Natures News

Bangkok, Thailand (PRWEB) June 25, 2008 –

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) (http://www.thailand.net.au) together with Golfasian (http://www.golfasian.com) have organized a five day golf familiarization (FAM) trip for Australian travel agents to Bangkok and Hua Hin that introduced them to the premier golfing available at these two Thai destinations. Golf travel representatives from the different Australian markets expressed their great satisfaction with and impression about golf in Thailand (http://www.golfasian.com/golfasian/thailand_golf_destination_information.asp). The Tourism Authority of Thailand indicated that the success of the golf FAM would help to lift the profile of Bangkok and Hua Hin as year round destinations for Australian golfers.

Commenting on the trip, Anin Gujral, TAT Australia Marketing Officer, highlighted the importance of the golf FAM saying, “This is one of the major components of the Australia promotional campaign for Thailand. The golf FAM allowed the Australian agents to experience the world-class golf of Bangkok and Hua Hin, as well as the tourism, hotel, and resort facilities in both Thai cities. Our intention in scheduling this particular trip on the heels of the Thailand Travel Mart, a travel exhibition for the industry, was to leverage the excellent exposure received there, as well as welcoming new potential partnerships. The agent’s positive feedback will help to promote Thailand golf tourism in Australia and further increase the fame of Thailand throughout the region.”

Mr. Gujral went on to say, “Organizing such trips contributes to the support of Thailand golf tourism on a massive scale. These FAM’s are one of the best ways to communicate with travel decision makers. It gives them first hand golfing experience of each destination. Bangkok (http://www.golfasian.com/golfasian/location.asp?golf-packages=Bangkok-Golf&Location_ID=1) is one of the most popular holiday cities for general tourism, but is lesser know to golfers. Hua Hin (http://www.golforient.com/thailand-golf/hua-hin-golf), while popular with locals is a relatively new destination for Australian golfers and is a good alternative to the more poplar golf destinations of Phuket and Pattaya. This trip will help the agents guide their customers when planning a Thailand golf holiday package.”

Mark Siegel, Golfasian’s Managing Director, added, “Additional FAM trips are planned with other TAT offices to promote Thailand golf (http://www.thailandgolfzone.com) internationally. While continuing to actively sell Thailand golf on their own, Golfasian works closely with related tourism trade and associations to demonstrate the quality of the industry and year round playability of the Thailand golf courses and resorts. Having knowledgeable golf agents on board is the key to increase arrivals from a particular region.”

The travel agents enjoyed each city, which included visits to spas, restaurants and entertainment centers, together with shopping areas. Before returning to their home towns, members of the familiarization group shared their thoughts about golf in Thailand.

Bede Hendren, Teed-Up Australia director is a first-time golfer to Thailand. He expressed that Thailand is a high quality golf destination and good year round golf is available at numerous destinations. Golf courses such as Thai Country Club in Bangkok (http://www.golforient.com/bangkok-courses/thai-country-club) and Black Mountain in Hua Hin (http://www.golfasian.com/golfasian/golf_course_detail.asp?course=Black-Mountain-Golf-Club&gcid=107), both of whom will host major PGA tournaments, rival top courses anywhere in the world. This combined with world class resorts and year round favorable playing conditions make Thailand an ideal golf destination for Australians.

Other members of the delegation expressed eagerness to take advantage of Thailand as a year round golf destination for Australians, saying that Thailand is well positioned to be one of their most prominent golf destinations. With over 250 courses to choose from and excellent value for money Thailand is a golfer’s paradise for both budget minded golfers and those seeking exclusive courses and unrivaled service. Moreover, the exotic Thai cultural characteristics and hospitality of it’s people make Thailand a truly unique golf destination and ensure its long term success.

Throughout the year, TAT and Golfasian organize golf FAM groups from all over the world. Members of the groups will share their first hand golf experiences gained in Thailand with the target source markets when they return home. Participants in the golf FAM trips range from long-haul markets to nearby regions, and the trip will arm them with the knowledge to lead effective golf travel promotions in their home markets. Additional trips with golf travel agents and media representatives from other destinations are being planned.

