PATAYA

Pattaya is the city which will take you beyond the imagination and you can enjoy a made for leisure holiday. A certain sense of abandon underlies all that you do in this city, be it splashing around in water on Songkran, shrieking as a ghoul tries to get you at the Haunted House, screaming with giggles as the fish attack you at a fish spa, or gorging on spicy Papaya Salads.


Sight Seeing

Pattaya is all about beaches, parks, temples, elephants and more. If the city gets too much for you, there are some lovely islands that are a short ferry ride away like Koh Larn, Koh Phai and Koh Sak. But not before you've enjoyed its beaches. Pattaya, Jomtien and Naklua are popular city beaches.

For the best of world architecture albeit on a miniature scale, Mini Siam it is. Apart from the famous buildings of Thailand, you will also see models of European structures. Exclaim over the bizarre, get spooked in the haunted house and be disoriented in the mirror maze. Strike a pose with the wax statues at Madame Tussaud’s Museum. Laser Trek and the Motion Master Moving Theatre will take you to another reality altogether. Outside, grab a drink at a cocktail bar set up in a van.

Parks frequently adorn the grounds around Buddhist temples in Pattaya like Wat Yanasangwararam which is on the outskirts of the city. Close to this temple is the Buddha Mountain (Khao Chee Chan). It is relatively new and was conceptualised to mark the King's 50th anniversary. The image of Buddha, over 400 ft tall, was carved on the face of the mountain in two days using laser technology followed by the more laborious process of filling it with gold. Lotus ponds at the base of the mountain sit at Buddha's feet.

Things to do

Do you like to keep the game on even on a holiday? Canter on a horse or play a tennis set at the Pattaya Sports Club or speed around the loop in go-karts at the Pattaya Karts Speedway. Play big and race around the tracks at the Bhira International Circuit. Put a bullet in your target at the Paintball Park. Hang suspended in the air after the 165 ft bungee jump. Shoot like you mean it at Tiffany's Shooting Range. Watch a Muay Thai boxing match or learn to pack a punch and witness the rigorous training of champs at Kombat Village.

You haven't really experienced Pattaya till you have seen the Tiffany's and Alcazar cabaret shows. The Tiffany's Cabaret Show was one of the first transvestite cabaret shows in South East Asia. The beautiful transvestites in glamorous costumes put on a show that you will never forget. Technology meets culture at the Alangkarn Show which blends acrobatics, laser shows, theatre, music and circus. It delivers a dramatic stage show.

Shopping

The relaxed atmosphere in Pattaya encourages shoppers to browse though its markets and shopping complexes and most don't leave empty handed. Soi Buakaow Market is as authentic an experience as you can have in Pattaya. Mostly locals visit this crowded market and the prices are reasonable. There are pretty artificial flowers. If you like it real, you can buy fresh flowers, plants and even an adorable puppy. Take a break at the food and cold drinks stalls. Made in Thailand Night Plaza is a day market where you can bargain.
For a more regular shopping experience, malls like Royal Garden Plaza, Tesco-Lotus, Tuk.com, Central Festival Centre and Mike's Shopping Mall are good. Gem's Gallery is huge and includes a toy train ride and a lesson in gems
The floating markets and night markets give shopping a whole new angle. The Pattaya Floating Market or Damnoem Saduak is the place to go for fruits, silks, handicrafts and food. The open air Thepprasit Night Market and the Naklua Sunday Market are packed with stalls selling knick-knacks.

BANKOK

Bangkok is, in many ways, more than just any other Asian city; it is an exotic visual experience that dares to defy time and traditions. With stumbling religious architecture, myths, futuristic business towers, pulsating streets and after-dark pleasures, this cosmopolitan city is a delight to the senses.Enjoy a cruise along the historical Chao Phraya River that was once used for trade, through the heart of Bangkok. Drift past the Taling Chan Floating Market and stop awhile at a floating restaurant.

Sight Seeing
From famous Buddhist temples, to traditional museums, snazzy Thai massage parlours and stylish pubs, the city is like a cornucopia of treasures. Nothing can keep you better rooted to your holiday than a cultural tour at the start of your trip. The San Phra Phrom or the Erawan Shrine, which is popularly known as 'the spirit house', houses the statue of Phra Phrom who is believed to be the Thai representation of Brahma, the creator according to Hindu Mythology. The Shri Mariamman Temple, which was constructed by the first Tamil immigrants, houses both the Hindu goddess and a few images of Buddha.

