www.t-globe.com
Vol.1 NO.2 February MMXI
Thailand
Magazine
Wang 270Nam Khiao km away from Bangkok, Switzerland is here
Fill Your Lungs with Love @Grape Gardens The man in our logo:
www.facebook.com/tglobethailand
Mr.T‘s first appearance! t-Globe Thailand Magazine
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Column คอลัมน์ Editor’s Note Hello dear readers, how was your Valentine’s Day? Did you
t-Globe Thailand Magazine Team
show to your lover that you are a perfect couple? And did you take him/her to some of the special places we recommended? You are
.....Editor Adviser..... Rebel Bay Vorapong Vongvarotai
most welcome to share your story with us, t-Globe Thailand Magazine. As 80% of our team is single, it would be great to hear something romantic!
.....Executive Editor Jamree Preechasoonthorn
not unhappy. Simply for the reason that the download of our first issue reached 2,700 hits in 2 weeks!! I have to thank you all, our readers, for this warm welcome.
.....Editor Woramon Sirinoppakul Columnist..... Sasitorn Namngam Nalisara Tangtrongjaisakun Jenjira Ngernroopngam .....Graphic Designer Yada Chinarak .....Photographer..... Dulyavit Phongpiladlux t-Globe Team
t-Globe Thailand Magazine: Ground Floor, 55/531 Muang Thong Thani, Moo 9, Soi 2/2, Chaengwattana Rd., Bangpood, Pakkred, Nonthaburi 11120
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t-Globe Thailand Magazine
Despite most of us do not have BFs or GFs, we are
For this issue, our major destination is “Wang Nam Kiao”,
the Switzerland of Northeastern Thailand. On the road, we invited our beloved Auntie in “Travel Healthy” and Mr. T to be your best friend in “Shopping T(r)ips” for the first time. Along with Mr. T, I’d like to introduce “Oiaum” who is participating with her minimalist, yet splendid drawings.
Apart from what I just mentioned, t-Globe offers you use-
ful and entertaining contents as usual. Don’t wait, don’t hesitate. It’s here…Just Click! Jamree Preechasoonthorn Executive Editor jamree@global-networks-asia.com
For those who like to share any attractive pictures, photos, postcards and so on, please send them to me with some caption. You can always recommend your favorite places and any comments are welcome. All readers are our Honorary Guests!
Contents Vol.1 NO.2 March MMXI
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News
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Destinations Thailand’s winter is gone. Yet there is still a place not
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far away which allows you to dream on: Wang Nam Kiao, the Switzerland of Northeastern Thailand. This oasis for the summer time is just 270 km away from Bangkok!
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Tour-Thai It is quite hot in March. And when it’s hot you’ll want to jump into cold water. So, as usual in Tour-Thai, here we recommend waterfalls from all over Thailand.
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Column คอลัมน์ Next Trip You don’t have any vacation this month? Do you want to make some travel
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plans before you start a journey? We have the answers for you in Next Trip. Shopping T(r)ips
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Meet Mr. T—the man in our t-Globe logo. He will be your good friend when you go shopping for travel products. In this issue Mr. T gives advice how to choose a tent providing a practical checklist – however, you never know you get the right one unless you pitch it by yourself พูดด้วยภาพ
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Travel Healthy Eating grapes is good for your health. But walking in grape gardens is good for
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your eyes, your lungs, your legs and your health. This new column features “Auntie”, an amiable writer who tells you all about the benefits of grape
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Column News t-Globe คอลัมน์ By : t-Globe Team
TAT looks for alliance to boost tourism in the northeastern region. Mr..Apichart Intharapongpan, Northeastern Region Executive Director of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) cited that in order to boost tourism in the northeastern region in 2011, TAT is implementing a project of cooperation entitled “One Office, One Alliance”. The seven TAT offices in the Northeast: Nakhon Ratchasima, Ubon Ratchathani, Udon Thani, Khon Kaen, Nakhon Phanom, Loei and Surin are searching for at least one organization to cooperate together in accomplishing the tourism marketing plans.
