Pai Info please

Hi I was wondering if someone could please give me some advise about Pai.

I am back packing through Asia for two months and have just heard a bit about this place.

Just wondering how long do you think I would need to stay here? and what things are there to do here?

I will be traveling from Chang Mai prob by bus? I believe it takes approx 2 hours?? How much does the trip normally cost?

and how is the night life here?

Thanks in advance for your help :o)

Pai Info please

The area is quite scenic and the bus trip is something that you WILL remember. The trip takes 2-3 hrs and the bus stops half way for a comfort stop.

Very laid back town, with elephant camps, river rafting, jungle treks etc. Cost of transport was quite cheap and booked through our Guesthouse although you could go straight to the bus station.

We have some pics, maps and stories of our Pai trip here... www.bobandjanette.com which may help.

Happy %26amp; safe travels

Bob

Pai Info please

wow thanks for the info I was also just wondering if i could book accommodation as I arrived instead of in advance? I will be traveling around June. Looking maybe at Baan Pai

We nearly always book our accommodation once we have arrived in a location and inspected a room. Pai is no exception. Plenty of accommodation to suit all price ranges.

pai is a lovely little place,and we really enjoyed our stay there ,the bus will be very cheap but not great for those with travel sickness.we flew on a 12 seater from chaing mai ,for the experience...nok air.

June is low season in Pai so no need to book, this gives you the chance to check out the accomodations before you commit yourself, the longer you stay the bigger discount, discounted bookings must be paid for in advance so I would advise you to stay the first night to see if you like it, if you do have that first night included. 20-25% discount for a one week stay would be fair, don%26#39;t expect any more this would be in bad taste. Always barter with a smile and respect this will get you a long way, if your offer is refused dont be offended, remember these guest houses work on very small profit margins, simply leave with a smile making a complementary observation about the guesthouse, or up your offer.

Night life is great plenty of live music bars and our very own night club Be Bop.

You wont be disappointed with Pai, however many days you have allocated for your stay I would highly recomend that you at least double this.

Minibus booked by your guest house should be no more than 200B.

To get to Chiang Mai bus station costs 80B by Tuk Tuk

From here

Local bus small seats slow uncomfortable takes 3 1/2-4 1/2 hours about 70B

Modern local bus comfortable air con large scenic windows takes 3-4 hours 150B (best option for those prone to travel sickness)

Mini bus 150B takes 2 1/2-3 hours

Flying from Chiang Mai Airport Nok Air 1,850B

Prices correct June 2009

Enjoy

I will be traveling to Pai in late November. Will it be difficult to find accommodation at this time? I have heard this place is great from a few friends and I really want to go!

Thanks!

I will be traveling to Pai in late November. Will it be difficult to find accommodation at this time? I have heard this place is great from a few friends and I really want to go!

Thanks!

To pre-book or not to pre-book?

My boyfriend and I are planning a 3 week trip over xmas and new year. We will be arriving and leaving from bangkok and also travelling to krabi and khoasok. I know this is peak season (eeek!) so I%26#39;d like to know if it%26#39;s advisable to prebook all our accomodation and tours or if we%26#39;ll be able to be more flexible and book some while we%26#39;re there.

Has anyone booked through limestone lake forest tours?

To pre-book or not to pre-book?

Prebook accommodation or you may end up sleeping on the beach !!

As for tours, you should be able to book most of those after arrival, but tour firms will be quite busy too.

blue hair

Shots for Thailand

Well, I%26#39;ll be there for a month

I%26#39;ll be visiting Bangkok, Ayuttaya, Angthong, Chiang Mai etc.

Perhaps a visit to Laos, too

So, what shots would you recommend, and would malaria pills be recommended?

Last time I was there, got all the shots/malaria precautions..but I was there for a longer period of time

Cheers

Timmy

Shots for Thailand

I think the prerequisite would be to have the standard course of Hep A/B injections Timmy.There are 2 ways you can go about this...the rushed course(which you can have 3 injections over 3 weeks)or the more conventional medical multi Twinex course of 1 injection ,another 4 weeks later and a last one 6 months after that..(lasts 8 years).Better immunity is given to the body this way and would definitely suggest you have this one,as you never know where or how you can be infected nowadays!

Shots for Thailand

Make sure your tetanus booster is current.

Because of the ease of transmission, Hep A vaccine might top the list.

Hep B if you plan to get ';friendly'; and it will protect you in a medical emergency.

Most other precautions would depend on your personal health history.

Hi,

Some good suggestions so far.. I would add that you should have this conversation with either your personal physician/GP or a travel medicine specialist who will have access to your personal health records.. While there are some good things to be ';current'; on such as tetanus-- vaccines and such should be determined jointly between you and your health care provider as each persons carries a different risk profile and health history..

Don%26#39;t wait too long to do to inquire as some vaccines require multiple visits (injections) spread over a defined period of time and/or only become fully effective after a specific number of days has passed since its administration.

Travel Safe,

Thanks guys

I%26#39;m leaving on Monday morning(will be there for a month)

And, I haven%26#39;t got any shots done, yet..but will go tomorrow

However, pretty sure my Hep A/B is alright

So, is there a Hep A/B booster shot?

Cheers

Timmy

Depends when you had your last one,as you may not need one.As GOPBI and others have stated check with your doctor and Hep A/B shot needs 3 week s generally to be effective ...you may have left your run a bit late if leaving on Monday!

HepA/HepB - is a series of 3 shots that pretty much covers you for life. (TWINREX)

first shot - 0 day

second shot - 30 day

third shot - 6months

Take first shot - you%26#39;ll have 1/3 of the immunity which is better than none.

Also suggest a tetanus booster which is always good if u havent had one recently.

Got my tetanus, measles, and Typhoid

Plus, he gave me a prescription for anti-malaria pills(doxycycline), and something for travellers diarrhea

Found out that I didnt need Hep A/B..already had them done

So yeah, got all the bases covered

Cheers

Timmy

Doi Inthanon National Park

Has anyone a good suggestion for a day trip out there on a Sunday in May please? Is it worth the trip? I hear there%26#39;s a big waterfall, amongst other things. Thanks...

Doi Inthanon National Park

My wife and I go to Doi Inthanon often. When it gets too hot to stay in Chiang Mai city, no worries, just go to Doi Inthanon National Park a short 90 kilometers away. In May it is very hot. Take a jacket, believe it or not, you will need it.

See a video here.

tripadvisor.com/ProfileGallery-i16778411.html

To learn more go here.

http://www.squidoo.com/Doi_Inthanon_Thailand

Enjoy,

Randy and Ning

Doi Inthanon National Park

I would say Doi Inthanon is worth the visit, its a nice day drip out of the city. In just under an hour you can be out of the city and feel like your%26#39;re away from the hustle and bustle.

Yes lots of waterfalls along the way, the two most impressive probably being Wachiratharn waterfall and Mae Ya waterfall.

The locals like to go to Mae Ya waterfall which is slightly off the road to Doi Inthanon, as you can play in the water and have a Thai style picnic.

The last post is true can get pretty chilly as you%26#39;ll be approx 2,500m above sea level so bring a light jacket/long sleeves.

We did a fantastic day trip there earlier this month with Jimmy from Sergeant Kai%26#39;s tour company.

The day included elephant ride, lunch, 2 hour easy trek past waterfalls to some hill tribes and then a visit to the big waterfalls.

The whole day was only 1800 baht for 8 of us in a minivan including lunch and cold bottled water during the day.

Jimmy was sensational as a guide, he was especially good at entertaining our kids during the trip.

If you have the time hike the Gew Mae Pan trail. This is a nice 2 to 3 hour hike. The trail is closed from June to October so it can grow back. Here is the video.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vY3rxs8AmDQ

Enjoy,

Randy and Ning

Thanks to everyone for all this helpful advice. I%26#39;ll certainly give it a try, and bring a pullover as well! that last piece of information is not what you expect, and vert hepful as a result! Thanks...

Could someone name me a hotel in Inthanon National Park please? TA only lists 2 resorts. I found Navasoung but it seems to be up near Mae Hong Son Loop.

Any price is fine. I only need the names %26amp; will do my own search.

Thank you.

any Bungalows in patong ?

i am traveling in Feb, and would like to stay at a romantic bungalow surrounded by greenery and palm trees and luxury service to offer only in patong,,,,any suggestions? rates no matter

any Bungalows in patong ?

Hi sam,

Try le jardin bungalows. www.lejardin-phuket.net.

Doi Inthanon - clueless, need help

Hi fellow Tripadvisors,

Hope you could help me with some information on Doi Inthanon. I%26#39;ve googled for the past hour but can%26#39;t find satisfactory information.