About TAT (http://www.tourismthailand.org/about-tat/)

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is specifically responsible for the promotion of tourism in Thailand. TAT supplies information and data on tourist areas to the public, publicizes Thailand with the intention of encouraging both Thai and international tourists to travel in and around Thailand, conducts studies to set development plans for tourist destinations, and co-operates with and supports the production and development of personnel in the field of tourism. TAT maintains over 30 offices worldwide, with Sydney being the main office responsible for Australia and Oceania.

About Golfasian (http://www.golfasian.com/golfasian/about_thailand_golf_company.asp)

A privately-held Bangkok, Thailand based company; Golfasian was established in 1997, maintains its head office in Bangkok, Thailand, and has additional operations in all of the main golf tourist centers in Thailand. The company has served over 10,000 satisfied golfers and maintains a worldwide agent network who organizes group golf tours to Thailand. The company been recognized by TAT as one of the leading inbound golf tour operators in Thailand and specializes in exclusive and multi-destination golf vacations, partnering with all the premier golf courses and luxury golf resorts. If you are interested in promoting golf in Thailand please do not hesitate to contact Golfasian.

Bangkok, Thailand (PRWEB) September 30, 2008 — Already a tourist hot spot (both figuratively and literally), Bangkok is now unlike any time in the past, as the readers of Travel and Leisure just acknowledged by voting Bangkok the “World’s Best City, 2008″. Being a city so rich in sights and sounds, seemingly everywhere, Bangkok can feel overwhelming at times. Luckily Bangkok hotels have made enjoying the city’s wonderful madness a little easier by creating outstanding viewpoints to enjoy this vast city. Agoda.com salutes Bangkok and proposes top 10 hotels to check out some of Bangkok’s amazing views.

Today, Bangkok sprawls in every direction, extending beyond the horizon. Still a massive network of streets and sois, the city now bristles with skyscrapers, mega malls, elevated expressways and sky trains. The ubiquitous food stalls, markets, world class shopping and nightlife still attract tourists in droves, but it’s the elegance and modernity of the city that consistently surprises.

Michael Kenny, CEO of Agoda.com, says, “Bangkok is a city full of energy and beauty. It’s also a city with an eclectic mix of contradictions. The food stalls, markets, shopping and culture; all this activity happens in surroundings that are both classically Thai and ultra-modern. The churning Chao Phraya River lined with ancient temples set against a modern skyline is truly a unique sight. Bangkok hotels (http://www.agoda.com/asia/thailand/bangkok.html) have embraced the city’s diverse nature, creating rooftop bars, restaurants and viewpoints that rival anyplace in the world. Those who get to live in Bangkok experience all its delights on a daily basis. It looks like the rest of the world has finally started to take notice Bangkok deserves this award.”

Agoda.com is an Asia-based, worldwide online hotel bookings company, renowned for its expertise in the Bangkok marketplace, and offers hotel reservations with nearly 300 Bangkok hotels to choose from. The staff at Agoda has chosen the top 10 hotels where tourists can indulge in some amazing views of Thailand’s “City of Angels”.

Agoda’s Top 10 hotels showcasing Bangkok’s amazing views are:

1. Lebua at State Tower (http://www.agoda.com/asia/thailand/bangkok/lebua_at_state_tower_hotel.html) — Sirocco- Located on the 63rd floor of The Dome at the Lebua at State Tower, Sirocco is the world’s highest al fresco restaurant. Also one of Bangkok’s most coveted dining choices, the experience never fails to leave one mesmerized. This award-winning restaurant offers breathtaking views of Bangkok and the Chao Phraya River.

2. The Banyan Tree (http://www.agoda.com/asia/thailand/bangkok/banyan_tree_hotel.html) — Vertigo Grill & Moon Bar – Located on the 61st floor, Vertigo is one of the landmarks of fine dining in Bangkok. The top floor of the Banyan Tree Hotel offers spectacular panoramic views of Bangkok. Even without trying the decadent menu, just witnessing the sunset at Vertigo is an unforgettable experience. The slow melt of the sun into darkness, ultimately revealing the sparkling lights of the Bangkok night, leaves guests awestruck.