Beach and Underwater Clean-Up Day The President and CEO of Ananda Development Co., Ltd, Mr. Chanondddd Ruangkritya, attended the “Beach and Underwater Clean-Up Day” to celebrate the 84th Birthday Anniversary of His Majesty the King, at Kung Krabaen Bay Royal Development Study Center in Chanthaburi. The project, being the CRM (Customer Relationship Management ) and CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) of Ananda Development and Chanthaburi TAT office, included several activities for the customers and the company’s employees. Audiences were united to clean the bay and to observe the unique nature of mangrove forests, guided by an expert of Khung Kraben Bay Royal Development Study Center.
1672 press 3: Andaman Tourism Office Answers TAT, in cooperation with Krabi Provincial Office of Tourism and Sports, launched the “TAT Call Center 1672” service for five provinces located on the Andaman Coast: Krabi, Phangnga, Phuket, Ranong and Trang. The service has been implemented for local tourists as well as for foreigners. Anyone who needs information or has problems while staying in these provinces can call 1672 press 3, available daily from 8 am to 8 pm.
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Fame Tour & Service
is your one stop travel service for Chumphon, Koh Tao and in general all South of Thailand. We offer a central guest house in Chumphon Town, with ample and clean rooms, attached bathroom and hot shower, a restaurant pizzeria where you can get the best of Thai, Italian and International cuisine as well as Car & Bike For Rent and Transportation Services.
Located in the Chumphon Archipelago Marine National park, MT.Resort is the perfect place if you are looking for somewhere quiet and relax to spend your holiday. You can visit the Marine Park, go out for a day trip to the nearby islands and even go for a day trip by LOMPLAYAH High Speed Catamaran to the island of Koh tao 37 miles away.
13 Moo 3, Had Sairee, Amphur Muang, Chumphon 86000 THAILAND Tel: 0 7755 8152-3, 08 9505 2490 Fax: 0 7755 8096 E-mail: mt-resort@hotmail.com
Tourism Thailand
Visit 188/20-21 Sala Deang Road, Amphue Mueang, Chumpon 86000 Tel. 0 7757 1077, Fax. 0 7757 1076 www.chumphon-kohtao.com
THE BEST SAIL ALONG
Mae Ping Lake
h t i w Tongnatee Co.,Ltd.
13 Ratchadaphisek Rd. (Tha Pra-Talad Plu zone) Amphoe Bangkok Yai, Bangkok 10160 Tel: 0 2467 2557, 0 2457 3428 , 0 2457 6873-4 Fax: 0 2457 6875
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Column News t-Globe คอลัมน์ Pattaya Tourist Police handed out red-heart balloons Pol. Maj. Arun Prompan, the head of Pattaya Police Station, Chonburi, was leading tourist policemen and volunteers to distribute red-heart balloons on Valentine’s Day. They also handed out leaflets about the introduction of the station and to promote the 1155 hotline in case of emergency around Walking Street in South Pattaya.
Underwater Wedding Trang Chamber of Commerce, in collaboration with Trang TAT office, Thai Airways and other organizations, held an activity called “Underwater Wedding 2011” on February, 11 to 13 to celebrate the 15th annual Festival of Love. The purpose was to encourage tourism in the region and to advertise the beautiful beaches in Trang— according to the theme “Romantic Destination”.
Tower Sign Safety Zone 76 Provinces Nationwide Mr. Vincent Minard, Managing Director of Total Oil (Thailand) Co., Ltd., along with Dr. Manoon Leechawengwongs, Board Director of Sleepy No Drive under the Royal Patronage of HRH. Princess Galyani Vadhana, attended a fair in accordance with the project “Tower Sign Safety Zone 76 Provinces Nationwide”. He distributed the “Sleepy-prevent-bag to reduce car accidents with Total” to audiences. This fair was held at Loving Giving Bon Marche Market Park, at the same location as the love festival on February 11 to 13. 08
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A secret waiting to be discovered and located only 15 minutes from Koh Tao.