Very simple questions really:

- How safe is it to drive up there? When it%26#39;s rainy?(will be a rental car anyway so let%26#39;s pray brakes are included)

- What should I be wearing up there in August? Jacket? Raincoat? Emperor%26#39;s new clothes? ;)

I%26#39;ve never been up somewhere this high so that will explain the cluelessness.

Thanks in advance!

Doi Inthanon - clueless, need help

It is safe to drive, just take your time and enjoy the ride. The only drawback is you as the driver have to watch the road not the scenery.

And remember the rule of descending off a mountain, always come down in the same gear or one gear lower than what you came up in. All too often folks upshift during the descent and ride the brakes, bad idea, hot brakes fail. Use a lower gear on your transmission to keep your speed down.

Definitely take a raincoat, its rainy season and storms brew in the mountains.

Doi Inthanon - clueless, need help

Thanks for the quick reply! Agreed re engine braking, definitely. Would be plain silly (and scary) to be descending a steep hill using a high gear.

Will take a raincoat along. And hopefully watch the road instead of the scenery. ;)

I took a scooter out of chang mai,went all the way up until the last 1/2 mile,then had to push it up to the top,less oxygen for the motor.Glad i went very beautiful,the river , the falls.great time

Here is a good article about Doi Inthanon I found with detailed description for driving in the park.

blogyoursite.com/2009/…

Yes it will rain almost all day and night. The summit will be in or above the clouds most of the time in August.

Have fun,

Randy and Ning

make sure you have enough petrol,not much in the way of petrol,maybe 1 lil shop.definately bring jacket,I was there in March.

Chris,

We visited a couple of years back in the month of September. At that time of year it was 14 degrees at the very top.

Around the waterfall areas the steps get very slippery %26amp; muddy.

I hope the waterfalls are raging for you as they were when we visited it was spectactular.

Definately have the raincoat %26amp; don%26#39;t forget the camera. There is a little kiosk at one of the waterfalls selling chicken drinks etc.

Have fun.. CJ

Really appreciate all your replies. Helps a lot in terms of planning.

Checklist:

- full tank of petrol

- raincoat

- jacket in case

- camera

- replacement camera in case the first gets damaged in the rain :)

Dear Chris,

I have some other tips for you. If you are at the highest point of Doi Inthanon, opposite the food booth (on the other side of the road) there is a nice natural walk.

An why not overnight at Mae Sariang? The route 108 -Hod to Mae Sariang (to Doi Inthanon) is a very nice route and Mae Sariang is a nice little place to stay for one night. I enjoyed it last year when I visited Doi Inthanon in November.

Have a safe drive.

Tony

Could someone name me a hotel in Inthanon National Park please? TA only lists 2 resorts. I found Navasoung but it seems to be up near Mae Hong Son Loop.

Any price is fine. I only need the names %26amp; will do my own search.

Thank you.

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marina phuket resort

we are interested in staying at MPR in Feb 2010. could anyone recommend either the jungle or seaview rooms..which is the nicer..is it a good seaview and worth the extra cost? which rooms are closer to the pool/reception area as I understand the resort spreads uphill. also a few reports have suggested that karon beach is dirty..is this true and if so is it far to walk to kata beach. have also heard that there are not too many shops/restaurants near MPR..sorry about all the questions but this is our first trip to Thailand. all help would be appreciated...thankx.

marina phuket resort

Haven%26#39;t stayed but have walked past and it looked lovely from the outside. Don%26#39;t know what the seaview there is like. Personally, when I%26#39;m costing a place, (for exactly the same room type) I reckon a seaview is worth $20-$40 extra, max. Often you get a room upgrade along with the view, i.e. it will be deluxe instead of superior. This is usually worth the extra.

Karon beach is not dirty, but at the Marina end there is a huge stormwater drain and culvert onto the beach. It%26#39;s not in front of your hotel, and you only have to walk 30 metres and you wont notice it.

Like any of the major beaches along there, you get rubbish washed up on the shore, but it%26#39;s not like a tip or anything.

marina phuket resort

Hi favnet

We are leaving on Friday for a week at MPR. I emailed them a while ago about the difference between jungle %26amp; seaview and this was there response:

';Q: 3.) I am unable to decide between jungle and ocean rooms. The website mentions privacy in the jungle rooms, are the ocean rooms private also? Is there any ocean view from the jungle rooms balcony?

A: You would feel private in both room categories. The Jungle View rooms are newer located in the jungle while the Ocean View rooms are larger, elegant in Thai style and well maintained yearly. All of these rooms have a private balcony, air-conditioning, hot and cold water, bath and shower, a digital safe deposit box, daily complimentary coffee and tea, a refrigerator, an LCD TV, a top-of-the-line Mini-Computer, world radio, free 24-hour Internet, and in-room facilities for burning CD/DVD.

A Jungle View room with ocean view is unavailable.';

From looking at many photos in the reviews it looks like the seaview is slightly obscured by jungle, but apparently you can still see and hear the sea, which is important to me.

I have seen the resort on a previous visit and the grounds were spectacular. There were heaps of shops and restaurants etc. right out the front.

I was trying to attach the Mapjack link, but it isn%26#39;t working for me - hopefully someone else can post it.

Deb

I have stayed at the Marina Phuket in an ocean view room and the view is partially obstructed by foliage, we didn%26#39;t see inside the jungle rooms, but I think some might be closer to reception, pool and Sala Thai restaurant and others less so.

You don%26#39;t notice the storm water drain when staying there, although it%26#39;s a steep walk up/down the stairs to get to the beach, walk a very short distance to the right and you are in front of the Karon Beach hotel frontage. The beach is not dirty, just has a bit of an undertow at the end there.

As for shopping/restaurants, not sure where you read there are not many as there are quite a few across the road and walk either left or right and you will find plenty within 5-10minutes walk. There are markets at the north end of Karon and the south end of Kata, both easily accessed via a 20baht/person songteow (open air bus) ride if you can%26#39;t be bothered walking.

Have a look at our photos at the link below, if staying there again, I would possibly consider the jungle room (not the standard room), if it was not too far to walk from reception.

Lee

…google.com/leebee88/MarinaPhuketResort#

Try this link for map jack and choose Karon beach at the side. Not sure if Marina Phuket web cam is working but you can try accessing that via their web site.

Lee

http://www.mapjack.com/?nCqwTmWsWcXD

http://www.marinaphuket.com/home.html

Didn%26#39;t know map jack existed, thankyou for sending the link..has made everything much clearer now. All the info you gave me is really appreciated.

Kata Beach is less than a 5 minute walk from the Marina Resort.

If you have time when you return I would love to hear which room you decided on and what your thoughts are...have a great trip.

Hi djhl, how was your holiday in Phuket? Just wondering if you decided to stay at Marina Phuket Resort...if so which room did you stay in and what are your overall thoughts on the resort and area? I will be booking soon and would love to have your input.....regards favnet

Hi favnet

Yes, we just got back from 6 nights at Marina and I absolutely loved it. The only fault I could find was that it was very hot on the balcony and it would have been good if they had a fan out there, other than that everything was perfect.

I just noticed a review saying the staff were not friendly. I find that amazing, as they were always smiling, remembered our names and could not do enough for us.

The rooms were beautiful, exactly as they are shown on their website. We had an ocean view room, D206, which had a very good view of the sea. There were a few leaves and branches, but it didn%26#39;t disrupt the view at all.

The pool was great, I could see it might be a bit small in high season, but in low season it was plenty big enough.

I loved the breakfasts at Marina. There is probably not as much choice as at some larger hotels, but that was a good thing - I didn%26#39;t eat as much! When you sit down they ask you to order your eggs, bacon, sausages etc. from a menu and while they cook that to order you can choose from cereals, fruits, asian foods, various breads, pastries, croissants, cheeses etc. There was also a couple of other hot dishes such as fried potatoes, mushrooms, tomatoes, waffles, pancakes, etc. that changed daily. We stayed at the Peninsula in Bangkok afterwards and I think the Marina did better eggs.

There were massages by the pool, and I had a pedicure. We also ordered liqueurs and coffee delivered to our room to enjoy on the balcony.

All in all it was a perfect week, and thank god it was a long way from Patong.

Deb

Hi favnet,

Deb%26#39;s (djh1) reply could have lterally been mine, too. Had exactly the same experience. I think also the same room (';second row'; bungalow with a hardly obstructing lowered roof and a palm tree in front, with a great view of Karon Bay). I slso second her thoughts on Karon and Patong letter for letter. I was amazed how friendly the staff was, and that everybody seemed to know our names, service always present but never intrusive, just a great place (on a somewhat commercialized island)!

compact disc drive back

transport from interational airport to pattaya

travelling to pattaya on 21st october from international airport,do local buses do this or do we need to hire a taxi.? thank you

transport from interational airport to pattaya

See this ';Top Pattaya Question';:

tripadvisor.com/Travel-g293919-s301/Pattaya:…

transport from interational airport to pattaya

Zoe follow the link DC gave you and just grab a taxi, it%26#39;s cheap (under $50) and it%26#39;s simple.

many thanks guys,sounds much easier than coping with luggage on bus .