3. Centara Grand at CentralWorld (http://www.agoda.com/asia/thailand/bangkok/centara_grand_at_central_world_hotel.html) — A gourmet dining & grill restaurant, Fifty Five is dramatically perched on the 54th & 55th floors, with amazing views of Bangkok, set to serve the very best Thailand has to offer. Red Sky a chic, urban bistro and lounge with breathtaking, al fresco vistas of Bangkok, located on the 55th floor. Both scheduled to open in September 2008.

4. The Dusit Thani (http://www.agoda.com/asia/thailand/bangkok/dusit_thani_hotel.html) — D’Sens – A graceful French restaurant, D’Sens is located on the top floor of the hotel. The large windows allow guests to gaze out onto all the early evening activity of historical Lumpini Park and the hustle and bustle of Silom, Bangkok’s city center.

5. The Landmark Hotel (http://www.agoda.com/asia/thailand/bangkok/landmark_hotel.html) — RR & B Bar – A roof-top steakhouse and bar, RR & B is located on the 31st floor, offering breathtaking views of the city’s skyline and one of Bangkok’s best grills.

6. The Westin Grande Sukhumvit Hotel (http://www.agoda.com/asia/thailand/bangkok/westin_grande_sukhumvit_hotel.html) — Horizon Sky Lounge and Karaoke – Follow dinner with drinks, music and questionable karaoke at the Horizons Sky Lounge and Karaoke with its panoramic views of Bangkok’s sparkling lights.

7. The Baiyoke Sky (http://www.agoda.com/asia/thailand/bangkok/baiyoke_sky_hotel.html) — Thailand’s tallest hotel with 3 fantastic restaurants located at its peak. The Bangkok Sky Restaurant on the 76th & 78th floors, the Crystal Grill on the 82nd floor and the rocking Roof Top Bar & Music on the 83rd floor, Thailand’s highest entertainment venue.

8. The Mandarin Oriental Hotel (http://www.agoda.com/asia/thailand/bangkok/mandarin_oriental_hotel.html) — The Verandah – With a massive patio extending out onto the Chao Phraya River, the elegant Verandah is the perfect spot to enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner. Renovated in 2005 the Verandah serves delectable Asian and Western cuisines in subtle Thai surroundings. The majestic Oriental Hotel was just ranked number 14 in Travel and Leisure’s Top 500 Hotels.

9. The Millennium Hilton-Bangkok (http://www.agoda.com/asia/thailand/bangkok/millennium_hilton_hotel.html) — Three Sixty Lounge – Sitting 32 floors up and chilling out to a little jazz, the Three Sixty Lounge provides the perfect setting to take Bangkok all in. A relaxed, romantic setting with an extensive cocktail list, this jazz bar is quickly becoming a city favorite.

10. The Peninsula Hotel (http://www.agoda.com/asia/thailand/bangkok/peninsula_hotel.html) — Thiptara Restaurant – Thiptara literally translates to “heaven on water” and the Thiptara Restaurant is just that, set on the picturesque banks of the Chao Phraya River nestled under a huge Banyan tree. The Peninsula’s new Thiptara Thai restaurant offers authentic, Thai home-style food served outdoors, in teakwood, Thai-style pavilions. Bangkok’s outstanding Peninsula Hotel was just ranked number 17 in Travel and Leisure’s Top 500 Hotels.

For more information regarding Agoda, please go to the website at www.agoda.com or contact the Agoda customer service team via telephone at +66 2 625 9100 or e-mail at info @ agoda.com

Note to Editors:

About Agoda Company:

Agoda (agoda.com) is an online hotel reservations service which specializes in securing the lowest discount hotel prices in Asia. Agoda is part of Priceline.com (Nasdaq:PCLN). Agoda’s network includes 8,290 hotels in Asia and more than 49,700 worldwide. The staff of over 300 professionals, located throughout Asia, provides a first-rate reservation service that uniquely combines local knowledge and local connections to provide the best hotel deals to both business and leisure travelers.

In addition, Agoda customers participate in the Agoda Rewards Program, earning further discounts and free stays. Unlike programs that limit travelers to a single chain, the Agoda Rewards Program allows customers to redeem Rewards Points at thousands of hotels around the globe, at any time. A member of the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA), Agoda’s aim is to promote travel by making it more affordable and more accessible to more people.