"Nangyuan Island Dive Resort" is the place of tranquility and serenity and is a perfect place to unwind from the rigors of travel, or for the more adventurous a chance to dive into an exciting new experience. Nangyoun Island Dive Resort
46 Moo 1, Koh Tao, Suratthani, Thailand 84280 Tel. +66 (0) 7745 6088-93, +66 (0) 7745 6794-96, +66 (0)8 1958 1766, +66 (0)8 9971 5562 Fax. +66 (0) 7745t-Globe 6088 Thailand Magazine
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Wang 270Nam Khiao km away from B
Column คอลัมน์ Destination
Writer: Sasitorn Namngam
Lingering mist, fresh air, cool mountain breeze, warm sunlight in the morning and twinkling stars at night all this you cannot find in the capital city. Yet you will enjoy it here in “Wang Nam Khiao”, the Switzerland of Northeastern Thailand. 10
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oBangkok, Switzerland is here
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Column คอลัมน์
ang Nam Khiao is a district located in the south of Nakhon Ratchasima. The province, well-known to Thai people as “Korat” or the gate to the Northeast, is the largest province in Thailand. The region is mainly mountainous, so the weather is cool and temperate throughout the year —fairly rainy and misty. The word “Wang Nam” meaning an expanse of deep water and “Khiao” means green color. Hence the place was named at the time when the water was very clear, reflecting the green leaves.
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The reason why Wang Nam Khiao is called “Switzerland of Northeastern Thailand” is its cool weather as well as its stunning landscapes similar to Switzerland. It is a very popular tourist spot for couples particularly to spend a sweet honeymoon. The high season is in winter, starting from November to January. An average temperature between 9 and 18 °C makes it an ideal climate for those who are fond of winter. The mist, quite thick in the morning, help enhance the romantic atmosphere. And there is no need to pay for expensive air tickets to Europe, no need to drive very far, just here in the Northeast, you can find all what you want.
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Column คอลัมน์ By road it is about 270 km from Bangkok to Wang Nam Khiao and the journey takes about 2 to 3 hours. Furthermore, the district offers several kinds of tourism: Health, Eco, Agro and Traditional Tourism (HEAT) as well as chill-out travel such as a relaxing cycle tour in beautiful nature. For your visit to “Thailand’s little Switzerland”, there are some recommended spots that you shouldn’t miss:
Khao Phaengma This scenic area provides an abundance of trees and wild animals. Travelers are advised to go by 4WD or off-road vehicle as the road is unpaved and full of rocks. You can enjoy a relaxing walk on the 1.8 km long nature observation trail on Khao Phaengma. The highlight is a viewpoint situated at the edge of Khao Yai National Park from where you can observe gaurs (wild oxes). If time allows we also highly recommend you to hike through the forest to reach two beautiful waterfalls: Kaeng Yao Waterfall and Wang Heaw Waterfall.
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Pla Kang Canal At the back door of Khao Yai forest is one of the most important viewpoints to observe gaurs in Amphoe Wang Nam Khiao. It is said that gaurs often appear around this canal in recent years. The trek to the gaur observing tower at Pla Kang Canal requires an experienced and skilled tour guide. Your best choice will be the officer of the Foundation for Khao Yai National Park Protection.
Tub Lan National Park The park is situated in both Nakhon Ratchasima and Bupram district, Amphoe Na Di, Prachinburi (take highway 33 until you reach Amphoe Kabinburi, then turn left into highway 304 and continue for 32 km). The most prominent feature of Tub Lan National Park are “Lan” trees—short-stemmed palms with beautiful fan-shaped leaves that can rarely be seen nowadays. The forest consists of approximately 2,240 square kilometers and it is the last natural Lan forest in Thailand. Tourists can visit the forest as well as Tub Lan Waterfall (also called Heo Nokkok Waterfall), Tub Lan Reservoir and Huay Yai Waterfall.
