As a beginner to triathlon, you probably have a lot of questions. The best advice I have for a beginner’s first triathlon is to take it easy and to have a good time – it’s not brain surgery and should be fun.

Here are seven tips for the triathlon beginner:

1. For beginners, triathlon training should be targeted to a shorter distance race – almost always a sprint triathlon. Sometimes you can even find a beginner triathlon advertised in your area. Today races fill up pretty quick, so pick a race and sign up now (this will also give you a goal race to keep you committed).

2. Come up with a triathlon training plan. There are some great beginner triathlon training plans available on the web.

3. Triathlon beginners usually need to work on their swimming. So the next step is to find a pool where you can train. If you can find one with a swim coach or masters swimming program that is ideal. Otherwise, try to get a more experienced triathlete or certified triathlon coach to help. You’ll find several additional swimming tips here on my site.

4. Beginner triathlon training mileage should be reasonable. You will be tempted to over train at the beginning, especially if you are already a strong athlete. Try to resist the temptation. Triathlon beginners should work on their weakest event the most, and just make sure they can finish the other events. You can build speed after you finish your first race.

5. Practice your transitions, but don’t go overboard. A beginner triathlon bike leg transition is especially good to practice by doing a few “brick” workouts – where you complete a bike workout and then go for a run before you cool down. But take it easy. Just make sure you have all your triathlon gear ready and that you know how you plan to get it on and off in the transition area. That is plenty of preparation for your first triathlon.

6. Listen to pre-race instructions carefully and ask questions if you have them. Everyone was a triathlon beginner once, so don’t be embarrassed to ask questions. It seems like almost every triathlon has some slightly different setup, so even professionals have to ask questions about things like where to rack a bike, how to get from the swim area to the bikes, where the bike dismount area is and other details. If you have questions, ask.

7. Relax and enjoy your first triathlon. Don’t forget to have fun during the intensity of the race. Take pride in the fact that you reached your goal. If you have any challenges (the most common are mechanical problems on the bike) just remember that this is your first race. Remind yourself that you are just “learning the ropes” – don’t add performance pressure until you have first proven to yourself that you can do it.

If you follow these seven tips you’ll have a great first triathlon – and be on your way to going from a “beginner triathlete” to a “competitive” one.

http://www.coach-janet.com Triathlon Coach Janet Wilson is a USAT certified triathlon coach and ACE certified personal trainer. Janet is an accomplished and nationally-ranked amateur triathlete and she coaches triathletes of all skill levels, from a triathlon beginner to Hawaii Ironman qualifiers. To learn more about triathlon training, swim tips, coaching programs or just great tips on how to stay in shape visit her website at http://www.coach-janet.com

Author: Janet Wilson
Article Source: EzineArticles.com

When it comes to picking and choosing a hotel, it all comes down to location, location, location. In the city of Bangkok, the Sukhumvit district is simply all about that, location. When you stay here, you’re staying in the heart of Bangkok. Sukhumvit district is an upscale area where many well to do Thais and foreign expats make their home. Soon followed the posh shops, super department stores and excellent clubs and bars that cater to some of Bangkok’s wealthy citizens.

There are two red light districts in the Sukhumvit area as well and are connected by Sukhumvit road. They are called Nana and Soi Cowboy. Both are just a short 10 to15 minute walk from each other and vice versa. In Sukhumvit is also where you’ll find some of the best clubs and discos in Bangkok.So as you can figure out by now this area is a very populararea to stayinfor visitors from all over the world.

Booking a hotel in Sukhumvit district brings a lot of distinct advantages tovacationers to Bangkok.There isa train system call the BTS Sky Train that runs above Sukhumvit road.The Sky Train has several stations inSukhumvit and and it’ll taketravelers to about 70% of the major attractions in Bangkok.It’sfast, easy, cheap and most importantly well air conditioned in Bangkok’s often hot and humid client.There are loads of other transportation alternatives in the Sukhumvit area such as taxis and tuk tuks.

Hotels in the Sukhumvit district vary greatly in price. There are no super cheap accommodations, but you can get a pretty good local hotel for around $40 US dollars, and the rates include a buffet breakfast. Lots of well known international business hotels are also found on Sukhumvit road such as JW Marriott, Westin and Sheraton. These hotels cost more but are still affordable compared to western standards.

