31.5.08

How to get there Chiangrai

How to get there Chiangrai
By Air
Thai Airways has daily flights connecting Bangkok with Chiang Rai. For more information, contact their Bangkok office at tel. 0 2280 0060, 0 2628 2000, the Chiang Rai Office tel. 0 5371 1179, 0 5371 5207, or view their website at www.thaiairways.com
One-Two-Go offers daily flights from Bangkok to Chiang Rai. Call 1126 or book online at http://www.fly12go.com
SGA offers flights to Chiang Rai. Call 0 2664 6099 or visit: www.sga.co.th By Bus
The coach ride from Bangkok to Chiang Rai is probably best made overnight since passengers can avail themselves of sleep prior to an early morning arrival. There are both air-conditioned and non-air-conditioned bus services from Bangkok's Northern Bus Terminal (Mochit 2 Bus Terminal) on Kamphaengphet 2 Road. The journey may take approximately 9-11 hours.
By Car
Take Highway No. 1 (Phahonyothin Road), turn to route No. 32 passing Ayutthaya, Angthong and Singburi Provinces and change to route No. 11 passing Phitsanulok, Uttaradit and Phrae Provinces then turn left to Highway No. 103, drive through to Ngao District and turn right onto Highway No. 1 which takes you to Phayao and Chiang Rai Provinces. The total distance is 785 km. By Rail
There is no direct train to Chiang Rai. You have to take a train to Lampang (9 hrs. from Bangkok) or Chiang Mai (11 hrs.) and then take a bus to Chiang Rai. (2 hrs. from Lampang and 1.30 hrs. from Chiang Mai) For more details, call the State Railway of Thailand, 1690 (hotline), or 0 2223 7010 or 0 2223 7020. By Boat
The capital may also be reached from Tha Thon in Chiang Mai province by a scenic 4-6 hour (depending on climatic conditions, such as rain, and other factors such as high waters and fast currents) long-tail boat ride along the Mae Kok River.
Chiang Mai - Chiang Rai By Bus
Chiang Rai is 182 kilometers north of Chiang Mai. Air conditioned buses leave 12 times daily from Chiang Mai Arcade Bus Terminal to Chiang Rai. Some buses continue to Mae Sai and Chiang Saen. By Air
Airlines have numerous daily flights servicing the Bangkok-Chiang Mai route and the Chiang Mai-Chiang Rai route. www.ที่พักหลักร้อย.com

General in formation Chiangrai. visit เชียงราย

General in formation Chiangrai
For other brochures please click here
Chiang Rai, the northernmost province of Thailand is about 785 kilometers north of Bangkok. Situated on the Kok River basin, Chiang Rai covers an area of approximately 11,678 square meters with an average elevation of 580 meters above sea level. The province, which is located within the renowned Golden Triangle area where Myanmar, Laos and Thailand converge, is also known as the gateway to Myanmar, Laos and Southern China.
Chiang Rai, which was founded in 1262 by King Meng Rai,was the first capital of the Lanna Thai Kingdom (Kingdom of a million rice fields), which was later conquered by Burma. It was not until 1786 that Chiang Rai became a Thai territory and was proclaimed a province during the reign of King Rama VI in 1910.
Today, Chiang Rai is a travelers paradise endowed with abundant natural tourist attractions and antiquities; the province itself is evidence of past civilization. Attractions range from magnificent mountain scenery, ruins of ancient settlements, historic sites, Buddhist shrines and ethnic villages as the province is also home to several hill tribes who maintain fascinating lifestyles. For those interested in the natural side of Chiang Rai, jungle trekking is recommended along various trails.
Chiang Rai which tends to be a little more 'laid back' now competes with Chiang Mai as a tourist attraction and is fast becoming a popular escape for tourists wanting to get away from the troubles they left behind. www.ที่พักหลักร้อย.com