It%26#39;s so easy, it shouldn%26#39;t be legal.

Zoe if this is your first trip to the Kingdom, take a look at this link;

tripadvisor.com/Travel-g293915-s1/Thailand:I…

...The page has all sorts of SHORT but informative Inside Pages on making the most of your time in Thailand;

hi! have been to bangkok five times before ,we really love the friendly people and of course the fun shopping but have dental appointments from well recommended dental clinic in Pattaya and what a good excuse for another trip.

Havaianas

Can you buy Havaianas flip flops/ thongs in Bangkok? If so how much for either genuine or copies?

Beach Bungalow

My girlfriend and I are looking for somewhere to spend a week in thailand. we are looking for a beach bungalow, preferably on one of the islands, even phuket if we have to.

Happy to pay up to AU$100 per night. We woud love to find somewhere that isnt very busy and not taken over by too many tourists, we simply want to be staying right on the beach and walk out our front door and be on the sand.

can anyone advise anything worthwhile?

CC fees for hotels

Hi,

I have made hotel reservations via Booking, com and Asia Rooms which request that I pay with CC when I arrive ie not already debited from CC yet.

i have a stupid question:

Will I only be asked to pay the rate I was given on my reservation form ? (it states VAT and service charge included). I will not be required to pay the CC merchant fee, on top , will I ?

I would like to know if I will have to pay cash to avoid more charges. .

thanks

CC fees for hotels

I wouldn%26#39;t expect so, no. The reservation confirmation that the agents will have emailed you will show the ';total'; to be paid.

You do of course have the option to pay cash to that amount if you choose.

CC fees for hotels

We have found that some hotels, mainly the smaller ones, impose a CC fee when using a card.

Most of the bigger hotels have not passed on the fees.

anybody done JC Tours Similans 1 day tour?

Hi, was have used JC Tours before, but was just wondering what their 1 day trip to Similans by speedboat was like. Just wondering as it we book before end of Oct for any dates even after that time it is only 2900 baht pp and free one way tranfer from airport to hotel and don%26#39;t have to pay till we get there....seems like a good deal but would like to hear what other people think.

thanks

anybody done JC Tours Similans 1 day tour?

H,

I%26#39;ve used JC Tours for both their Phi Phi and Phang Nga tours, and have only good things to say about them. I can%26#39;t comment on the trip to the Similians, but the tour operator is really worth the money. Just keep in mind that the Similians are quite far from Phuket, you%26#39;re looking at a 2 hour trip to get there and 2 hours back. I%26#39;m not sure if the travelling time is worth the few hours that you%26#39;ll be there?

Cheers.

anybody done JC Tours Similans 1 day tour?

Hi, I read someone else%26#39;s account of going to Similans *not sure what company they used) and they said after all the tours they did (and they listed quite an impressive list) it was the Similan trip that was the highlight even with all the traveling....so I thought hell, why not, seeing it is suppose to be really something to behold.

anybody used JC tours for this trip?

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how to married

How to get to Grand palace from Asia Hotel

I read that there is a canal near to Asia Hotel. if it is true, is it possible to take a river taxi from there to Grand palace? or i still need to travel to saphan taksin pier to take boat to Grand palace from asia hotel?

How to get to Grand palace from Asia Hotel

Klong Saen Saeb is a disgusting canal which if you fell into it, you would dissolve before you could drown!

I%26#39;d stick to skytrain from right outside the Asia, and express boat. Its fun and doesn%26#39;t take long.

Driving and Parking in Phuket - Advice Needed

Friends have been suggesting to us to rent a car and stay at a resort / villa facility and just drive ourselves everywhere. The hotel itself does not suggest this as they say parking in Patong is a problem. What%26#39;s the real deal? Do we stay outside of Patong and enjoy the resort or stay closer to Patong? How easy and safe is it for someone who knows how to drive (albeit on the other side of the road and car) to rent a car in Phuket and drive around and find parking, especially in Patong%26#39;s malls?

Driving and Parking in Phuket - Advice Needed

Meal, Have answered this on the Phuket forum.

Cathy

Sheraton krabi vs. Indigo pearl Phuket??

Hi,

Trying to decide where to spend 2 weeks in jan, either Sheraton krabi or indigo pearl Phuket...any ideas? We want somewhere close-ish to some bars / restaurants but not too busy. If anyone has any other suggestions to throw into the melting pot I%26#39;m open to ideas!

Thanks

K

Sheraton krabi vs. Indigo pearl Phuket??

I have stayed at the Indigo Pearl and in Krabi at the Centara Grand.

The Indigo Pearl is a lovely hotel - I would recommend upgrading to a Pearl Bed room which is much more spacious and better appointed. The hotel is in a quiet location although there are some good beach restaurants with really tasty and cheap local food. The only slight negative is the beach - it is okay but not as attractive as those around Krabi. The Indigo Pearl is set in very spacious grounds and has a good selection of pools - one with a swim up bar with cheap cocktails at happy hour and never felt crowded. The breakfasts there were great although I would be inclined to use the beach restaurants in the evenings.

I cannot comment on the Sheraton Krabi although I do prefer the scenery of the Krabi area. I think I would have difficulty choosing between the Centara Grand and Indigo Pearl through - the Centara Grand scores more points on location and scenery and the Indigo Pearl on food and hotel amenities. We are off to the Amari Vogue in Krabi next year which also looks good.

Sheraton krabi vs. Indigo pearl Phuket??

I liked the look of the vogue but it seemed really remote and I want to be able to sample local food at local prices

Yes I think you are right on the Vogue - we will unfortuntely be reliant on the hotel for food.

I think the Sheriton is still pretty isolated though - if you look at its reviews with one star there are some complaints over location. I think if I wanted access to good local food I would choose the indigo pearl over the sheriton.

If you want to visit krabi and have access to local restaurants you could try the Centara Grand Beach Resort %26amp; Villas where we stayed last time. This hotel had a lovely location in a secluded bay however you could walk to Ao Nang over the infamous %26#39;monkey way%26#39; a boardwalk around the headland which took around 20 minutes.

Amari Vogue is an amazing place. We filled up on the buffet breakfast on most days and didn%26#39;t really need lunch. We took advantage of the fee courtesy transport into Ao Nang a few times and thus ate dinner in town most of the time.

Comparing the Centara Grand Beach Resort in Krabi to the Amari Vogue Resort is like chalk and cheese the Amari easily wins hands down.

The Sheraton is a 10min drive into Ao Nang whereas the Amari is a 20min drive into Ao Nang. The beach, the iews and overall location are far better at the Amari. Although there are a few small local restaurants within walking distance of the Sheraton. At the Amari you can walk to The Tubkaak Resort for a change of eatery.

Personally, having travelled this year to both Phuket and Krabi, I would go back to Krabi tomorrow - it is arguably the most beautiful province in all of Thailand with amazing limestone formations and great scenery. Far more authenitc Thai and more relaxing than in Phuket, yet still with just as uch things to see and do!

That is good to hear - I am really excited now!

I have booked a honeymoon suite at the Amari Vogue. Do you know if they are all on high floors with good views or whether I should request a specific room?

Unlocked Mobile for Thailand

Hi

Can I please confirm if I need to do anything else other than removing my provider SIM card for an unlocked mobile phone? I would like to use it in Thailand with a prepaid SIM card.

Thank you

Unlocked Mobile for Thailand

Confirmed!

Unlocked Mobile for Thailand

Hi,

Not sure I understand the exact question, but if you%26#39;re asking if simply removing your current SIM card is sufficient to make your phone UNlocked-- then the answer is no. If it%26#39;s *already* unlocked or was bought free from locking in the first place then you%26#39;ll be OK by simply removing the SIM..

Travel Safe,

Thank you for the responses. I wasn%26#39;t sure if global roaming had to be set up on my mobile before leaving Australia and wanted to check this because we will be leaving on Friday!

If you%26#39;re using your phone in Thailand with a local SIM, then you will not be ';global roaming.'; That only applies when you take a phone WITH its SIM to another country and use it there.

The SIM card is what gives your phone its ';brain.'; The PHONE doesn%26#39;t ';know'; or ';care'; what country it%26#39;s in.

The important thing is to make sure it isn%26#39;t SIM-LOCKED. If it%26#39;s unlocked and you pop in a Thai SIM, it ';thinks'; it%26#39;s a Thai phone with a Thai number.