The good news is you don’t have to spend a whole lot of money to stay in a great hotel room in Bangkok. Many popularBangkok hotels along Sukhumvit can be had between $40USD – $60USD, which is considered in the budget range. Hotels with these ratesmay include guest access to swimming pools, saunas and a fitness center. About 95% of the hotels in Sukhumvit also include free daily breakfast in their rates too. Below you will find the names of some very popular and affordable hotels in Sukhumvit Bangkok.

Top 5 Hotels in Sukhumvit Bangkok:

1. Woraburi Sukhumvit Hotel & Resort
2. Grand President Hotel
3. Dawin Bangkok Hotel
4. Aspen Suites
5. Salil Hotel

Here’s one final tip that you may find very helpful. When you check in to the hotel, it’s best to dress as nicely as possible. Don’t come in wearing a tank top and shorts with flip flops. Thai people see well dressed guest as someone who is higher up in the social order. The higher you look in the social order, the more respect and extra attention you’ll get. Even casual wear goes a long way. Dressing well may surprise you with a room upgrade.

For more information about the hotels mentioned here visit Sukhumvit Bangkok Hotel Reviews. You will also find list of popular hotels in the area.

Edwin M. Clark is a business consultant who travels to Southeast Asia, specifically to Thailand for over 8 years. His experience and knowledge in the region has provided valuable information and resources for business ventures and mid range to major corporations in the travel industry.

Author: Edwin M Clark
Article Source: EzineArticles.com

One of the most frequent questions posed by beginner triathletes at the store is “What type of apparel should I wear for my training or for my races?”. Although the question sounds simple enough, a chapter of a triathlon book can be devoted to this one topic. When determining what type of apparel to wear for training or for races, one should ask the following questions:

What are the distances of the races in which I will be competing?

What type of workouts will I be doing during training (i.e. bike-run brick workouts, individual swimming workouts, swim-bike brick workouts, individual run only workouts, individual cycling only workouts)?

Triathlon Apparel for Racing

In response to the first question, it is important to contemplate what apparel to wear based on the distance of the race in which you are competing. For sprint and Olympic distance triathlons, the distances are short enough for men and women that they can wear a triathlon short that has minimal padding and no pockets. For a top, it is recommended to wear a tighter fitting singlet or tank top for men or a “racerback” or tankini top for women. To minimize drag in the water while swimming, a tighter, skin fitting top will typically result in better times as opposed to a looser fitting top which can create more drag and retain more water.

For men and women who do not like to race in shorts and a top, a one-piece triathlon suit is also ideal in sprint and Olympic distance triathlons. A one-piece triathlon suit is usually very snug and should fit in such a way that you will feel extremely hydrodynamic during your swim. If your one-piece suit feels too loose, it will probably result in drag while swimming and it is more likely to make your suit balloon up” with water.

For men, a one-piece triathlon suit will often have a front zipper which comes in handy when it feels too hot. Simply pulling the zipper down a few inches can provide some much needed ventilation. For women, a one-piece triathlon suit sometimes comes equipped with a built in support bra which will allow for also pulling the zipper down to allow for ventilation.

In Ironman and full Ironman distance races, while the triathlete has the same options as listed above (shorts and a top or a one-piece suit), it may be wiser to go with a separate top and a separate bottom. If you are a pro or elite triathlete and you are finishing your or full Ironman distance in warp speed times, a simple flip of the coin may make your decision.

For the age group triathlete who may be out on the course for a much longer time, wearing a one-piece triathlonsuit can cause problems if nature calls and you find yourself in the porta-john half way through your run. While it may sound simple just to pull down your suit and “do what you have to do”, it is much harder to do this when your body is cramping and when you are battling other physical challenges during your race. Because of this issue alone, it is a good idea for age groupers to opt for a separate pair of triathlon shorts and a separate top during a or full Ironman.

Additionally, a triathlon short with more padding and a looser fitting jersey as opposed to a tighter fitting top (used in a sprint or Olympic distance triathlon) are also recommended. Most looser fitting jerseys also have one or even more pockets which are very useful for stashing gels or other essentials that are needed when on the bike or during the run.