6.4.08

Thailand Travel

AYUTTHAYA :
The ancient city Ayutthaya, or Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, was the capital of Siam for 417 years, and remains one of Thailand's majior tourist attractions. Founded by 'King U-Thong or Ramathibodi I' in 1350, the city possesses many ancient ruins and art which were left behind when the Thais were forced southwards after being sacked by the Burmese in 1767. CHA-AM : This beautiful beach, twinned with Hua Hin of Phrachuap Khiri Khan, is located 40 kms. south of the town or 20 kms. north of Hua Hin. Cha-Am was originally a small fishing village. After a Royal Palace was built near Hua Hin in the reign of King Rama VI, the land was occupied by the Royal Family and the elite. Today, it is very popular among Thais who love superb seafood and comfortable hotel or bungalow accommodation.
CHIANG MAI :
Chiang Mai is blessed with stunning natural beauty and a unique indigenous cultural identity. Founded in 1296 by King Mengrai the Great, it was the capital of the Lanna Thai Kingdom by merging the various city- states in the region, Chiang Mai is today the economic, communications, cultural and tourism centre of Northern Thailand. This pre- eminent regional status has been obtained without losing the essence of its natural environment and culture. The terrain consists mainly of mountainous jungles, parts of which are within fertile and verdant national parks full of all kinds of flora and fauna. Additionally, many sites and locations still exist where tourists can still witness the lifestyle and traditions of the ancient hill tribe people. Chiang Mai is also Thailand's main centre for quality handicrafts. Artisans hone their art in the outlying villages where authentic cottage industries thrive. In particular, along the Bo Sang-San Kamphaeng Road, such handicraft-producing factories give visitors a glimpse of the traditional methods still in use today.
CHIANG RAI :
Chiang Rai is situated in the Kok River basin 416 m above sea level in the northernmost province of Thailand about 785 kilometres from Bangkok. With an area of some 11,678 sq km, the mostly mountainous expanse touches the Mekong River to the north, and borders both Myanmar and Laos. The province is rich in tourism resources, in terms of natural attractions and antiquities, which serve as reminders of an ancient civilisation. It is also home to several hilltribes who lead simple, albeit fascinating, ways of life.
HAT YAI :
Situated 1289 km. southwest of Bangkok, Hat Yai is Thailand's most popular destination for travellers because of its strategic location as the southern geteway to Thailand. The city finds fame as a focal point for vigorous cross-border trading, enjoying the support form Thai folk from all over the country who clamour for Malaysian produce, such as tropical fruit ; pears, apples, Muscat grapes, and products including assorted Western biscuits and chocolates, cosmetics and many other items. Nevertheless, Hat Yai owes much of its charm and attraction to its vibrant, vivacious nightlife which revolves around the nightclubs, bars, pubs, discotheques, karaoke lounges, shopping malls and cinemas.
HUA-HIN :
This beach city located 200 km. south of Bangkok, became popular as a rainy season retreat in the 1920s with the construction of the railway line form Bangkok. Also during this time, King Rama VII selected a special piece of beachfront property to build the Klai Kangwon Palace, or literally 'Haven Far From Worries'. The fact that this palace remains in frequent use by the Royal Family today lends this town an atmosphere quite different from other beach areas in Thailand.
KANCHANABURI :