Press Information: Ms. Pornpavee Kullama

Phone: + 66 (0) 2 6259258

Email: pornpavee.kullama @ agoda.com

Bangkok, Thailand (PRWEB) August 22, 2008 — Thailand inStyle is pleased to announce the inclusion of The Old Bangkok Inn to its highly selective portfolio of hotels and boutique hotels in Thailand. A former palace and located in the heart of Rattanakosin island – not in fact an island but at the very heart of Bangkok’s historical and cultural centre – the building that now houses the Old Bangkok Inn was left to decay and in a highly dilapidated state became a noodle house before being fully renovated and reincarnated into the 10-room Bangkok Inn.

But why has The Bangkok Inn been selected by Thailand inStyle?

The eclectic traveler of today looks for experiences that reflect their own tastes and values.

Miguel Cunat, CEO of Thailand inStyle, said, “We aim to provide that discerning group of travelers with something which is instantly recognizable and appreciated. We define Style as being authentic, detailed, seamless, textured, unpretentious and natural with a personality that exudes innate individuality and The Old Bangkok Inn fulfills and surpasses each of these qualities.”

“If you like a hotel to be more like a home, then you’ll love the Old Bangkok Inn,” wrote Lisa Rosenfeld, TIME Magazine, June 6, 2006.

In its selection process, Thailand inStyle evaluates hotels, boutique hotels and villas in Thailand (http://www.thailandinstyle.com), pigeon-holing the chosen few in various different categories, from ultra innovative and hip through to properties that exude traditional and cultural values.

In Thailand inStyle’s properties, you may find properties that are faded but you wont find properties that are jaded. Location of the residence is also an important factor.

The Old Bangkok Inn (http://www.thailandinstyle.com/property.php?id=7&name=Old%20Bangkok%20Inn&type=Hotel) staff are always at-hand to offer helpful advise and the most practical options where transport is concerned and how to avoid Bangkok’s notorious traffic.

Suffice to say that your best options are on the doorstep in the form of Bangkok canal ferries (a truly InStyle mode of transport upon which to navigate Bangkok) and the Chao Phraya River Ferries, both of which are extremely cheap, highly efficient, sometimes a little dramatic and a great way to see the Venice of the East.

“Steering guests away from gas-guzzling taxis and toward alternative forms of transport is just one way the Old Bangkok Inn is actively distinguishing itself as an urban green hotel – one of the increasing number of places that are adopting that strategy,” wrote Jennifer Conlin, New York Times, March 16, 2008.

Thailand inStyle also provides concierge services such as chauffeur driven cars, expert guides and a wealth of local travel advise all designed to ensure that guests can sit back and derive maximum satisfaction from their time in Thailand.

For further information refer to www.thailandinstyle.com.

About Thailand inStyle:

Thailand inStyle is a Bangkok based travel company specializing in preparing interesting alternatives and ideas which are “out of the box.” and which provide a conversational currency long after the holiday itself has finished.

Bangkok, Thailand (PRWEB) May 6, 2009 — TreeTop Asia is proud to announce the opening of Flight of the Gibbon Adventure Tour Bangkok (http://www.treetopasia.com/thailand-holiday/flight-of-the-gibbon-bangkok). The grand opening of this world-class tour will be on June 1st, 2009. Press are invited to join in on the experience. The soft launch begins May 21st for the general public and reservations are available now through the website. The new tour will allow visitors to "fly" through the rainforest canopy on a state-of-the-art, ultra-safe system of zip-lines. At over three kilometers in length, the zip-line course will be even bigger and longer than TreeTop Asia's original Flight of the Gibbon Adventure Tour in Chiang Mai. Opening at the same location on June 21, 2009 will be the Go Gibbon Adventure Course, which is an outdoor jungle-gym that will feature climbing, zip-lining, and an exhilarating "tarzan swing" through the forest and across a lake. Both activities are suitable for all-ages.

Building on the phenomenal success of Flight of the Gibbon Adventure Tour in Chiang Mai (http://www.treetopasia.com/), TreeTop Asia now brings this exciting and educational opportunity to even more foreigners and Thai nationals alike.