Training

Due to the fact that a vast array of triathlon training sessions exist, the type of apparel needed for training varies compared to apparel needed for race day. bike-run brick workouts, individual swimming workouts, swim-bike brick workouts, individual run only workouts, individual cycling only workouts

Bike-run brick workouts

Depending on how long your brick is, this will determine what type of apparel to wear. For shorter bike-run brick workouts (similar to sprint or Olympic distance races), men and women should develop a comfort level with their apparel and simulate race day conditions. With that said, a one-piece tri suit or a triathlon short with minimal padding are ideal. Since it is training, although the tighter top would simulate race day conditions, a looser fitting top is also fine for training. On the contrary, if the bike-run brick workout is considerably longer (in preparation for a or full Ironman), a triathlon short with more padding and a looser fitting jersey are ideal.

Individual swimming workouts

For workouts that will only require swimming, the location of the swim will dictate what type of apparel to wear. If the swim is at a chlorinated pool, one should consider using a swim jammer that contains chlorine resistant fabric (i.e. TYR or Speedo jammers for men and TYR or Speedo Swimsuits for women). Unfortunately, although triathlon shorts and triathlon tops can handle swims in open water, they are really not made to endure chlorine. Consequently, one is much more likely toextend the lifeof his or her triathlon apparel by not using it for pool swimming (and using it much more for bike and run training).

If the swim workouts are in open water, triathlon shorts and tops can be used, but it is recommended to rinse out your clothes soon after your workout is completed.

Swim-bike brick workouts

For swim-bike brick workouts, the length of the training will dictate what type of apparel to wear. If the workout is in preparation for a sprint or Olympic distance triathlon, a one-piece triathlon suit or a separate top and bottom with minimal padding is ideal. For a longer brick, a triathlon short with more padding will be sufficient.

Individual run workouts

For those days when you will only be running, you can pretty much wear anything that your heart desires. For men, regular traditional running shorts along with a looser fitting dry fit t-shirt or tank top will suffice. If you have become so used to using your triathlon shorts, knock yourself out and go with the triathlon shorts. For women, traditional running shorts (or tights/knickers) and a crop top, tank top, etc. will usually do the trick.

Individual cycling workouts

For those days when you will only be cycling, the possibilities are endless. For men and women, a well padded cycling short (or even a triathlon short with minimal padding if you are conditioned enough to not need the extra padding) and a comfortable jersey (sleeveless, short sleeve, or long sleeve if the weather is cool enough).

All in all, when it comes to deciding what type of apparel to wear for training and racing, several factors can affect a triathlete’s decision. As with anything in the world of sports, it is important to develop a comfort level with your apparel during training and as often as your schedule permits, simulate race day conditions so that come race day, apparel will not be a cause for worry.

Roy Lazarus – Trivillage.com Customer Service

If you are currently looking for triathlon apparel (or cyling or running apparel), send an e-mail to customerservice@trivillage.com or call 866-874-2525 to communicate with a customer service representative who can assist you in answering your apparel questions. If you purchase apparel from Trivillage.com, you can try the apparel on at home, and if it does not feel like the right fit, you have 45 days from the date of receipt to return the apparel for a full credit to your credit card on file.

Check out the great selection of triathlon apparel on Trivillage.com by visiting the following link: http://www.trivillage.com/apparel.html

Author: Roy Lazarus
Article Source: EzineArticles.com

In many ways than one Sukhumvit is the face of modern Bangkok. It is not only one of the longest roads in Thailand, but one of the longest roads in the world. Towards the west end you have Ploenchit Road and Rama I Road, but to the east it runs most of the way to the Cambodian border.

The fleshpots of Nana and Soi Cowboy are also just off Sukhumvit, as are plenty of more (or less) salubrious bars. Also, the sidewalks of Sukhumvit itself become a huge market carrying everything from luggage to fake Rolex watches, and then after midnight they turn into sidewalk cafes and bars.Sukhumvit offers some of the best dining in Bangkok, From 5 star dining to street carts, The variety of choices and taste are almost overwhelming.

Some of the major attractions in Sukhumvit are Siam Square- which could be termed Bangkok’s Time’s square and the Jim Thompson house which is named a former CIA operative and houses a quality silk store that was founded by him, the house was crafted from six traditional Thai style houses. Erawan Shrine is a small but interesting place to visit and visitors can also see traditional Thai dancing during the day.