Hi Tash, Heres some info on the Thai Sim Card that we use and how to get the cheapest rates etc etc.

http://www.cathyandgarystravelpages.com/phoning_home_-_sim_card%26#39;s.htm

Cathy

Thank you all for your help and for the link to your website about using mobile phones Cathy

OK I am confused reading all this.....lol. I was just going to take our 2 own mobile phones on roaming over there, my son also has one which we%26#39;ve used on roaming before in Vanuatu and found it very handy to have our mobiles at various times if we wanted to go separate ways at all. Am figuring I will be doing this with shopping at least!!!

Is this the best option as far as cost etc goes? Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks in advance

Leanne

In principle, if you use global roaming you will get slaughtered by your provider on extra charges. That%26#39;s why it makes sense to get your phone un-SIM-locked and get a Thai SIM card. Then it ';thinks'; it%26#39;s a local phone, making local calls.

luvtotravel.....global roaming is fine if your boss pays your phone bill. If you make a call, as I understand it, it is via the Aussie mobile network, so you are paying international calls in both directions. Get a Thai Sim for all, you can top them up for a few dollars.

Thanks bill2 sounds like an option but how do I know if I have to get my mobile un-SIM-locked?? Can I just take my own sim card out, put in a Thai one and be ready to go???

Also Brio2 I%26#39;d expect we%26#39;d only be using text messages but maybe we should get a Thai Sim. Are they readily available?

Probably silly questions but I%26#39;m really not sure.

Thanks in advance

Railay Village or Railay Bay? Help!

Hi,

I%26#39;m having a terrible time deciding between Railay Village and Railay Bay for my trip during the first week in December. At Railay Village, I%26#39;d stay in a pool villa, and at Railay Bay, in either a privacy cottage or a delux cottage.

The reviews of Railay Bay seem to be better, but it looks more like a 3-star resort than a 4-star one. Railay Village looks nicer but there are some unflattering reviews, mainly about exorbitant prices and unprofessional service. The last review on Railay Village seems to be from March, though...is there anyone who has stayed there since then and can give a more recent review?

Please do not comment if you work at one of these hotels. I%26#39;m trying to get unbiased reviews!

Can anyone help?! Thank you! :)

Railay Village or Railay Bay? Help!

I was at Railay Village in January. Honestly I don%26#39;t understand the negative reviews. The resort is gorgeous and there are 2 fantastic pools. We thought there was nothing negative about the service. Our room was kept impeccable, in fact, I%26#39;m quite certain they spent at least 1/2 hr in our room a day. The only thing I would say is they charge a lot of laundering, so all we did was simply bring our clothes over to Sand Sea to get them done much cheaper ( 2 min walk).

As for Railay Bay, we walked through the resort but didn%26#39;t stay there. The resort is a mix of anything between a 2 1/2-3 star and a 4 star depending on which room you choose. There are cheap rooms on the east end that are lower star, and it goes up from there.

The restaurants at both places were very good.

We really preferred the look and the feel of railay village. So much that we are going back again in December ourselves. I would highly recommend it. Though I%26#39;m sure railay bay is good too.

DO note though, that Railay Bay does charge a mandatory transfer fee to the hotel, whereas Railay Village does not.

Railay Village or Railay Bay? Help!

Halilee,

Thanks for your response! You said that you preferred the look and feel of Railay Village to Railay Bay. Could you elaborate a bit more on that?

Also, we would be staying in a pool villa, not a spa villa; I%26#39;m concerned about noise given that the rooms overlook the pool. (At many hotels, staying near the pool means hearing kids screaming a lot of the time.)

A couple of people have mentioned that the spa is very expensive. Did you find that to be the case? If so, is it easy to go to other hotels to get more affordable massages?

Thanks!

Twhufc

What I mean by saying I preferred the look of Railay Village was that it was more intimate and not as spread out as Railay Bay. To me, Railay Bay looked haphazardly thrown together since there are SOOOO many different type of rooms including standard hotel rooms. The privacy rooms, which I%26#39;m sure are great inside, make the resort in areas look like giant blocks of concrete. It just didn%26#39;t look very nice imo. Though the restauarant was great!

Railay Village was beautifully landscaped. The pool villas are gorgeous, and when we were there in January, very very queiet. In fact, it was kind of weird, no one ever used that pool. We used it every day for 5 days usually around 4pm till 6pm. We only once saw another person in it. The many times we%26#39;d go to our rooms for something, there was rarely if ever anyone in them, not sure why. We loved the pool. Beautifully landscaped as well, very very clean, and huge. The other pool is closer to the beach, but even that one wasn%26#39;t used much either. Maybe everyone was on the beach? LOL. We didn%26#39;t find many kids on Railay either. I think we might have seen a dozen total if we were lucky in the 5 days there. It was very relaxing.

I can%26#39;t comment on the spa as we didn%26#39;t use it at all. In fact, I didn%26#39;t even see it till the last day as it%26#39;s kinda tucked away in the back of the resort ( behind the pool and to the right). Maybe someone else can comment on the spa. :)

Feel free to ask anymore questions. :) Have fun!

Oh yeah, to give you an idea of how Railay Village is set up. In the back is the pool villas with the large pool. You walk towards the beach and pass the spa villas, all beautifully landscaped with little ponds and bridges leading to them. ( small but pretty bridges/ponds). At the end of the spa villas to the right is the smaller pool.. very pretty. Over to the left is the open restaurant ( all of west railay restaurants are open air and right in front of the beach). I have some pics up in a review of railay village here on tripadvisor too. :)

Halilee,

Thanks for your thoughtful responses! Just thought I%26#39;d share that over the weekend I booked a pool villa at Railay Village for my trip in the beginning of December. The rooms, grounds and beach setting all look stunning. I can%26#39;t wait!

Thanks again for your help!

Twhufc

I%26#39;m so excited for you! I hope you enjoy your stay as much as we did! You%26#39;ll have to update us. :) I know I sure can%26#39;t wait to go back there again. We stay at Railay village again from Dec 16-21st. :)

sausage in a pasta recipe

Hotel close to Hualamphong Train Station

Hi, I’m looking for a Hotel for one night close to the Hualamphong Train Station for around $60 to $110 any suggestions.

Thanks for your help again

inaspin

Hotel close to Hualamphong Train Station

Bangkok Centre Hotel is under AU$50 and very handy to the station. (I%26#39;ve never stayed there).

Reviews;

tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g293916-d308727…

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Overwhelmed with Hotel options

There%26#39;s just too many options for nice hotels in Bangkok. At this point I%26#39;m looking for suggestions here to limit the choices so something more reasonable. My travel search sites are giving me over 100 to chose from.

Looking for a nice hotel by Sukhumvit between North 1-02 and Thanon Ratchadaphisek. I would prefer one not directly on this road as it is a major traffic location and a bit of peace at night would be nice. If I can walk to a SkyTrain station in 10-min from the hotel that would be a plus. The room should have internet access and not just WiFi in the lobby. An RJ-45 connection (hardwire) in the room would be super. A clean, nice, friendly and secure room makes for a good combination.

Since I will be coming in from Tokyo something a bit nicer than the size of a cardboard box would be welcome. Having a safe in the room is preferred. Trying to keep the room cost under $120/night. That doesn%26#39;t mean a cheap $30/night room is out of the question, but a little space to splurge on would be nice.

What I don%26#39;t need are free meals, coupons, tickets for drinks or anything like that. Any restaurants, pools, spa, fitness or retail stores are not needed either. Anything I need to eat, spas to go to, entertainment and all that I%26#39;ll probably find out in the town while wandering about. My itinerary will keep me in the city solo.

Do the hotels charge for guests or prohibit them?

Overwhelmed with Hotel options

Have a look at

http://www.bangkok.com/hotels/sukhumvit/

Overwhelmed with Hotel options

Try President Park, it has everything you wanted. It is a 15 min walk to the skytrain but there is a free tuk tuk service to it

What about guests?

depends on the hotel - regarding guests. Pick a hotel, email them and ask their guest policy. :)

guests are free, read the reviews on President Park. The manager even replies to them!

';....What about guests?';

*

Expensive hotels often charge you for guests. Cheaper places (with air, HW, private toilet, etc.) under 1500 let guests in free most of the time. But it depends on the hotel.

Your specific requirements for wifi connection makes it harder to place a cheaper hotel. There are hotels under 1000 baht that have the air, HW, private toilet, TV, etc. but no wifi in the rooms. Wifi in the lobby maybe. Besides there are lots and lots of cheap internet shops all over the city plus coffee places and even McDonalds have free wifi.