The Bangkok Adventure Tour site is nestled in the heart of one of Thailand's most stunning natural settings. Visitors will experience the majesty of the rainforest while engaging in exciting, low environmental-impact activities. The site is bordered on one side by the 30,000 hectare Chompoo Wildlife Sanctuary, which is bursting with rainforest animals, including wild storks and cheeky monkeys. The sanctuary is also home to the more elusive gibbons, wild boar, bears, deer and hornbills. On the other side of TreeTop Asia's Bangkok site is the Khao Kheo Open Safari, Thailand's only "open safari".

Zip-line tours have been gaining popularity around the world in recent decades and TreeTop Asia takes pride in staying on the cutting edge of the sport. The tours provided by TreeTop Asia are of the highest quality and customer safety is the company's top priority. They use only the highest-rated, top-of-the-line equipment and all guides are thoroughly trained in zip-line instruction, first-aid and rainforest wilderness skills.

The owners of TreeTop Asia have been operating in Asia for 20 years with a zero-accident record. In addition to safety, Flight of the Gibbon Bangkok and the Go Gibbon Adventure Course both provide exciting rainforest exploration and education about the surrounding wildlife and habitat.

The Chiang Mai site continues to receive glowing reviews from customers both young and old, both timid and wild. Even people who are a little anxious before the experience have a great time, "Considering I'm scared of heights… this was one of the most memorable parts of my trip to Thailand… I would recommend it to all those traveling to Chiang Mai," said Flight of the Gibbon visitor, Priya via FaceBook (http://www.facebook.com/pages/Flight-of-the-Gibbon/23243030604?ref=ts).

"…caters for all tastes, (mild or wild)." — Chang Puak Magazine.

"When people visit Thailand we want them to see more than just the tourist hot-spots," says Barret Agent, Environmental Education Coordinator at Flight of the Gibbon. "Riding a zip-line through the treetops provides visitors with an experience of these exquisite rainforests previously reserved for only a select group of scientists and researchers."

Admission to the Khao Kheo Open Safari is included in the purchase of a ticket for either Flight of the Gibbon Bangkok or the Go Gibbon Adventure Course.

For additional information on Flight of the Gibbon Bangkok please visit the company's Bangkok Adventure Tour (http://www.treetopasia.com/bangkok) page.

About TreeTop Asia:

While TreeTop Asia's focus is on adventure tours, respect for the environment and the native cultures of Thailand are also central to their work. The company houses guests on it's multi-day tours near Chiang Mai in village home-stays, and actively participates in rainforest conservation and the reintroduction of gibbons into their natural habitat. Customers purchasing tickets to any of the tours from the company's website are offered the option of offsetting the carbon emissions from their international flight to Thailand.

Contact:

Barret Agent, Environmental Education Coordinator

TreeTop Asia Co. Ltd.

barrett (at) treetopasia (dot) com

086 943 8678

or +66 86 943 8678 from outside Thailand

http://www.TreeTopAsia.com

Bangkok, Thailand (PRWEB) August 6, 2009 — Bangkok Airways recently launched the "FLYER PASS", the first prepaid sets of tickets designed to fulfil different lifestyles when it comes to hassle-free and value-for-money travel.

The FLYER PASS is divided into 4 smart packs: Fun, Fusion, Fancy and Freedom. Each set consists of 4 flight sectors selectable from the card's designated destinations at prices starting from all inclusive airfares of 9,000 Baht up to 29,000 Baht. The FLYER PASS is available at all Bangkok Airways offices and through travel agents and is easy to book online via www.bangkokair.com/FLYERPASS and through Bangkok Airways Call Center 1771.

To introduce the FLYER PASS and drive online sales, Bangkok Airways selected Admax Network as their primary digital media vendor (http://www.admaxnetwork.com/). The company was chosen due to the breadth and depth of their ad network in Thailand that reaches more than 150 websites with an audience of 12.7 million people.

"In our previous campaigns, Admax Network made it easy for us to reach many new members of our target audience to meet our campaign objectives," commented M.L. Nandhika Varavarn, Vice President for Corporate Communications. "Based on those experiences, we were confident in choosing the company to introduce the FLYER PASS to Internet audience at worldwide level."