The mountainous province of Kanchanaburi, Thailand's third largest, covers some 19,473 sq km, and borders Myanmar (Burma) to the west of Bangkok. The compact provincial capital, some 130 km or a comfortable two-hour drive from Bangkok, is both the site of the world-famous 'Bridge Over The Rive Kwai', immortalised in books and movies, as well as the gateway to a region of rugged natural beauty. The countryside beyond the provincial capital is characterised by mountains and fertile river valleys where a labyrinth of dammed reservoirs province's natural beauty.
KHAO YAI :
Khao Yai National Park is Thailand's second largest, covering 2,168 sq km, encompassing 11 districts and 4 provinces; Sara Buri, Nakhon Ratchasima, Prachin Buri, and Nakhon Nayok. It was thailand's first National Park, and was established on September 18, 1962. The park encompasses a wide variety of habitats, including evergreen forests and grasslands. There are also several mountains as tall as a 1,000 m including Khao Khieo. It is host to almost 2,500 plant species, 67 different kinds of mammals and over 300 species of birds. The entire area is criss-crossed by hiking trails, ranging in length from one and a half to eight km In addition, there are many waterfalls, the tallest and most spectacular of which is Haew Narok at 80 m Another waterfall, Haeo Suwat, is located along the upper reaches of the Lam Takhong River.
KHON KAEN :
Khon Kaen boasts a lengthy history and claims to be the birthplace of so many thriving civilisations and cultures. This is an area where the first dinosaur fossils were found in Thailand. Once the quiet capital ofone of the poorest provinces in the Northeast, it has undergone dramatic changes and is now a prosperous, bustling town. Situated right in the heart of the region, Khon Kaen is the focal point of many regional development projects, including the site of the region's largest public universty.
KOH CHANG :
This island prradise is located in Trat province near the border of Cambodia, and lies approximately 315 km. from Bangkok . This wonderful island is thankfully not as exploited as some of Thailand's other islands and remains unpolluted, with white sandy beaches. King Rama V, King Rama VI and King Rama VII usde to holiday on the island and even the present ruler, Kiung Bhumibhol Adulyadej, plans occasional visits. Besides a relaxed beach vacation Koh Chang has various leisure offers for active holidaymakers e.g. snorkelliing, diving or mountain-biking. Many resorts rent out kayaks and arrange jungle treks as well as all day boat tours to the surrounding islands. Islands such as Koh Nham, Koh Sai Kao, Koh Laoya, Koh Vai, Koh Kam, Koh Mak and Koh Kradard also offer tranquillty and natural-beauty. Coral reefs offer diving and snorking on Koh Vai, Koh Kra and the Rang group of islands.
KOH SAMUI :
Thailand's 3rd largest island is a palm-fringed paradise with coastal roads encircling the whole island. Aside from the lovely beaches and coral beds, it is plentiful in coconut plantations and forested hills. The more popular beaches are on the northern and eastern coasts, namely Chaweng Beach, known for its party scene and a combination of luxury accommodations and Lamai Beach. Many international diving schools have been established on nearby Koh Tao (Turtle Island) because of its pristine beaches and abundant coralreefs which contribute to its reputation as the best scuba diving spot in the Gulf of Thailand.
KRABI :
One of the most attractive destinations in Thailand covers an area of 4,709 sq km and is located 814 km south of Bangkok. Krabi's major attractions are located largely along its extensive coastline with several well-known beaches and bays, and numerous offshore tropical islands. Krabi's mountainous physical landscape is broken only by appearances of highlands and plains on the mainland. Natural forest cover is chiefly Mangrove and Cassia trees. The Krabi River flows 5 km through the town and falls into the Andaman Sea at Tambon Pak Nam. http://astore.amazon.com/thailandhot0d-20