Sukhumvit being the modern face of Bangkok is a great place to go shopping or to dine out. A number of shopping malls and plazas can b e found dotted all over the Sukhumvit road and offer items ranging from modern electronics to traditional Thai souvenirs. There is a huge selection of places to eat in practically every cuisine in the world is represented, you can sample some of the best Japanese, Lebanese, or Indian food you will ever eat.

To explore Sukhumvit Road fully and to enjoy its nightlife it’s advisable for travelers to spend a few nights in the area. A number of Bangkok Sukhumvit apartments can be found and are a much more reliable and safe option than staying in small guest houses. Bangkok serviced apartments usually offer guests are host of facilities and are as convenient and comfortable as a hotel.

Naveen Marasinghe is an Online Marketing Executive at eMarketingEye which is a search engine marketing company that offers integrated Internet marketing services and specializes in hotel Internet marketing industry.

Author: Naveen Marasinghe
Article Source: EzineArticles.com

You don’t have to spend thousands of dollars to be able to perform your best in a triathlon competition. You might be riding the best equipments and gears in the world but without enough strength, training and willingness to outdo everybody else, your investment may be worth nothing.

Aside from the entry ticket, you are sure to finish the race with a great sense of achievement at a minimal cost and lots of hard work.

For starters, verging into a triathlon competition is really a task. After all, the same is true for the triathlon warriors. So anything worth starting with will do. You need not punch holes in your pockets for a new bike, it is best to test the waters first. You might spend a grand on the latest gears only to find out later that triathlon is not your stuff. Make do with what you have first and later decide if triathlon lifestyle is truly yours to live.

The bike stage takes most of the course in a triathlon race. This is the make it or break it ground. The edge you have earned earlier with the swim stage would mean nothing if you tarry on the second leg of the race. The easiest option you can choose is to play with the crowd and stick with them if you can’t get over them.

With this idea in mind, you can rest assured that the best training you may have is group training. There are regular weekend bikers that will help you get better. You may practice on your own but crowded biking is different from solo biking.

What’s good with these folks is that they understand the techniques of training and so if you are a beginner, you’ll be given the advantage of benefiting from those that will give allowances for trainees like themselves. But beware, training in this manner will cause you to react in two ways- to find your comfort zone or to bring out the best from you by encouraging you to be like the best of them. Nevertheless, they may still pass on some tips that will better your game. Like with swimming, you may get the kicks of the person swimming in front of you but that way, you will be trained.

Triathlon biking may look like plain biking at first sight but when we incorporate the principles of aerodynamics and endurance in it, then we can say it is a different story.

Low Jeremy has been writing articles for a number of years now. He contributes informative articles on various topics like health, interior design and product reviews for websites. His latest contribution can be found over at http://www.largepictureframes.net where he share tips on choosing large picture frames and other interior design ideas.

Author: Low Jeremy
Article Source: EzineArticles.com

Overview

Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, is a wonderful blend of rich Siam heritage and modernity. The city feels enormous, and both its crowdedness and its intricate system of bus, train, and metro routes add to that effect. Bangkoks commercial district, Sukhumvit, and the citys center, Siam Square, are filled with malls, department stores, restaurants, and high-rise buildings. South of Sukhumvit is Silom, a financial district by day and, by night, a popular place for drinking and clubbing. North of Silom is Rattanakosin. Bordering the Chao Phraya River, Rattanakosin is the home of the Grand Palace, Wat Po, Khao San Road, and the National Museum. West of the river is Thonburi, a fantastic destination for its intricate systems of canals and displays of historic buildings. North of Thonburi is Phahonyothin, the location of the Chatuchak Weekend Market.

Sightseeing Attractions

If you only take the time on your Bangkok vacation for one sightseeing experience, youll want to venture to the Grand Palace, the home of the countrys largest and most alluring temple, Wat Phra Kaeo. The National Museum is another worthwhile experience, showcasing a wide range of Thai and Buddhist art and sculpture and a display of royal funeral chariots. To experience a bit of Thai culture, check out the alms giving ceremony at Wat Benjamabophit. It is there that saffron-robed monks line up before the marble temple to receive the ritual offerings of food, drink, and sundries.