About Admax Network:

Admax Network, launched in 2006, is a subsidiary of Digital Marketing Solutions (DMS Group). It is the largest online advertising network in Southeast Asia with offices in Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Philippines and Vietnam. Admax Network combines over 1,200 of the top local and international websites, making it easy for advertisers to reach their target audience online, and helping publishers to maximize their revenues through a range of display advertising products. For more information, please visit www.admaxnetwork.com.

About Bangkok Airways Co., Ltd.

Bangkok Airways (www.bangkokair.com), with the ASIA'S BOUTIQUE AIRLINE slogan, is the first private airline established in Thailand since 1968. Taking off daily with about a hundred flights per day from Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi Airport, Bangkok Airways flies travelers from around the world to more than twenty exquisite destinations across Thailand and Asia. To name a few; Samui, Phuket, Krabi, Trat (Koh Chang), Maldives are amongst the hottest beach selections; whilst Sukhothai, Luang Prabang, Siem Reap (Angkor), and Hiroshima are of the world heritage personalities, each of which possesses her unique flair.

Bangkok Airways is the only airline in Asia that has won the Skytrax' Best Regional Airline for 6 consecutive years since 2004. As a member of the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA), Bangkok Airways continues to provide comfort at an uncompromised safety standard to all passengers towards the region's tourism sustainability.

Bangkok, Thailand (PRWEB) October 13, 2008 — Exotissimo Travel announced the availability of instant booking of Bangkok excursions (http://www.exotissimo.com/bangkok-excursions.html) on its website, where guests can place their reservations and receive immediate confirmation. This service is expected to cater to the varying needs of the company's growing customer base.

This online booking system is easy and convenient for guests to use. On this site, a comprehensive listing of Exotissimo's Bangkok excursions with ample information and rates are displayed clearly. Once payment has been made online through a guaranteed secure system, an immediate confirmation of the booking will be sent to the guest's email address.

Exotissimo Thailand's General Manager, Edwin Briels, remarked, "This instant online booking system enhances efficiency and enables us to offer unparalleled service. Our customers know what exactly they are getting and are saved the hassle of dealing with third-party booking agents."

Exotissimo's diverse range of Bangkok excursions is designed to suit the interests and preferences of all travelers. The excursions comprise of half-day, full day and evening tours in Bangkok (http://www.exotissimo.com/bangkok-excursions.html) and its surrounding provinces, and ranges from temple tours, rice barge cruises, cooking courses, meditation classes to even bicycle tours.

Exotissimo has also hand-picked certain tours that are specially designed to take guests away from well-trodden tourist paths to discover the real Bangkok. Designated as Signature Tours, these trips are unique to Exotissimo and give guests an unparalleled perspective into the destination traveled to.

Some of the best-loved Exotissimo Signature Tours (http://www.exotissimo.com/bangkok-excursions.html) include joining Buddhist monks in their morning prayers and experiencing the majestic grandeur of Thai temples in '(Chanting at) Wat Po and Grand Palace Tour', venturing into the maze of canals in 'Unseen Klongs Tour by Long-tailed Boats' and strolling though upcountry markets with distinctive local flavors in 'Tha Kha Market & Amphawa Tour'.

Guests can use these Bangkok excursions as add-ons to their trips in Thailand, or bundle other tailor-made excursions in Thailand (http://www.exotissimo.com/thailand-tours.html) together to make an in-depth trip to Bangkok and the central provinces.

All tours are conducted by Exotissimo licensed tour guides with the use of high quality cars and vans. All entrance fees are included within the price codes and there are no hidden extras.

Exotissimo's Bangkok excursions are available for booking at: http://www.exotissimo.com/bangkok-excursions.html

About Exotissimo

Exotissimo Travel is a premier destination management company (www.exotissimo.com) in Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar and Thailand. Opened in 1993, the company is now a network of 15 locally-based offices staffing over 500 travel professionals, with sales offices in San Francisco, Paris, Barcelona and Melbourne. For more information, please visit www.exotissimo.com.

Phuket, Thailand (PRWEB) October 2, 2009 — HotelTravel.com is spotlighting superb hotel deals for this year's Loy Krathong Festival in Bangkok, offering the best value- for-money rates for accommodation on the Internet.