Guest friendly hotel. Buffet breakfast, 5 minute walk from Nana Skytrain. Foodland Supermarket nearby has a restaurant open 24 hours. Easy walk to malls, street vendors, nightlife, travel agencies for tours and other restaurants. Not sure if there is wifi in the room. Fortuna Hotel on Sukhumvit Soi 5. I eat at their morning buffet pretty often over the years but I stay in even cheaper places but always with air, etc. (Even on some busy streets with the windows up and A/C on I rarely hear road traffic.)

http://www.fortunabangkok.com/fact/

Here is a cheap place with free wifi in rooms. On Sukhumvit Soi 7, same things around it as the Fortuna but cheaper rooms.

Maxims:

http://www.maximinn.com/rooms.html

Other places available with air, TV, private toilet/shower available in this lower Sukhumvit area near the Nana Skytrain.

Unless it is the Christmas Holidays you may not have to book every night at one time. You could book a couple days and check out some other places if you want.

Up to you!

Good luck.

On several sites I see specials that end on 31 Oct. Is this like the end of the season for deals or will more deals be likely for the first week in December??

Deals in December are unlikely. This is the high season.

Is it normal for hotels in Bangkok to put up massive charges for cancellations? If it is then is there a problem which is causing many people to cancel their rooms?

Here%26#39;s a direct quota I%26#39;ve seen on a few hotel sites so far ...

';Cancellation or no-show will result in charge of THB 22,975.00';

That%26#39;s roughly $683 USD.

depends who you book with and their terms. Normally hotel policy if you reserve with a credit card is 72hrs and 1 night.

I%26#39;ve seen what you describe from LateStays.com. (prob a caveat for getting a better deal)

anyone used bangkok flight services-fast track immigration

anyone used this meet %26amp;greet service/fast track immigration iits not cheap 1200 thb for 2 people but i have has some bad experiences in goa %26amp; kenya where it took forever

never been to thailand before is it easy to find your way from domestic arrival area to international dept ,is immigration a smooth painless process

anyone used bangkok flight services-fast track immigration

You%26#39;d be wasting your money with this. The airport is very easy to navigate; immigration is not a problem as long as you have a passport valid longer than 6 months ahead, and have a visa if staying longer than 30 days. I%26#39;m guessing Bristol is UK? If so, then for stays less than 30 days you don%26#39;t need a visa with a UK passport.

anyone used bangkok flight services-fast track immigration

Most of the time when I arrive at Suvarnabhumi the wait is not that long. Usually by the time I get my passport stamped I have time to make a head call before the carousel comes around with the bags. You still have to wait for you luggage to come off the plane.

Walking from some gates seems a little long at times depending on your airline. There are free push carts available. If you have disabilities you can get wheelchairs or even a motorized ride to immigration.

Good luck.

International and Domestic are in the same place, just opposite ends. From International Arrivals, you go up the elevator or escalator to the next level, and find your check-in from the info board there.

Day Trips & Sightseeing from La Flora

We%26#39;re off to La Flora for a week very soon and are looking for tips on what to see/do from Khao Lak. We%26#39;re not scuba divers or snorkellers but I think a trip around Phang Nga Bay and to James Bond Island would be good to do. Also we like nature, national parks and spotting wildlife and I know there are several nature-based activities around. I%26#39;d like recommendations for tours and operators and also any we should avoid. I%26#39;d also like to do a cooking class and we%26#39;ll be making use of the spa either at La Flora or elsewhere. Any suggestions on what to do and see would be greatly appreciated. We also would like enough time to relax...so aren%26#39;t looking for something to do every day (maybe 3 or 4 days in total for activities). Many thanks!

Day Trips %26amp; Sightseeing from La Flora

Have a look top right at Top Questions about Khao Lak and in particular at '; What are the top tours or things to do in or around Khao Lak?'; tripadvisor.com/Travel-g297914-c109161/Khao-…

Hopefully this will give you plenty of ideas.

Phang Nga Bay is a sheltered bay so there should still be plenty of tours running there. However, it is very much weather dependent and better booking when you arrive. There are plenty of operators and tour desks, a good one (if it is open) being jus up the road from La Flora at Marc%26#39;s Steakhouse.

Have a look at Khao Lak Land Discovery (biggest tour operator in Khao Lak) website at www.khaolaklanddiscovery.com/bookings.php to give you an idea of the range of tours. Khao Sok National Park is particularly good at this time of year for rides on the river as it will be more full and flowing than in the Dry Season.

For a cooking class, one og longest standing and most popular is 10 minutes (by taxi) down the highway at O%26#39;Connor%26#39;s Irish Pub (great THAI food!!!) in Bang La On. See http://irishpub-khaolak.com/ and this previous thread for others tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g297914-i10908-k21…

Day Trips %26amp; Sightseeing from La Flora

Hi,

Phang Nga Bay and James Bond Island is a lovely trip to do and the scenery is amazing here you would also visit Koh Panyee the sea gypsey vilage which is popular and some trips also include paddling in the mangroves by canoe. As Arandora has already said Khao Sok is magnificent at this time of year and also Chieow Laan Lake is amazing with a visit to the raft houses. Here is another link to a cooking class in Bang Niang at the Candle Restaurant

www.thecandlerestaurant.com/restaurant3.html

Julie

What is the AUD to Thai Baht conversion price at the moment?

What is the AUD to Thai Baht conversion price at the moment?

What is the AUD to Thai Baht conversion price at the moment?

Here;

…daytodaydata.net/default.aspx

Let your fingers do the walking.

What is the AUD to Thai Baht conversion price at the moment?

tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g297930-i9925-k314…

I just wondered what people are getting at the actual exchanges in Phuket. I can buy for 27.5 if I purchase on line here before I go. But I remember someone telling me that it is better in Phuket??

Well, you%26#39;ve already have had the answers to your questions given to you on a silver platter.

The rate in Thailand will be almost 10% better than you%26#39;ll get in oz, and there%26#39;s no extra commissions involved.

Check the websites you%26#39;ve been given.

If you purchase your money on-line what sort of printer do you need to print the notes?

Hi aussie_gal_0.

Yesterday in Patong and Kata it was 29.51 baht for AUD.

Nat

My best friend http://www.oanda.com/convert/cheatsheet

print it out and take it with you.

enjoy

shway

This time last year when we were there, we got as little as 21 baht per Aus$! We are heading over next Saturday and are watching the exchange rate with glee!! Am very glad I didn%26#39;t pay all of the accomodation up front.

HI

Just got back yesterday. The best price I got was 29.20 at the green bank exchanges. The airport was only 25.00 to each aussie dollar. The average was about 28.80 for the week we were there. Dont exchange at your hotel or the airport as you wont get as much.

Regards

Sharon

HI

Just got back yesterday. The best price I got was 29.20 at the green bank exchanges. The airport was only 25.00 to each aussie dollar. The average was about 28.80 for the week we were there. Dont exchange at your hotel or the airport as you wont get as much.

Regards

Sharon

where to find dog costumes

Outrigger Resort Laguna Beach

Can anybody advise on the location of the new Outrigger Resort at Laguna Beach which is due to open in December 2009.Is it near beach and how far from Laguna Beach Resort is it ? Any help would be appreciated.

Outrigger Resort Laguna Beach

We were there in aug at Allamanda which is in the same area there was still a lot of work to do but things can happen quickly in asia .It is right on the beach about five minutes from Laguna Beach resort by Laguna bus

Patong in November

Hi There,

I have just booked a holiday circuit in Thailand in November, which includes 4 nights in Patong (Phuket).

My questions are:

1. Hotel Patong Resort is located in a convenient area ?;

2. Where is the best beach nearby ?;

3. I would like to participate in a one-day tour to Phi Phi Island, it%26#39;s easy to find those tours ? And about prices and timetables ?;

4. About Food. Normally in Asia food is very cheap, what kind of prices should I expect from a meal in Phuket (ex. Thai food dinner or pizza) ?;

5. What kind of visits should be interesting to do in Phuket ?

6. What kind of weather should I expect ?

Patong in November

1. Great location

2. You are going to be 200m from Patong Beach

3. Tours are about 2000Bt and available in Travel Booths everywhere.

4. Thai food on street, 50Bt, restaurant 100Bt, Pizza 250 Bt.

5. Depends on your intrerests, a forum search or click ';things to do'; link will help you narrow it down.

6. Hot and fine.

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resort with a decent beach in Patong?

Hi everyone,

Wondering if there are any suggestions for a resort with a good beach access in Patong: most places mention that the beach is%26#39;just across the road%26#39;, but haven%26#39;t come across a place which has a private beach in Patong.

Thinking of booking Novotel but wanted to get some expert advice!

Thks, Ani

resort with a decent beach in Patong?