Nightlife

Of all of the Asias cities, Bangkok may be the best as far as shopping is concerned. Of course, there are the typical malls of Sukhumvit; however, Bangkok is also a fantastic place to purchase an original Thai souvenir. The Chatuchak Weekend Market in Phahonyothin is enormous, offering six thousand stalls and a mystifying array of fabrics, woks, jewelry, food, animals, ceramics, and more. The Chinatown street markets are another great area for shopping for odd gifts and also home to the worlds largest solid-gold Buddha. Sukhumvit and Khao San roads are great places for dining, offering both Thai and international dish choices. For a night on the town, check out Silom and experience the stretch of go-go bars at Patpong.

Relaxation Attractions

Take a day to tour the city on one of Thonburis canal boats. Some tours will even take you down the river, offering a brief glimpse of the citys five temples. Bangkok is also crawling with spas, from the luxury spas found in every five star hotel to the independent spas scattered around the city to the corner massage shops found in the citys center and around Chinatown.

Jessica Elliott is a freelance writer for Directory of Hotels.com Hip Cool Hotels. For travel to this region, she recommends staying at any one of these fine boutique hotels in Bangkok.

Author: Jessica Elliott
Article Source: EzineArticles.com

Getting into any triathlon transition program may require buying a triathlon bike, or for those bargain shoppers, a used triathlon bike, or bikes.

Used triathlon bikes, like most other fitness training equipment, can probably be found at huge discounts, up to 50 percent off the original suggested retail price, at used bike stores who offer used triathlon bikes.

First off, it is important to defining a triathlon bike. A triathlon bike is not unlike any other road bike in that it is suitable for all long distance riding.

A triathlon bike is all about comfort and efficiency, and even looks like many ten-speed road bikes found in bike shops.

The key to finding the best in used triathlon bikes is research.

There are a number of outfits on the Internet that sell used triathlon bikes. But it may be helpful for you to try out a few at your local bike shop first.

Getting a handle on the best used triathlon bikes for you first, before buying one on the Internet at a good price is a good way to go.

Knowing what you want and what you can afford are the keys to shopping for used triathlon bikes.

Used triathlon bikes can be completely refurbished and become a great tool for anyone making their triathlon transition.

On the other hand, there are some used triathlon bikes that may not be refurbished and could cause serious problems for the triathlon trainer.

Do your homework.

Talk to some who have purchased used triathlon bikes, try them out and look on line as well.

Find more at Used Triathlon Bikes. Do you have what you need to improve your workouts and your races and click over to Mike Herman’s site Gear4Triathlons.com

Author: Mike Herman
Article Source: EzineArticles.com

Approximate flying times: From New York: 17 hrs. From Chicago: 22 hrs 30 mins. From LA: 19 hrs 25 mins.

If New York is the city that never sleeps, forget the alarm clock. Bangkok, Thailands capital city, comes a very close second. The city was founded in 1782 by the first monarch of the present Chakri Dynasty. Today its the country’s spiritual, commercial and educational hub, home to approximately ten million people or more than 10% of the Thai population.

City of contrasts and confusion.

Bangkok (or Krung Thep in Thai which means city of angels”) is an exciting, high energy melting pot of east meets west. A dynamic city that has embraced technology and modern living with its busy expressways, bold skyscrapers and designer-filled shopping malls. Yet underneath it all, it remains a traditional haven of culture, history and time-honored customs, where elders are respected and family always comes first.

As you travel from the airport youll see plenty of examples of modern architecture dotting the city scape and amongst them all, standing proud, are glittering Buddhist Wats (temples) such as Wat Phra Kaew and The Grand Palace. Snaking through the concrete jungle, youll spy echoes of the old Bangkok below you ancient canals and waterways that are well worth exploring on a boat trip.

Every Thai household and building, even the most modern, has a traditional spirit house built outside for good fortune and to honor the spirit of the land. Each day, small offerings of fruit and water are laid out, often with garlands of orchids. If youre an early riser, keen to make the most of your vacation time in Bangkok, dont be surprised when you see Buddhist monks in saffron robes making their morning alms rounds accepting food and donations from local people, young and old.

Some like it hot, but not all the time.

Thailand has a tropical climate with an annual average temperature of around 75 to 92 degrees Fahrenheit, so pack light clothing for your trip. Natural fibers are often more comfortable when youre walking and touring in hot weather. Practically everywhere you go in Bangkok youll find you some relief from the heat, with blasts of icy cold air conditioning in shops and hotels.