The Loy Krathong Festival, also known as 'Festival of Lights', is held on the first full moon of the 12th month in the traditional Thai lunar calendar, on 1 to 2 November in 2009, when the Chaophraya River crests its banks and the tide is at its highest.

In Thai 'Loy' means to float and 'Krathong' is a small raft traditionally made of banana tree trunk decorated with elaborately-folded banana leaves, lotus flowers, candles and incense sticks among other items.

HotelTravel.com Chief Information Officer, Olivier Dombey, said that celebrating Loy Krathong in Bangkok is a must for all visitors interested in traditional ceremonies as well as Thai culture and history.

"The Chaophraya River offers visitors a complete Loy Krathong experience, from the floating of Krathongs, dinner cruises or the spectacular fireworks displays – it really offers a spectacular setting to take in the festival."

"With Bangkok's Grand Palace providing a picturesque backdrop it is truly a magnificent scene to behold. There are heaps of riverfront restaurants that provide great viewing areas, serve sumptuous Thai cuisine and usually throw in a Thai classical dance performance during the Loy Krathong Festival."

"In addition to riverfront hotels, HotelTravel.com is also featuring value-for-money deals in other popular spots to celebrate Loy Krathong in Bangkok. Log on and check out our hotel offerings around Lumphini Park near Silom Road and Benchasiri Park on Sukhumvit Road," he added.

Hotels in Bangkok (http://www.hoteltravel.com/thailand/bangkok/hotels.htm), especially in the bustling Silom Road and Sukhumvit Road commercial corridors, could be busy from the beginning of November as it also marks the start of the high season in Thailand.

For Riverside hotels (http://www.hoteltravel.com/thailand/bangkok/riverside.html), consider the Bangkok Marriott Resort and Spa (http://www.hoteltravel.com/thailand/bangkok/marriott_bangkok.htm) (from US $116 per night), Millennium Hilton Bangkok Hotel (http://www.hoteltravel.com/thailand/bangkok/millennium_hilton.htm) (from US $151 per night), Shangri-La Hotel Bangkok (from US $165 per night) or stay in the historic luxury of the Mandarin Oriental Bangkok (from US $326 per night).

For Silom hotels (http://www.hoteltravel.com/thailand/bangkok/silom.html) close to Bangkok's Lumphini Park, have a look at Dusit Thani Hotel Bangkok (http://www.hoteltravel.com/thailand/bangkok/dusit_thani.htm) (from US$ 94 per night), Pan Pacific Hotel Bangkok (from US$ 118 per night), Sofitel Silom Bangkok (http://www.hoteltravel.com/thailand/bangkok/monarch_lee_gardens.htm) (from US$ 131 per night) or Le Meridien Bangkok Hotel (from US$234 per night).

Sukhumvit hotels (http://www.hoteltravel.com/thailand/bangkok/sukhumvit.html) near Benchasiri Park include the Davis Bangkok (http://www.hoteltravel.com/thailand/bangkok/davis.htm) (from US$ 86 per night), Grand Mercure Park Avenue (http://www.hoteltravel.com/thailand/bangkok/jade_pavilion.htm) (from US$86 per night), Imperial Queen's Park (from US$ 111 per night) or the Emporium Suites (from US$ 143 per night).

Mr Dombey observed that Loy Krathong probably originated in India as a Hindu festival similar to Deepavali as thanksgiving to the deity of the Ganges with floating lanterns for giving life throughout the year.

According to the writings of His Majesty King Rama IV in 1863, the originally Brahmanical festival was adapted by Buddhists in Thailand as a ceremony to honour the Buddha, Siddhartha Guatama. Apart from venerating the Buddha with light (the candle on the raft), the act of floating away the candle raft is symbolic of letting go of all one's sins, grudges, anger and defilements, so that one can start life fresh on better footing. People will also cut their fingernails and hair and add them to the raft as a symbol of letting go of one's bad bits.

The numerous beauty contests that usually accompany the festival are known as 'Noppamas Beauty Queen Contests'. According to legend, Noppamas was a consort of the Sukhothai King Loethai during the 14th century and she was the first to float decorated Krathongs. The Loy Krathong festival is also associated with the start of vegetable carving in the Kingdom.