Private beaches are illegal as beaches are public property. In Patong Town center, a road runs alongside the beach cutting off the buildings from the beach. Many hotels in the outskirts and in other areas have good beach access. Any hotel directly on a beach has to allow public access to the beach (but not through the hotel itself)..

resort with a decent beach in Patong?

understood, that clears things up. thanks!

Patong Beach is really not a decent swimming beach. We just came back and they had the red flags out for no swimming most days and it was dirty and murky. For good beach access though try the Patong Merlin or the Holiday Inn. For a better beach, pick something on Karon Beach.

Hi Donald, Le Meridian has its ';own'; beach, its a few km south of Patong. Its out of the way, so add transport costs to your budget to get to shops and restaurants.

Current Weather in Phuket/Kata

Oh boy only 4 sleeps until we had off to paradise again. I am interested if anyone knows what the weather is doing in Phuket/Kata at the moment please?

Current Weather in Phuket/Kata

Us too hope the rain and thunderstorms clear up before we get there.

Current Weather in Phuket/Kata

We have been in July and May before and during that time when it rained it was only for about an hour and then cleared up - hoping the same thing happens in October.

Hi Guys

it has been raining and overcast for the past couple of days. However today has been less wet and the sun is trying to shine through. Looks like the weather is clearing up. Let%26#39;s hope that I have not spoken too soon :))

Chantal.

Hope the weather is clearing too. Only 6 more sleeps.

Chantal please please keep the weather clear for at least a day so hubby can dive.

See you soon

BTW we cancelled Serene and booked TGR - hope we don%26#39;t get a green room lolol.

Mari

Good news today...sun shining now after a brief shower very early this morning.

Otherwise Marijka tell your hubby not to worry - we will get his gills wet properly. See you guys soon and in the meantime have a good trip over! Refreshments are already on ice!

Chantal.

Chantal,

Phuket scuba club will be our first stop - after 7-11.

Looking forward to meet you all.

Mari

Whats it like today Chantal.

Craig

Hi.

Yesterday there was no rain in Kata. Alternated between sunny and slightly overcast. Very warm.

There were showers overnight.

This morning clear sky /sunny with a few clouds. No rain yet and it%26#39;s not looking like it so far.

Nat

It is absolutely gorgeous today, like yesterday and even the sea has calmed down with only small waves. Not sure about the rips but I think it won%26#39;t be long before I am swimming in the sea again!

It is absolutely gorgeous today, like yesterday and even the sea has calmed down with only small waves. Not sure about the rips but I think it won%26#39;t be long before I am swimming in the sea again!

approx cost of calls from pre-paid sim cards

Hi all, I have read the old posts regarding purchasing a local pre-paid sim card to use while on holiday in Thailand to call home (South Africa for me and Australia for a friend joining me there) HOWEVER, I could not find any information about approximately how much these international calls cost? I saw a post that said you could buy a pre-paid sim for 99 baht which then includes 50baht of airtime...... how long would this 50baht last on an international call - using the 009 prefix? Just approximately - are we talking about a few seconds of airtime or 5 minutes etc etc?? Thanks to you all, Cheryl

approx cost of calls from pre-paid sim cards

5-10min depending on plan :)

approx cost of calls from pre-paid sim cards

thanks a lot!

Here%26#39;s a list someone posted in July on the Thai Visa Forum:

007 9baht per minute (www.tot.co.th/toten/index.php…)

008 6baht per minute (www.tot.co.th/toten/index.php…)

005 expensive 22baht per minute (http://www.ain.co.th/en/005_country_rate.html)

009 expensive 15baht per minute (www.cattelecom.com/site/th/list_service.php…)

001 20baht per minute (www.cattelecom.com/site/th/list_service.php…)

These rates change constantly. In Thailand, on 1-2-Call dial 1175, press 2 for English, and ask the operator about the latest rates. On DTAC call 1816.

Thank you, very helpful links and information!

When we were there I bought a card from D-tac for 49baht and put 200 bht in credit on it. Called internally at least 10 times, texted, texted a few times to Aus and a couple of short phone calles to Aus and I still had 30 odd baht left. Wish our calls were as cheap! You can always top up easily as well.

Yes - thank you very much indeed!!!! Definitely still cheaper than making calls with my ';normal'; sim card.....

on further investigation - it looks like the best deal to call South Africa is using TOT with the 008 prefix - does this mean I need to buy a specific sim card - or will any sim card allow me to use the 008 prefix? I do understand that the quality may not be great - but it%26#39;s 7 baht per minute vs 32 baht per minute - so maybe worth a bit of inteference?? thanks for your quick and helpful replies!!

Just call with any SIM and using 008 instead of 001 or ';+'; as your international access code.

Thank you!!

silk comforter

Tailors

Only 5 weeks to go but who%26#39;s counting.

Want to get my son a suit in Phuket. A couple of questions. What measurements do we need and is it cm or inches.

Another thought, rather than measure him would it be easier to take the suit he wears now.

Whats the average to pay for a suit, and i%26#39;m liking the the thought of some silk shirts, what do they usually run at.

Tailors

If you%26#39;re son isnt going with you, would probably be best to take the suit and they can copy it - that will ensure best fit I think. Otherwise you could try emailing one of the tailors. We used Instyle %26amp; Manit has very good english so not problems with language difficulties.

Price will depend on fabric choice - but should be in the $200-$300 range. We only had cotton shirts done and they worked out $35-$45 per shirt- again depends on the fabric.

Tailors

My husband had a suit made by Instyle in Kata which he is very happy with. We travelled with some friends who also had a suit made for their son. They emailed the tailor before they left and enquired which measurements they needed. They then took the measurements with them.

The problem with taking an existing suit, is that you would then get a suit made to the same size as your existing off the rack suit, rather than made to the size of your body, which seems to sort of defeat the purpose of getting one made.

Deb

pricing of suits is a matter of great debate, i%26#39;ve got a few suits stitched in beijing, china for $100 USD, super 180s fabric which is really good. The store is a famous one where famous NBA stars like Charles Barkley have gotten their threads.

Anyways, select the material first, then negotiate pricing, never talk price first. In thailand, i think for less than $200 u can get a decent quality suit. if u r good at bargaining, i %26#39;ve read about suits made for $150.

One trick i learnt is, hold the fabric in your hand crumple it in your fist for a few seconds and then open your hand, if the fabric has developed wrinkles, then its gonna be a wrinkly cloth. Also, if you havent heard about this forum before, prepare to feast on clothing tips at: www.askandyaboutclothes.com/forum/index.php

Agree with #1, it will end up not fitting him properly.

Lz Lzznta or Moonlight Bay

Can%26#39;t decide between a sandcastle villa at La Laanta and a beachfront villa at Moonlight Bay. Anyone got any opinions?

Lz Lzznta or Moonlight Bay

Stayed at moonlight twice. absolutely beautiful. service great. tranquility great. all good in fact. dont know the other one.moonlight setting is unique with its own beach and great snorkelling on site.best sunsets from balconies on beach and seaview. if you really want a good room the honeymoon suite has own private jacuzzi with stunning views.

Lz Lzznta or Moonlight Bay

Stayed at moonlight twice. absolutely beautiful. service great. tranquility great. all good in fact. dont know the other one.moonlight setting is unique with its own beach and great snorkelling on site.best sunsets from balconies on beach and seaview. if you really want a good room the honeymoon suite has own private jacuzzi with stunning views.

Ratri Restaurant

Hi

Has anyone eaten here - is it a good atmosphere and what are the prices like please

Thanks a lot

Ratri Restaurant

Although I have not eaten there recently, the location and views are stunning. Also If I remember correctly they provide transfers to and from hotels locally if you call them in advance.

Check out their menu here:

http://www.ratrijazztaurant.com

Hope this helps.

Chantal.

Ratri Restaurant

Thanks Chantal

Sorry ... a few more questions

Is it very expensive?

Which are the best nights to go %26amp; what times to avoid?

Thanks

I went nearly two years ago and the views were amazing and food was great. We got there for sunset and it was incredible. I cant remember the price for food, I know Mamas Tri villa was more expensive.

hi, we a family of 2 adults and 2 teenagers went to Ratri in August. We had a free transfer to the restaurant but we had to pay for return transfer. The restaurant does have fab views but it was very windy when we were there so ended up with a messy hair do!! Our meal in total came to approx 5000bht.

That included 4 starters 4 main courses a bottle of wine and a few other drinks.

We all thought the food was nice but not worth what we paid for it. Think you could get just as good quality food in Kata but without the view. Bear in mind the time dinner is served it is dark and you wont have much of a view anyway!