23.1.08

Bussiness Information :
THAILAND,with a population of 64 million puls, and covering a land area of 513,115 sq km (about the same size as France) receives more than 12 million tourists, including business tourists and visitors to MICE (metings, incentives, conventions, exhibitions) events per year. Foreign investment continues to increase, and in 2006 Thailand's GDP grew by nearly six percent. Time difference is GMT + 7 hours. Head of Bhuimibol Adulyadej, rama IX
GENERAL INFORMATION :
CURRENCY - Thai Baht, with an approximate exchange rate of Bt34 to the US$ (October 2007) comes in denominations of 1,000(grey); 500(purple); 100(red); 50(blue); 20(green); 10(brown). Coins are minted in values of 10; 5; 1; 50 and 25 satang.
TELEPHONES - International Direct Dialling (IDD) is available in most areas. There are two telecom companies, the TOT (Telephone Organisation of Thailand), and the CAT (Communications Authority of Thailand). Independent service providers for mobile telephones include AIS,DTAC; Hutch-True;
MEDIA - There are currently three English language daillies in Thailand, The Banfkok Post, The Nation, and Business Day. Several radio stations broadcast in English.
National TV Channels 3,5,7,9,11, plus independent tiTV, and cable operator UBC for programmes in English.
POSTAL SERVICES - The Head Post Office (on Charoen Krung road, near the Oriental and Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotels) is open from 08.00a.m. to 12.00 p.m. on Saturdays.
GOVERNMENT STORES - Open from 8 a.m.- noon and again from 1-4:30 p.m.,Monday to Friday.
DEPARTMENT STORES - Are found in all urban areas, and are open seven days a week from 10.00 to 21.00. Thai and international branded names.
USEFUL TELEPHONE NUMBERS :
Directory Enquiries - 1133
Long Distance Service - 100
IDD...001+ Country Code+Area Code+
Plus Phone Number Tourist Police - 195, 1699 (Bangkok)
Bangkok International Airport (Don Muang) Tel: [02]535-111
Bangkok International Airport (Suvarnabhumi) Tel: [02]132-1888
BUSINESS/INVESTOR INFORMATION :
BANKS - There are 17 Thai banks with branches throughout the country. They are open from 8:30 a.m. in the morning to 4:30 p.m. in the afternoon. (Monday - friday)
CREDIT CARDS - All recognised major credit cards are generally accepted in outlets and hotels all over the country.
American Express - 273 0022, 273 0044
Diner's Club - 238 3660
Mastercard - 001 8001 18 870663
Visa - 273 7448, 273 7449
VISA REQUIREMENTS ;
* Transit visa - single entry Bt. 800 - 30 days
* Tourist visa - single entry Bt. 1,000 - 30-60 days
* Non immigrant visa - single entry Bt. 2,000 - 90 days
* Non immigrant visa - multiple entry for use with in one year Bt. 5,000
* Diplomatic visa and Official visa - 90 days
* Courtesy visa - 90 days
* Visa on Arrival - 15 days
* Visa Exemption
- Diplomatic and Official passport -30-90 days
- Ordinary passport -30-90 days
- APEC business travel card -90 days
- Aliens entering for a temporary stay on confor ence purpose or international tournament hosted by Thai government -30 days
- Application for visa extension Bt. 1,900
- Application for a single Re entry Permit Bt. 1,000
- Application for a multiple Re entry Permit Bt. 3,800
- Application for a Residence Permit Bt. 7,600
BOARD OF INVESTMENT :
Through the Broard of Investment, the government offers a range of tex incentives, support services and import duty concessions to an extensive list of businesses that are regarded as priority or promoted industries. The BOI, as an investment promotion agency, remains committed to provide not only up-to-date information on various investment opportunities available throughout Thailand, but also to provide attractive incentives, services, and benefits to both existing and potential investors. www.boi.go.th/english Tel:(66 2) 537 8111-55
DEPT. OF EXPORT PROMOTION :
The Department of export Promotion (DEP) provides invaluable support and a host of other important services to international and local businessmen. The DEP is entrusted with the following duties and responsibilities: To promote and expand the market for Thai exports in goods and services by penetrating new markets and to preserve existing ones; to develop and perform activities that promote trade and increase the competitiveness of the export sector, to build a positive image of Thai goods and services, and thereby increase the market's confidence in Thai products, in terms of quality.
The DEP provides Thai manufacturers and exporters, as well as foreign importers, with trade information services.
The DEP also operates a permanent exhibition centre, the Trade Mart, on Ratchadaphisex Road. www. thaitrade.com Tel: (66 2) 5115066
INDUSTRIAL ESTATES AUTHORITY :
The IEAT is the government mechanism for national development, attracting investment and generating employment. At present it accommodates about 2,494 factories, efficiently organized in a systematic, orderly fashion. This represents an investment of 1.2 trillion baht (roughly 27 billion US dollars), and employment of 376,751 people. The IEAT has developed mechanisms for spreading growth and economic progress throughout the country. There are 30 industrial estates in 13 provinces in all regions of Thailand, covering three districts, supported by the Thailand Board of Investment (BOI). www. ieat.go.th Tel: (66 2) 365 9699
STOCK EXCHANGE OF THAILAND (SET) :
The SET is designed to be a liquid secondary market for securities to raise funds and win confidence from all stakeholders.
www.set .or.th/en Tel: 02 229 2000
TAXATION :
Corporate Income Tax Juristic companies and partnerships organised under Thai law are subject to income tax on income earned from sources within and outside of Thailand. The definition of juristic companies and partnerships for income tax purposes are broader than those under the Civil and Commercial Code. Juristic companies and partnerships for income tax purposes include, but are not limited to:
- private and public limited companies
- registered ordinary and limited partnerships
- joint ventures
- foundations and associations.
A branch of a foreign corporation is taxed only on income derived form sources within Thailand. Tax is imposed on the net profits of juristic companies and partnerships, ascertained in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, subject to conditions imposed by the Revenue Code of Thailand.
VALUE ADDED TAX (VAT) :
VAT 7 percent on the value of goods sold and services rendered at every level, including on importation. Certain categories of goods and services (eg exports) are to zero percent. In addition, other categories of goods and services (eg sales of agricultural products) are exempt from VAT.
WORK PERMIT :
A foreign citizen is legally able to work in Thailand if he or she has a proper passport visa, a valid work permit, and the individual performs no work which violates the Alien Employment Act BE 2521 (AD 1978). Established governmental procedures exist which allow a non-Thai national or alien to obtain all of the requisite approvals for legally performing work in Thailand. Before applying the person must hold a non- immigrant B class visa.
The Department considers six factors, which it believes constitute an economic benefit to the country. These areas are the promotion of foreign currency importation, exportation of goods, skilled personnal, employment of local labor, new technology, and tourism. This list is not conclusive, and an applicant can attempt to demonstrate that his or her employment will benefit the Kingdom in other ways.