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Column คอลัมน์
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Suanhom Waterfall Located in Tub Lan National Park area, Suanhom Waterfall invites for bird watching, camping and bathing in its cool waters. Accommodation in bungalows and large camping grounds are available for tourists around the entrance area. The water level rises considerably during the rainy season from July to October. From Amphoe Muang Nakhonratchasima, take highway 304 and turn left at KM 79, passing through a market and then continue on a gravel road for about 600 m.
Lam Phra Phloeng Dam This huge reservoir is most suitable for relaxing and it offers a quiet ambiance with beautiful pure air. Containing about 320 million cubic meters of water, tourists can rent a longtail boat to tour the reservoir and to travel to Klong Ki Waterfall and Khunjon Waterfall. Besides that, visitors can join eco-tourism activities in the forest above the dam. Drive along highway 304 (Kabinburi to Pakthongchai) from Nakhonratchasima about 4 km, then turn right at the intersection and continue for 28 km until you reach Lam Phra Phloeng Dam office.
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Column คอลัมน์
The best place for shopping healthy and yummy gifts Looking for gifts from Wang Nam Khiao? Generally, the most popular gifts from here are foodstuffs and fruits, either fresh or dry goods. Exciting shopping spots are at San Jao Pho Market (aka ‘79 km Market’), the district center market that is located around Chao Pho Luang Raj Shrine. The market opens daily at 3 am providing a large variety of goods and gifts such as local foods, healthy vegetables, fruits and many more. Another shopping center is at the entrance of Thai Samakee Sub District Administration Organization. This is the largest shopping center especially regarding local souvenirs. All products, directly delivered from farms, are quality guaranteed.
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Recommended gifts: • Mushroom products: fresh Shitake mushroom, honey mushroom, Eringii Mushroom, mushroom crisp rice, Nam Hed or mushroom pork and many more. • Grape products: fresh grapes (many choices available), grape juice, wine. • Organic vegetables: carrots, cherry tomatoes, red oaks, daylilies, sugar snap peas, Chinese cabbages, and many more fresh vegies for healthy cooking.
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Column คอลัมน์ Contacts • Community Development Volunteer, Wang Mee District (speak to Uncle Auan) Tel. 08 9838 6022 • Tub Lan National Park, Postbox 37, Amphoe Kabinburi, Prachinburi or National Park, Royal Forest Department, Bang Ken, Bangkok Tel. 0 2579 5734, 0 2579 7223
Journey By private car - there are 2 options: 1. From Bangkok, take the route “Ongkharak-Nakhonnayok-Prachinburi” (approximately 200 km). Then turn into Highway 340 at Kabinburi Mai junction and continue for 55 km until you see Chao Pho Shrine Market (79 km Market) of Amphoe Wang Nam Khiao. From here go straight on for approximately 4 km and turn right at KM 59 to Baan Bu Pai Lae Thai Samakkee. Wang Nam Khiao is about 6 km from Highway 340 2. From Nakhon Ratchasima, take the route “Pak Thongchai - Wang Nam Khiao” along Highway 340 for 80 km. After you pass Amphoe office and Wangnamkheaw Hospital, turn left at KM 59 to Baan Bu Pai Lae Thai Samakkee. Wang Nam Khiao is located 6 km from Highway 340. By bus There is no direct bus to Amphoe Wang Nam Khiao. Therefore, tourists have to change bus in Kabinburi. By van A van to Wang Nam Khiao leaves daily from Victory Monument (near Rajavithi Hospital). It runs hourly from 6am to 7pm. The van stops at the main road to Wang Nam Khiao. Here you change the bus if you want to go to Khao Phaengma.