From March to May its the hottest time, with the highest temperatures and humidity. From June to October is monsoon season, so remember to take an umbrella. November to February is cooler and less humid. Bear in mind that the monsoon season varies throughout the country and can affect the weather you experience.

Bangkok Hotels to match every budget.

Youll find every type of accommodation from lavish 5 star international names to smaller hostels, favored by back packers. Book online and see what special rates you can find. Web sites such as http://www.hotel.com.au/bangkok have over 100 hotels in Thailand, ranging from the natural peace and luxury of The Sukhothai on South Sathorn Road, to business hotels in busy downtown Bangkok to the Hard Rock Hotel on Pattaya Beach, Bangkoks favorite seaside resort.

Getting around is easier.

One of the first words youll learn in Bangkok is Rot tip or rot tit which literally means cars that stick, in other words traffic jam. But the everyday snarls and gridlock have been vastly improved by Bangkoks cosmopolitan transport system.

You can now ride the subway, the Hua Lamphong Bang Sue line has 18 stations along the 12 mile route. Its fast, quiet and modern.

Jump on a BTS Sky Train. BTS sky trains ply along Sukhumvit, Silom and Phahonyothin roads. The routes connect Bangkoks leading hotels and major shopping areas such as Siam Square, Silom, Ratchaprasong and Chatuchak Weekend Market.

Of course, you cant go to Bangkok without a ride in a tuk-tuk. These zippy three-wheeled open-air motorized taxis are popular for short journeys. Fares must be bargained in advance, its part of the fun.

Top 5 must-see highlights.

The Grand Palace: the number one attraction. Every visitor to Bangkok should see the magnificent buildings within the Grand Palace compound to get a feeling of this grand architecture. Since the founding of Bangkok as the Nations capital by King Rama I, The Grand Palace has been the major architectural symbol of The Thai Royal Family. The Royal Family actually resides at Chitralada Palace while The Grand Palace is used for ceremonial purposes.

Wat Pho: possibly the most interesting temple in Thailand. It combines history, medical science and is a center for meditation and traditional massage training. Have a massage while youre here, at a very fair price.

Chatuchak Weekend Market: with over 9,000 shops and stalls youll be tempted over and over. Close to everything that is for sale in Bangkok is here, including antiques, Buddha amulets, handicrafts, clothes, flowers and furniture. (Youll notice that some maps spell it Jatuchak. Many English words have multiple spellings, so if youre in doubt, ask the hotel concierge to write it in Thai for the taxi driver.)

Vimanmek Mansion Museum: the world’s largest golden teak building located in the compound of the Dusit Palace on Ratchawithi Road. The three-storey royal mansion has 81 rooms, halls and ante-chambers containing unique memorabilia.

Jim Thompsons House: this exquisite Thai house and buildings stand as a museum to the man who revived the Thai silk industry after the Second World War. The company he founded, Jim Thompson Thai Silk, is recognized worldwide for its brilliant fabrics, home accessories and fashion items. The gardens are equally impressive with a lush tropical jungle imitating nature’s haphazard beauty right in the center of the city.

Shopping till you drop!

Shopping in Bangkok is not limited to one or two streets. Youll find dozens of malls, markets and luxury retail outlets throughout the city. The most popular are located around the Ploenchit-Ratchaprasong area, Sukhumvit Rd and Silom-Surawong-Patpong, including the fantastic Patpong night market where you can pick up your souvenirs, fashion and Thai handicrafts. Dont be shy to bargain in the market (nicely) as your dollar can go a long way.

Bangkok rocks.

Bangkok has no single area for nightlife it has several. Bars are spread out all over town in places such as Patpong, Silom Soi 2 and 4, Soi Sarasin and Lang Suan, Royal City Avenue, Banglumpoo, Soi Cowboy and Sukhumvit Soi 33, among others.

One of the hottest new spots is called Bed is an extraordinary space-age designer lounge in fashionable Sukhumvit Soi 11. The Bed Supper Club is a dining in bed experience. Best described as a unique combination of upscale restaurant, club, art gallery, theater and stage merged into one.

Celebrate the Diamond Jubilee of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej.

If you need another good reason to visit The Land of Smiles, here it is. This year marks the Diamond Jubilee of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej, the ninth king of the Chakri Dynasty. The King has reigned for almost 60 yeas, making him not only the longest reigning Thai monarch, but the longest reigning King in the world today.