The Grand Palace that adjoins the Wat Phra Kaew, is a monument that captures Thailand's regal splendour. This former palace, which is now used only for ceremonial purposes, is open for viewing to the public.

Things to do
Bangkok's traditional charm is so delightful; it makes for a great start to your holiday. The Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha), the Wat Arun (Temple of the Dawn), the Wat Phra Kaeo (Temple of the Emerald Buddha) and the Grand Palace are exceptional sights during the day. The traditionally themed state-of-the-art theatre at Siam Niramit provides for an exotic visual experience with many cultural shows. If you want to relive a glamorous fantasy, Bangkok's famous ladyboy (transvestite) cabaret shows are not to be missed.

Lose yourself in the chaos of the streets while in the city. Gorge on sizzling local delicacies straight off the grill or dare to try curious snacks that you will never find anywhere else in the world like Snake Tonic, Grilled Worms, Fried Locusts. Every vendor will surprise you! Float down the Chao Phraya River and take in the beauty of the city at night. Or dine alfresco on the rooftop of a skyscraper. Rejuvenate your senses with an authentic Thai massage in the later hours or get wild indulging in the sinful flavours of Patpong and Khao San Road.

Shopping
Bangkok ,the best shopping destinations in the world. From buzzing street markets to glitzy malls, it is simply too good to be true when it comes to retail self-indulgence. As in all Asian cities, shopping in Bangkok is best done area-wise otherwise it is only too easy to get lost in the crowd. The Chatuchak Market is the best option for bargain shoppers. There is an innumerable variety of beads, clothing, shoes, accessories and more here. Haggling for a good price is common, and the atmosphere is energized, excited and crowded no matter when you visit. Khao San Road is the best place for backpackers to go after-dark shopping. Pratunam is the haunt for those into fashion and accessories.

The Pantip Plaza has electronic goods at every corner, and is 'the best place for techno geeks'. Classy shopping malls like Central World and Siam Paragon have international stores and modern movie theatres.

PHUKET

Famously called 'Pearl of the South', Phuket is a heavenly concoction of many wonders; ancient relics left behind by foreign invaders, majestic mountains, gorgeous beaches, noisy markets and a fantastic night life. It is Thailand's most dynamic tourist destination for obvious reasons. Clinging to the Andaman Sea on the western shore of the country, Phuket offers a wide range of experiences to travellers, making it difficult to pick and choose. From the towering magnificence of Phuket's Big Buddha that is set atop the Nakkerd Hills, to the splendours of the wacky Fantasea shows, Phuket is an island of fun and frolic.

Sight Seeing

Phuket is an amazing summer retreat. Once a major trade route between China and India, it is both the cultural and tourism nerve centre of Thailand. Lined with numerous little islands, Phuket has exciting prospects for beach enthusiasts. The island is home to several quaint beaches, of which Banana beach or Coral Island is the most reputed. It emits a vibe of mystery with its quietude and serenity as it sits hidden amidst the Bang Thao and Nai Ton coastlines. The coast is also a great place to watch rainforest hornbills.



Things to do

Phuket breathes fun and sunshine all year through. With a tolerant attitude towards many native customs and lifestyles, it offers a lot more than beaches and water sports. The island proudly flaunts the sensational spirit of its famous ethnic cabaret dances on one side and the toughness of Muay Thai (traditional martial arts) on the other. Succumb to it all. A customary herbal Thai massage and spa treatment at Patong beach is a great way to relax your senses.
Explore Phuket's rainforests in the northern part of island through the unspoiled expanse of the Khao Lok and Khao Sak National Parks. Tourists can opt for an elephant safari or hike through the wilderness. The elephant is believed to be the King of the Jungle in Thai folklore and is considered lucky, so go on a safari if you have the chance to! Nakkerd Hills can be reached from Chalong Bay or Kata Bay, both known for extreme boating activities.

Shopping

Shopping in Phuket is a pleasure beyond measure. The island has numerous bazaars that cater to all kinds of tastes like the open air village market, night market, food market and other glitzy shopping malls. Refined pearls, antiques, pewter goods, jewellery, Nielloware (unique Thai handicrafts) and clothes with Thai designs are popular buys. Thai antiques like wooden carvings, statues and fabrics are irresistible buys. Phuket is known worldwide for its esteemed antique shops, each focusing on a specific culture. Visit the Chans Antique House and the Fine Orient for a taste of Chinese culture and Buddhism depicted in finely carved furniture and images..