 1398-9 www.jewlfest.com.
Packing and Shipping Services Thanks to the ever-increasing number of tourists coming to Thailand, most shops are experienced at shipping abroad and will attend to all the documents such as in surance, customs and necessary permits. The Central Post Office also offers a parcel-wrapping service for those whowant to make small shipments, there are several Bangkok companies who specialise in such matters.
Vat Refund Visitors entering the Kingdom on tourist visas are entitled to refunds of the 7% value-added tax (VAT) paid on goods purchased at shops and department stores displaying “VAT Refund for Tourist” signs. The refund may be claimed if the claimed amounts in all P.P.10’have been totaled 5.000 bath or over. Tourist is eligible to receive P.P.10 form when the total purchase of 2,000 bath or over is made from the same store on the same date. Before checking in at the international airport (Bangkok, Ching Mai , Hat Yai , Phuket) , tourist must show your purchases, completed P.P.10 form and tax invoices to the Customs Officer for inspection. Certain luxury goods must be shown to an excise official. Refunds may be in bank draft form or credited to a credit card. For more information, please contact the VAT Refund for Tourists Office, please contact the VAT Refund for Tourists office, Tel: 0 2272 8195-8 or www.rd.go.th/vrt or E-mail:vrefund@rd.go.th
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Detail from:http://www.touristassistancecenter.go.th/web/eng/tips.php