Also remember that they will add on tax and service charge to your bill which bumps up the price. Would we go back again - probably not!!

hope this helps

prescription cream

Diving

Hi there - I am looking to complete the PADI in November...was thinking of going to Khao Lak / Similans etc, but it seems so expensive and we%26#39;re on a bit of a tight budget!

somebody said to me that Krabi would be cheaper and as we shall be in Ao Nang anywhere for a trip with Andaman Camp and Cruise, we thought we may give it a go there!

Does anybody have any recommendations for companies and ideas on price?

Would it be best to just wait until we get there and see what the best deal we can get?

Any advice is much appreciated!!!

Diving

Hi Red122 - have just PM%26#39;ed you a recommendation but as it%26#39;s owned by my Brother I can%26#39;t post it here. Hope it helps.

Baan Orapin, Dreamcatchers or Fern Paradise?!

Hello,

My boyfriend and I will be in Chiang Mai in December and are trying to decide among Baan Orapin, Dreamcatchers and Fern Paradise. Location isn%26#39;t really a concern for us, which is why we%26#39;re considering both in town and out of town options.

Here are my questions:

1) What is offered for breakfast at each of these B%26amp;Bs? (I%26#39;m hoping for more detail than just ';American breakfast or Thai breakfast';!)

2) Could someone please comment on the quality of the bathrooms at each B%26amp;B? A good shower and a nice, spotlessly clean bathroom are both important. Also, I can%26#39;t find any photos of the bathrooms at Fern Paradise; are they indoors or outdoors?

3)How comfortable are the beds at each of these B%26amp;Bs? A pretty firm mattress is not a problem, but a really soft mattress is!

4)Finally, several of the TA reviews of Fern Paradise mention finding lizards and red ants around. Is this common? And if there are lizards and ants, does this mean there are SNAKES? (This would be a definite deal breaker!)I realize there are snakes in Thailand, but is staying in surroundings like those at Fern Paradise %26#39;asking for it%26#39;? :)

Thank you; any advice will be much appreciated!

Baan Orapin, Dreamcatchers or Fern Paradise?!

Generally in Thailand its hard to find a soft mattress. I have to put a topper on mine just so its a little softer than a slab of marble. You get used to it though and if you have many pillows you can wrap yourself around them.

I do not know the GH you mentioned but if there are lizards that surely means that there are no snakes to eat them. Well in using that logic, the lizards should eat the ants so why are there ants !

There are creepie crawlies everywhere, they mostly leave you alone and snakes are more afraid of you so if you are out walking just make some noise. Not wishing to scare you, but snakes are everywhere and the reason you never see them is because they hear you coming first and disappear.

Baan Orapin, Dreamcatchers or Fern Paradise?!

I%26#39;ve only stayed at The Baan Orapin - so can only comment on that.

1) Breakfast is an offering of about six %26#39;sets%26#39; - fresh juice and a choice of hot/cold breakfast, freshly cut fruit, tea/coffee. There are Thai or Western options. It is served in a dining area full of historic photos that opens out on to a deck around the pool. There are only about a dozen rooms at the Baan Orapin and you will only ever have a few others (if any) eating with you. Attention to detail is high and the food excellent. It is cooked for you when you order.

2) The bathrooms are perfect. We had a suite/large shower and beautifully decorated.

3) The bed was a king, four poster bed and very comfortable - not hard.

4) You will find lizards, ants, mosquitos everywhere in Thailand. We didn%26#39;t see any inside - it is all screened and airconditioned. There could be snakes, but we have never seen one in Thailand. We do however see them in our back yard in suburban Brisbane, Australian fairly regularly.

There is a current trip report on page one of the forums on the Baan Orapin with more info. The reviews page should give you a lot of this information as well.

Caroline.

Also - here is the link to one of my Chiang May trip reports with more info on the Baan Orapin and surrounding area.

tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g293917-i9325-k231…

Caroline.

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I have only stayed at Baan Orapin a number of times mostly when they first opened but I booked 4 friends in late last year and they loved it.

With much respect to Caroline whose posts (lots of local knowledge) I enjoy very much, but I really find the breakfasts very average at Baan Orapin. Not sure if they have changed their cooks since my friends last stayed !!

But in saying this I find that Thai cooks generally dont do real good western style breakfasts.

From reading all posts generally re Baan Orapin I think that I am the only person that hasnt enjoyed their breakfast offerings. Maybe that says it all!!!

In my opinion (other than the breakfasts) you cant fault Baan Orapin.

Caroline,

Thanks for the info and for the link to your journal.

Do you know what the difference is between the junior suites in the front wing and those in the rear wing? I%26#39;ve heard that the rear wing rooms are generally quieter (except for the occasional barking dogs...did you have this problem? but am wondering if there%26#39;s a difference in size, decor, etc.

Thanks again!

Twhufc

Rosli,

Thanks for your message. I%26#39;m actually not into a traditional Western-style breakfast of eggs, meat, etc., so if that%26#39;s not their strong point, no problem! It sounds like there is no shortage of fruit, which is great, but do you know if cereal and/or toast is available?

Thanks!

Twhufc

I%26#39;ve gotten some helpful information about Baan Orapin; can anyone offer information on Dreamcatchers or Fern Paradise? :)

There are a number of different wings at the Baan Orapin - the front wing, rear wing - but there is also a middle section, which is near the pool and on ground level. We stayed in a suite in this section. I think they still call it the rear.

We didn%26#39;t hear a single barking dog where we were - maybe right at the back this is a problem.

If you look at their web page you%26#39;ll see pictures of all of the rooms, the decor is similar but all of the rooms are different. The suite we had was very large and it had a sitting area, comfortable chairs.

I think there would be a bit of traffic noise right at the front - but having said that, it is enclosed by a high fence and the front wing is directed back from the road towards the centre of the property - it does not run along the front fence.

You can get toast, cereal and fresh fruit for breakfast.

Because it comes in set meals, you might have to request a change to the set.

As far as Dream Catchers and Fern Paradise go, I%26#39;m sure they will both be fine. You might have to be guided by the review page for info and send a personal message to someone who has posted a recent review with any questions you have.

Caroline.

Hi,

Thanks to everyone who shared info about Baan Orapin. I decided that given the number of positive reviews, I%26#39;m bound to like it! I went ahead and booked a junior suite for 4 nights in the beginning of December.

Twhufc

curly hair

Travel to Sukothai - which route better?

Hi, am thinking of going to Sukothai by public transport (road). In terms of road conditions and scenery, is it better to go from Chiang Mai or from Bangkok, or it is the same? Thanks.

The Bliss Hotel???? Anyone..

Have just booked my next trip back to Thailand for next year and although I enjoyed my stay at the Mercure, am thinking to try somewhere different.

I am looking at The Bliss hotel in south patong in front of the Duangjitt but there doesnt seem to be any reviews only some piccies from Bob %26amp; Janette.

So would appreciate any info from someone who has stayed there, thanks. Also anyone know much about the Andakira Hotel???? which is opening.....thanks

The Bliss Hotel???? Anyone..

Looks like The Bliss is right next door to the Seagull %26amp; built %26amp;/or managed by the same people. Reviews of Seagull not so good.

On Sawasdee The Bliss%26#39;s prices include the much cheaper %26#39;Seagull wing%26#39; so can understand another%26#39;s poster thinking at cheaper prices they%26#39;ll end up at the Seagull.

tripadvisor.com/…REVIEWS

Bit confusing to me.

The Bliss Hotel???? Anyone..

Ahh thanks for that thought it sounded too good a price for March!! As we saw the place in may and thought it looked great, but no way is it worth the risk getting stuck at seagulls. thanks again :)

Yes that would be me looking at The Bliss but its such a good price for such a nice place that I am concerned that we would end up in Seagull ... just seems a little to good to be true%26gt; Think I will stick to Mercure seems to have good reviews.

Dizzie

Yeah diro,

the Mercure is great u will love it great locale clean and friendly with a good pool vibe... just make sure to get a pool view :)

You are correct the Bliss and Seagull are owned by the same family.

Chalk and cheese the two hotels. The Bliss is pure bliss but I can only say that as we were given a tour or the premises. We haven%26#39;t actually stayed there yet.

thanks for that B%26amp;J

Was there in may and we went thru a friends room that were staying at the Bliss and it looked great .. I am considering skyping the hotel to see if we will infact be paying for a Bliss room but , although a lover of thailand for over 15 years I have a feeling the other posts may be correct as putting us up in thier sister surroundings :(

will keep u all posted..

Again guys any info on the new Andakira hotel opening??

Your welcome. It seems from Sawadee that the Superior and Deluxe rooms are the Seagull and the Superior, Deluxe and Pool SUITES are for the Bliss.