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Cycle tours For those who love bicycles, Thai Cycling for Health Association (Wang Nam Khiao Cycling Club) presents four “Routes of Ozone” for your healthy choice:
Wang Nam Khiao – Eroteung Viewpoint Mun River nature observing
Start: Thai Samakee Sub-district Administration Organization Interesting Spots: Mun River – nature observing all along the river Recommended for: Nature lovers (experience cyclists) Length: 45 km (or 30 km, if you drive by car to Pha Kheb Tawan or Sunset Cliff, then cycle from there to the road at Mun River) Route details: Non- asphalt road and up & downhill
Suanhom Route
Start: 79 km Market or Suksomboon Village Interesting Spots: Suanhom Waterfall, enjoying the nature and the local life style Recommended for: All mountain bikers Length: 7km from 79 km Market, or 25 km from Suksomboon Village Route details: smooth concrete road (start from 79 km Market) / non-asphalt road (start in Suksomboon Village)
Start: At Thai Samakee Sub-district Administration Organization Interesting Spots: Lum Chiang Sa Dam, Eroteung Viewpoint, ancient scree with thousandyear paintings, rubber garden and ancient cactus Recommended for: Those who like challenges, either amateur or professional Length: 75 km (or up to cyclist) Route details: Asphalt road 60%, non- asphalt road 40% / uphill 70%, downhill 30%
Thai Samakee Sub-district Administration Organization – Suksomboon Village
Start: Thai Samakee Sub-district Administration Organization Interesting Spots: Suksomboon Reservoir— beautiful nature that is home to colorful lotuses, dragonflies, butterflies and birds Recommended for: All kind of cyclists and families Length: 20 km Route details: Asphalt road 60%, non- asphalt road 40% / smooth road 50%, up & downhill 50%
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Column คอลัมน์
A Wangnamkeaw Village
Resort in Bali style, surrounded by mountains and vegetable farms. Room rates from 1,500 to 4,500 Baht. Tel. 08 0049 5522 or visit www.wangnamkeawvillage.com
Veravian Resort
Modern resort in well-preserved natural surroundings. Amenities include coffee shops, restaurants, bars and other facilities. Room rates from 2,500 to 5,000 Baht. Tel. 08 3111 5678, 08 3111 6789 or visit www.veravian.com
Greenway Forest View
A newly built resort surrounded by majestic hills. Lush green landscapes wrapped in the morning mist awaiting you after a night of basking in the moonlight. Tents start at 350 Baht per night, rooms from 800 Baht. Tel. 0 3652 2278 or visit www.greenwayforestview.com
Baan Phu Luang
Here you can choose between four options of accommodation: Grand Suite, Sunrise Suite, Montana Suite and Terrace Suite. The houses are well-decorated and equipped with all kind of facilities. Prices range from 800 to 40,000 Baht. Tel. 08 6105 4008, 08 9062 7276 or visit www.baanphuluang.com
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Accommodation Wang Poo Mhork
Situated in the mountains, this homestay offers misty landscape and beautiful views. The bungalows are located in an educational area of organic agriculture which is one of the royal projects. Tents start at 250 Baht per night, rooms are 1,000 Baht, Tel. 08 1265 5665 or visit www.wangpoomhork.com
Montana Resort
Resort in relaxing atmosphere surrounded by mountains. Tents from 250 Baht for one person including breakfast, rooms from 2,000 Baht. Tel. 08 1760 5544
@ Le Kool Resort
Modern resort featuring a refreshing pure ozone environment. Restaurant serving fresh coffee and steaks. Tents start at 300 Baht per person, rooms for 2,000 Baht. Tel. 08 4455 0770, 08 9815 1818 or visit www.lekoolresort.com
First Love @ Wang Nam Khaio
Closer to nature more than ever in this camping-style resort. Barbecues, steaks and cool draft beer are available. Tents from 500 Baht per person including breakfast and dinner. Tel. 08 9994 2413, 08 9216 9088
Baan Suan Phum Tawan
This private resort offers a relaxing and peaceful atmosphere. It is an ideal place for families and seminars as well as for couples. Tents from 300 Baht—maximum 10 people. Room rates are from 1,000 to 4,000 Baht. Tel. 08 1440 0995, 08 1913 1299
แหล่งข้อมูล
www.wnk.go.th, www.wangnamkheo.com, www.wangnamkeowdd.com, www.วังน้ำ�เขียว.net t-Globe Thailand Magazine
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Column คอลัมน์ Tour-Thai By : t-Globe Team
Shady trees, green rocks, fresh air and the sound of water rushing down the cliffs; these natural combinations create the atmosphere of waterfalls that make them very pleasant and attractive. Thais love to go to waterfalls; we splash around, hike and enjoy a picnic together. Therefore, waterfalls are one of our popular travel spots. Surprisingly, the four parts of Thailand offer many waterfalls - as “Tour-Thai” would like to recommend you!