A once-in-a-lifetime spectacle.

In true Thai style, the Bangkok celebrations promise to be a spectacular tribute to the Royal Family, full of color, pomp and ceremony. One of the main highlights is The Royal Barge Procession on June 12-13 2006. It will be an international event with twenty-eight monarchs from around the world in attendance. This is a once-in-a lifetime opportunity for visitors, as the Procession is only held to mark significant historical events such as His Majestys ascension to the throne.

A river of splendor.

Bangkoks main river, the Chao Phraya will become the place to be. Imagine a royal armada stretching as far as your eyes can see. A flotilla of superbly carved royal barges slowly sail into view, manned by the Royal Thai Navy dressed in ancient ceremonial uniforms. Each sailor rowing in perfect unison, honed through months of inte
nse practice. If you plan to be in Bangkok in June, do leave the bargains for a few hours and be part of the adoring crowd – and bring your camera.

Incidentally, two major dress rehearsals are planned for the June 6 and 9, so if you can’t attend the real event, this is as close as you may get.

Thailand has a well deserved reputation as the “The Land of Smiles”. Youll receive a warm welcome and feel the genuine friendliness of the locals. One things for sure, the memories of a vacation here will stay with you for a lifetime.

Author: Matthew Lawson
Article Source: EzineArticles.com

The artificial island of KoKred lies cuddled between two bends of the Chao Phyra River at a point where the river wends to its narrowest. It is a counterfeit stricture, as this straight and narrow channel was cut to speed the journey of river traffic as it plied between Ayutthaya and the Gulf of Thailand.

This 10 kilometer square island is a delight. There are no cars, and the roads are narrow concrete strips splayed out around the island. The only traffic is an occasional motorbike or bicycle. What bliss, a stones thrown from Bangkok, a city that is being strangled by the motor vehicle!

and the roads are narrow concrete strips splayed out around the island. The only traffic is an occasional motorbike or bicycle. What bliss, a stones thrown from Bangkok, a city that is being strangled by the motor vehicle.

As you step off the ferry that has brought you across the river from Pakkred in a brief minute or two, you step back into a Thailand of 50 years ago. This island is home to a community of Mon people who came here from their homeland in the river Kwai valley north of Kanchanaburi . The temples and Buddha shrines scattered around the island are visible evidence of this neo-Burmese heritage.

The island is the site of a pottery industry. The rich clay soil provides an ideal medium for the red terracotta earthenware pots and water containers that were the mainstay of this economy. Sadly, others elsewhere, produce alternatives at a cheaper price and brick kilns have outlived their usefulness. Now the potters have turned their attention to the tourists who visit the island, usually on a Sunday in one of the large tour boats that sail up river from Taksin Bridge. However, the rich soil also supports a verdant landscape of palms, and fruit trees giving the place a wonderfully tranquil and rural feel. As a visitor you can walk around the island, hire a bicycle or zip quickly by on one of several motor cycle taxis. Its quite a long walk, just over 5 kilometers, but a wonderful one at that! The path takes you under plantain tress with bunches of bananas overhanging the walk way and down below limes, papayas, pomeloes and all sorts of fruit I cannot identify grow in profusion.

For the really discerning travellers, there are rooms available to rent a very reasonable Bt 200 per night. The KoKred Restaurant has a verandah that juts out over the river. It is an ideal venue to eat or just sit, sip a drink and watch the sand barges and other water traffic as they glide by.

You dont need to take the big cruise boats, chock full of tourists. Instead make you way to Victory Monument on the BTS. This missile like structure, which commemorates the Indo-Chinese War of 1940-41, serves as transport hub for Bangkok. Walk along the arterial skyway, and below you will see a sea of bus stands. Go as far as you can, descend and then wait for a 166 Bus. This will take you to Pakkred by motorway, thus avoiding the worst of the traffic jams. On reaching Pakkred, which is the terminus. You alight obliquely opposite the TMB bank, walk straight ahead until you encounter the motorcycle taxi-rank situated at the rear entrance of Jusco. Mumble something about KoKred and the driver will take you to the ferry stage at Wat Sana Nua. Enjoy the trip!

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Author: Alister Bredee
Article Source: EzineArticles.com