I have emailled the owners and asked that they confirm this and suggested that perhaps they should re-word the advertising on Sawadee to avoid the confusion.

Cheers

Bob

Well done B%26amp;J :)

I would hate for others that dont do their homework to suffer, cheers again.. by the way have u heard of the Andakira??? although i dont mind a night out im just a little worried with its proximity to Bangla rd? have u guys heard anything about this property?? it opens in nov .. but the pics are still off the plan!!

Sorry don%26#39;t have any info on this place but look forward to your review :)

Cheers

Bob

Watch out! do not get booked into the Seagull hotel.the management are awful ( staff are lovely) but they are very inefficient.

Khao Phra Thaeo National Park

Hi all.

My girlfriend and I are heading over for our first trip to Thailand in about a fortnight%26#39;s time, very excited.

I%26#39;ve just about spent the last month on the net looking at things to do, and I%26#39;m really interested in getting away from the %26#39;touristy%26#39; areas and seeing some of the natural beauty that Thailand is famous for. In particular Khao Phra Thaeo National Park mentioned here:

www.phuket.com/island/parks.htm#khaophra

My question is, should we rent a scooter to get up there? I%26#39;m keen to rent one for a day to go exploring but how safe is it to leave a scooter in the carpark there. I know over here (NSW Australia) you wouldn%26#39;t just leave a scooter in a national park carpark because it%26#39;d quickly get loaded into the back of a ute and never seen again!

Any suggestions on what would be a good day trip out of Phuket?

Khao Phra Thaeo National Park

The risk of your scooter getting stolen is low in Phuket. Your biggest risk is having an accident. As I have mentioned elsewhere, Thailand has the highest accident and fatality rate in Asia for motorcycles, and its quite possible your travel insurance may exclude cover for m/c accidents. Driving standards are low and other motorcyclists take huge risks, often causing injuries to innocent people. There is no public ambulance service. If you do risk it, you%26#39;ll need an internationasl drivers permit valid for a m/c, and make sure you get good insurance cover, a helmet, and inspect the bike for damage before you sign anything. Don%26#39;t believe any bs the hire shops give you about its ok to use your own country%26#39;s drivers license.

Khao Phra Thaeo National Park

No problem at all using a driving licence from another country in Phuket. Bangkok may me different. I%26#39;ve been through dozens of police checkpoints in the past 4 years...never any problem.

chic spa

Hi All,

We are going to Hua Hin for xmas. Been browsing around for a chic affordable spa but couldnt find anything yet.

When we were in Bali we found this affordable gorgeous spa called Henna Spa at the Balquisse. Can have a look at this website:

http://www.balquisse.com/henna/

found Aka Spa but it is a tad far from our hotel (10clicks), we are looking at Amana and S%26#39;mor as well as recommended in this forum.

If anyone have any info about the spa like the Henna Spa (small establishment, private and gorgeous interior design) kindly let us know... :)

many thanks!

chic spa

Hi there,

this isn%26#39;t going to help you at all but my wife and I are going to Hua Hin in Jan 09 and would like to try out some spa therapies but have never done anything like this. What is Spa etiquette,do you arrive in swimwear/robe we have no clue and are aprehensive, please advise.

Thanks

PS Staying in the Anantara if that helps.

chic spa

We love the Spa%26#39;s and massage parlours, although at the much cheaper end of the market these days. Ettiquette/dresscode etc. varies from place to place and in all the places we have tried all staff have been very discreet so don%26#39;t worry too much there. As to what to wear sometimes depends on what treatment your having. If a full workover, bodyscrub then generally you%26#39;ll probably be in a private room, be naked but if really shy then they may let you keep on swimmies but some do supply mini pants usually not much bigger than a thong but always at least in my experience%26#39;s your sensitive parts are always covered with a towel and when time to turn over the towel is placed above their eye level and once again placed over your sensitive area. Sometimes I ask if everything off and the reply may be ';up to you';, on others if I stand there in my underpants they simply point to them and say those off as well and up comes the towel to hide any embarrassment.

Iff just the more simple massages then you are usually in a more open area and apart from footwear you can keep just about everything on although males will probably be topless.

As I say, much is up to the individual and their level of shyness but unless going into the backstreet parlours then discretion really is displayed by all the staff. Enjoy them all.

prescription cream

Bumrungrad International Hospital--my experience

I am an American use to the level of service and quality provided by US hospitals and US military hospitals.

First, all public areas of the hospital are very clean, plush, and similar to a ';airport lounge'; for frequent flyers. All the staff was well groomed and wearing specific uniforms to identify their roles.

Second, as I moved from each speciality department, I was escorted by a staff member. Much different than my US experiences of roaming the hospital and getting dirty looks from the staff when asking for directions.

Visited for a Comprehensive Health Check which included vitals, blood / urine test, chest x-ray, stress test, and other more detailed tests. Was expecting to pay 13,000 baht ($390), but I was only charged 8,600 baht ($258). They seemed to skip a few of the tests and when I questioned the doctor about why these tests were missing, he stated that after our initial exam, those tests were not needed for somebody my age, race, and medical background.

Wow. A doctor that decided not to run tests that would have cost me an additional 4400 baht ($132). In addition to the 8600 baht, I was charged 877 baht ($26) for 2 prescriptions. I checked the prices on a US website, and those prescriptions would have cost me at least $140.

Yes. Maybe I should have insisted on the additional tests because they may have turned up something, but I specifically selected this doctor because he did his residency in my US hometown. We were able to communicate very well in English.

By Thai standards, this hospital is very expensive. That may explain why it was full of foreigners. Many of the Thais I know were very impressed that I would be visiting this hospital, and said that was only for rich people. Estimate that I saved about 50% of what I would have spent in the US, and the difference in level of customer service was dramatic.

My recommendation is to ask a lot of questions of the hospital via e-mail. Since I am a tourist with no Thai insurance, I paid via credit card. They even gave me a choice of being charged in Baht or USD.

Bumrungrad International Hospital--my experience

';I am an American use to the level of service and quality provided by US hospitals and US military hospitals.';

Quite a difference, isn%26#39;t it!

It%26#39;s also great that you get your test results in real time, not a week or two later.

A Bumrungrad doctor once prescribed an antibiotic that I didn%26#39;t tolerate well. We called the pharmacy, who contacted the doctor. He withdrew the prescription and they said I could return it for a refund.

This concerned me. I really didn%26#39;t like the idea of a pharmacy taking medicine back in. But, when they said that there would be a 20% fee, because they had to toss the meds, I was relieved.

Don%26#39;t try this in the States!

Bumrungrad International Hospital--my experience

Yes, this hospital maintains a remarkable standard. I had a dental emergency some months back while on a short holiday in BKK and the concierge at the Peninsular hotel recommended this hospital. The dentist I was appointed to did a wonderful job and went to great length to inform me of the possible complications and precautions I should take.Very professional indeed.

Thanks for the info, TokyoBob! :-)

Great place, I have been there many times and have always been happy with both the customer service and the fair pricing.

Its ironic though that they have a large heart by-pass clinic and their own mc donalds on the same floor !

I had some tests in there once and the Doc told me that I had to shed a few pounds, I had to wait for further results and ended up lunching in mickey dees. Could they not have thought of a more healthier option to offer people.

I still go back there annually for tests and a big mac.

Bumrungrad has a very good reputation but is expensive. The Op%26#39;s experience is fairly typical of the better private hospitals in Bangkok, including Vichayut, Vibavadhi, and several others.

There are dining options at Bumrungrad. We usually hit the food court, down the hall from McDonalds. There is also an upscale food court on the 11th floor.

I always find the presence of Au Bon ';Pain'; bakeries a bit ironic in a hospital setting.

I would say Bumrungrad, Sametivej and BNH would be in a similar class. At many of the larger ';Thai'; focused facilities, although the care might be great, and the doctors will often speak English well, the staff may not. This is important, especially for an inpatient.

I found one doctor at Vichayut, who practiced for ';17 years in the States';, to be a complete hack.

Unfortunately most of tests carried out are wase of time and serve no reall medical purpose - Bumrungrad has a reputation for being the top hospital in Thailand - as pointed out - it DOES comp[are favorably with an airport lounge - BUT - I have several accounts from foreign medical workers who have worked there which would indicate that the standard of medicine practiced there is FAR from satisfactory.

This also applies to most of the other International Hospitals - please don%26#39;t be taken in by leather chairs and fish tanks - some of the treatments and Doctors are OK but if you have any problems with the care in these places - and this is quite likely - your chances of any comeback are NIL!

THe training of nuses and auxiliaries is appalling, the knowledge and methodology of some of the doctors is questionable and the arragance and patient communication is stone-age.

DON';T BE FOOLED - BEWARE!!!!

2 luxury home realtors