Sweet Northeast
Wang Tao Waterfall: The River Head of the Mun River.
Located in Tub Lan National Park, Sankampang Mountain in Nakhon Ratchasima, Wang Tao Waterfall is the head of the Mun River. It is known that Amphoe Khonburi, the district of Wang Tao Waterfall, is home to the sources of three rivers called “Sam Ngam” (trident). The source of the Mun River feeds Kang Nam Ton (Ton Cataract), Wang Tam Waterfall, Wang Manao Waterfall, all of them join together in Lam Mun Bon Dam, Johm Thong Beach. Another source is “Lam Sae” Dam, feeding several river basins such as Wang Pai, Wang Yao, Subped, Wang Pae. And the last one is “Lam Mas”, the source of Lam Mas Dam.
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Up North
Closer to nature @Poi Waterfall
This beautiful waterfall is situated at the village of Pak Nam Poi, Amphoe Wang Thong. It is fed by the Kek River flowing through the Petchaboon Mountains. Poi Waterfall has many rocks and smaller cliffs, dropping down about 20 meters. Shady trees around the waterfall provide nice spots for tourists to relax and to have a picnic. Apart from that, visitors can see the Khao Kra Yang Forest Plants that are under the supervision of Forest Industry Organization. You can either walk or ride a bicycle to appreciate the beauty of nature and take an educational tour of the plants. Poi waterfall can be visited all year round, yet the best period is from January to April because the water is clear and the current is less strong.
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Column คอลัมน์
Down South
La Ong Rung Waterfall: The Mixture of sunshine and slight spray
La Ong Rung Waterfall (or the Rainbow Waterfall) is located in the lush green rainforest, in Bang Lang National Park, situated between Amphoe Thanto and Amphoe Betong, Yala. It consists of four tiers. Tourists can walk all the way from level one to four (only about 200 meters). The most prominent feature of the place is a is a special effect when the waterfall drops from level four to the pond and its spray is being reflected by the sun, creating an amazing rainbow. Accordingly, the name “La Ong Rung” means “Rainbow Spray”.
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For travelers who love hiking, Soi Dao waterfall in Khao Soi Dao Wildlife Sanctuary, Chanthaburi, is an attractive option. The spot is quite hard to reach, first you have to go by car for 2.5 km and then you walk for another 2 km. Nevertheless, the magnificent 16-tiers waterfall is worth hiking for. From level one to nine, tourists can enjoy walking and climbing on their own. Besides the beautiful scenery there are beautiful butterflies and plants all along the way. However, for trekking from level ten to sixteen, which takes about one hour, you have to be guided by the sanctuary officer. Accommodation is available in tourist houses or on large camping grounds.
On the Coast of the Gulf of Thailand
Climb up high, to see the waterfall @Khao Soi Dao
Source: www.thaisabuy.com t-Globe Thailand Magazine
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Column เพื ่อนเที่ยว คอลัมน์ By: Mr. T
Photo : Oiaum
Mr. T is a good friend when go shopping for travel products. He is experienced, sharing good advices and creates checklists to make sure you get the right thing.
Tent
Pick A
Do you think over and over again when you intend to buy a house? If yes, the same applies for buying a tent. You cannot know whether a tent is effective unless you use it. So don’t make a quick decision only by seeing photos-try to see the tent in person if possible. To make sure that you select the right one, here is a checklist from which you should not overlook even one single bullet point!
Size
think of the number of people in your family including yourself and the friends you often travel with. You will have to squeeze in if the tent is too small. However, if it’s too big, it’ll be harder to pitch.
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Space Zip
what you have to do when you choose a tent is: get inside, stand up, sit or lie down and imagine the gear arrangement (both yours and from others!).
the zip has to open and close freely without catching the fabric. Besides, the pull tab should be easy to find especially in the dark. Check the zip on your door as it’s not supposed to create any gaps when closed.
Ventilation
as you will sleep inside for hours, it should have enough windows to let the air circulate.
Waterproof
most tents are waterproofed nowadays, at least the good ones. Yet your choice of tent also depends on the weather conditions. If you are going to be camping in an area of heavy rain buy a high quality tent.
Packing
certainly it should be easy to carry, considering the weight and size of the packed tent. However, if you usually travel by car, then a good tent for you can also be more heavy.
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Column คอลัมน์
Pitching
some tents need more than one person to pitch, others can be set up just by yourself but will take a lot of time. The best way is try to pitch and pack it, so you get to know how to do it and how long it will take.
ฟันธงเลือกเต็นท์ไหนไปแล้ว ขอให้เป็นเต็นท์คู่ใจ ใช้ได้ไปนานๆ นะคะ J
Travel Taste
every single camper has its own taste. The taste is an indicator for the kind of tent you want, what kind of accessories and so on. You can mainly choose between A-frame tents, dome tents and cabin tents.
Costs
this is definitely the most important factor! (LOL) A tent is not something you can use in daily life. And tents also have a limited life expectancy as they are treated with waterproofing chemicals. If you don’t go camping often, a better and cheaper option is to borrow or to rent one. Moreover, if it’s your first time camping, you should borrow a tent and try the practical use.
My last tip is to bring along some experienced companions when you go shopping. Their knowledge and attitude will help you to decide more precisely.
Whatever tent you choose, I hope you will have 30
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a great trip! ^^
Lost For Words
” e c n e r e f f i “Same D Location: Doi Chang, Chiang Rai Photographer: Isaree Meekwamdee
For those who have attractive pictures, photos, postcard etc. to share, please send them to team@globe.com with some caption. Do not keep them only to yourself, since sometimes to “see” is better than to “say”.
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ColumnHealthy Travel คอลัมน์ By Auntie
Fill Your Lungs with Love @G
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Grape Gardens
Since the cover story features Wang Nam Khiao, the region with Switzerland-like weather and romantic atmosphere, I’d like to recommend another tourist attraction in Khorat: Grape Gardens. (Note for Farangs: Khorat is the nickname given by Thais to Nakhon Ratchasima Province - the district of Wang Nam Khiao and lots of grape gardens are situated here)
Located in a highland and adjoining Khao Yai National Park, the weather in Amphoe Pak Chong and Amphoe Wang Nam Khiao is cool throughout the year —ideal for grape gardens. Both districts have become a popular destination especially for couples. Imagine you and your lover, hand in hand, walking along the gardens on a beautiful day. Soft sunlight shining through lush vegetation with heavy bunches of grapes hanging from its branches…oh, what a romantic moment. (Note for those who are tired of corny phrases: Okay, I’m an old maid. Just give me a little space to dream!)
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Column คอลัมน์ Furthermore, apart from visual appreciation and recreation, grape gardens provide a shop offering delicious fresh grapes and tourists can also pick grapes during harvest season – from March until the end of summer. Some gardens even have their own restaurant presenting creative menus with grapes or tasty dishes to enjoy with a glass of wine! (Note for travelers: for more information, call Khorat TAT Office: 0 4421 3030, 0 4421 3666, for men searching for soul mates, call me!)
Sour Grapes, Sweet Nutrition If the fox in Aesop’s fable had been able to reach the grapes, it would have found out that the grapes were indeed sour – as it despised them! Just kidding. There are both sweet and sour tastes. But in my experience, dear fox, fresh grapes from these gardens are mostly sour even when kept in a refrigerator for days. I’m glad to say that the sourer, the richer in Vitamin C and K. Besides that, grapes contain natural sugar: fructose, glucose and sucrose as well as iron and calcium. Grapes help to avoid blood clotting, reduce coughs and pain in the joints. The leaves are edible as well (one of my favorite menu in grape gardens is fried chicken wrapped in grape leaves!) Grape leaves and vine are rich in healing properties, among others they help with urination, reduce edema, heal conjunctivitis and abscess. However, please consider this warning and take my advice: grapes have a high energetic value and are considered to be ‘hot’ in their nutritious properties. Excessive eating can lead to aphthous ulcers, sore throats or coughs, sometimes constipation. Grape skin is hard to digest. Therefore, if you have a weak digestive system or flatulence you should not eat grapes. Or, if you really want to eat, the solution is very easy: peel them!
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Source: travel.sanook.com/trip/trip_09796.php www.doctor.or.th/node/6093 t-Globe Thailand Magazine
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ColumnTripsคอลัมน์ Next
Tourist Street @Betong, Ya La
April 2011
To support Tourism Business and introduce good image of the province, Ya La provincial office presents the Tourist Street on Betong district. There will be branches of local food stores, light and sound performance, youth music contest, OTOPs shopping sprees as well as the exhibition of Betong history.
Pattaya International Music Festival
March 18 to 20, 2554
The Pattaya International Music Festival is an annual festival and has been very popular for music lovers in recent years. There are various stages, and the streets filled with merchants, food vendors, games and ample dance area’s with the latest in lighting and sound, featuring some of Asia’s best DJ’s. For more information, call TAT Chonburi office: 0 3842 3990, 0 3842 7667.
The Kesa-Ngams Art Exhibition
March to April, 2011
The Kesa-Ngams is an artist family and has been working in art field for more than 40 years as one of the Huahin Artist Group. Their works features drawings, Thai paintings and modern arts. The exhibition is holding at Baan Sillapin HuaHin, for more information call 0 3253 4830.
Chumphon Marine Invitation 2011
March 18 to 20, 2554
Chumphon Marine Invitation 2011 is the festival features many activities. You can enjoy diving and cleaning under the sea, grow mangrove forest and attend water sports or photo contest. There are also seafood shops, “Music On the Beach” stage and many more. For more information call TAT Chumphon office: 077 502775-6 or visit facebook.com/tat.chumphon
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Chanthaburi Khitchakut mountain Annual Festival
Today until April 4, 2554
Chanthaburi Khitchakut mountain Annual Festival is very popular for either locals or tourists. It is believed that to pay respect to the Buddha’s footprint here will bring prosperity and luck. For more information, call Khitchakut National Park: 0 2579 0529, 0 2579 4842
Poi Sang Long @Mae Hong Son
April 2011
Poi Sang Long is the tradition of Buddhist ordination to be a novice. The ceremony is seen mostly in Mae Hong Son, especially in Amphoe Pai and Amphoe Mueang Mae Hong Son on April. You can also observe local people called Thai Yai traditions. For more information, call Mae Hong Son Municipality: 0 5361 2016.
International Krabi Rock Climbing
April, 2011
Krabi Tourism Business Association and Hotel, in cooperation with other organizations in the province, is holding the International Krabi Rock Climbing to publicize adventure tourism. Since Krabi is full of climbing facilities and great cliffs, the Association aims to introduce the province as one of Rock Climbing Destinations.
Culture fair for Phuket – Phang Nga Relation
April 11 to 13, 2554
To inherit and revive old tradition for Phuket and Phang Nga, the two provinces will hold the Culture fair located in 2 places: Sarasin Bridge, Tha Noon Bank, Phang Nga and Chatchai Bank, Phuket.
Song Kran Festival @Ranong
April 13 to 15, 2554
TAT southern office, in cooperation with Ranong provincial office and other organizations, will hold the Mineral Song Kran Festival in Raksavarin Park, Wat Ram Poeng (Tapotaram). The festival’s purpose is to publicize hot spring and mineral water to international medical tourism
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