In Northern Thailand Loy Krathong is also known as 'Yi Peng'. A multitude of Lanna-style sky lanterns, 'Khom Fai', are also launched into the air where they resemble large flocks of giant fluorescent balloons gracefully floating through the skies. These are believed to help rid Thais of their troubles, and a variation is also used to decorate houses and streets.

Many Thais choose to make their own Krathong, but visitors can easily buy one from one of the vendors that set up shop near any river, stream or lake. Everyone should add a token one or five baht coin to the offering.

About HotelTravel.com

HotelTravel.com is a leader in worldwide hotel bookings and a pioneer in online customer service, providing the inside track to the best deals and discounts for hotels in more than 100 countries. Founded in 1999, the company's multi-lingual website offers eight languages – English, Chinese, Japanese, French, German, Spanish, Italian, and Korean – supported by a 24-hour customer service centre staffed by native speakers in each language. The company employs over 300 staff with offices in Thailand, Malaysia and China.

Bangkok, Thailand (PRWEB) December 20, 2008 — To get in on the Christmas spirit and celebrate the coming new year, Agoda.com, an online hotel reservations service, is offering customers a number of unbeatable, last-minute Thailand hotel (http://www.agoda.com/asia/thailand.html) deals. To boost tourism Thailand hotels have begun to slash their rates, even during this normal "peak period". Agoda is now able to offer further savings of up to 40% off these already discounted rates.

Thailand's amazing scenery and hospitality makes it a great choice anytime for winter holidays. With colorful countdown activities occuring throughout Thailand ready to welcome 2009, it is the perfect time to visit the "Land of Smiles". 'Hands Bangkok Countdown 2009' is the city's biggest celebration. Held on the Rajaprasong shopping street, the event is a massive street-party where Thais and foreigners ring in the new year together. Attractions include a live concert featuring Thailand's top singers, celebrities and superstars together with many other entertainment activities and fireworks.

Just south of Bangkok, Pattaya Countdown 2009 welcomes tourists with live concerts featuring various famous recording artists and is capped with a huge fireworks display at midnight. In the cooler north, Chiang Mai showcases various musical and entertainment acts, stretching throughout Tha Phae road and Tha Phae gate. The beaches of Samui and Krabi offer southern, more relaxed fair, as locals and tourists alike welcome 2009 on Thailand's famous sands.

Mr. Fan Wilfred, Agoda's Vice President of Business Development says, "Countdown events in Thailand are becoming increasingly popular. It provides a common arena where both Thais and foreigners can celebrate together. And it's not just occurring in Bangkok but many well known areas throughout Thailand are make preparations to ring in the New Year. To help celebrate Christmas and New Year, Agoda has managed to secure last minute allotments with special rates for various hotels in Thailand's hottest spots"

Samui

Bandara Resort & Spa, Samui – 5 Star at USD 129 (normally USD 224)

New Star Beach Resort, Samui (http://www.agoda.com/asia/thailand/samui/new_star_beach_resort.html) – 4.5 Star at USD 190 (normally USD 329)

Krabi

SALA TALAY Resort & Spa, Krabi – 4 Star at USD 146 (normally USD 253)

Railay Bay Resort, Krabi (http://www.agoda.com/asia/thailand/krabi/railay_bay_resort_spa.html) – 4 Star at USD 183 (normally USD 318)

Hua Hin

Worabura Resort and Spa, Hua Hin -5 Star at USD 207 (normally USD358)

Veranda Resort and Spa, Hua Hin (http://www.agoda.com/asia/thailand/hua_hin_cha_am/veranda_resort_spa.html) – 4 Star at USD 99 (normally USD 172)

Pattaya

Siam Bayshore Resort and Spa, Pattaya – 4 Star at USD 145 (normally USD251)

Nusa Playa Hotel and Spa, Pattaya (http://www.agoda.com/asia/thailand/pattaya/nusa_playa_hotel_spa.html) – 4 Star at USD 106 (normally USD184)

Chiang Mai

Veranda Chiang Mai (http://www.agoda.com/asia/thailand/chiang_mai/veranda_chiang_mai_the_high_resort.html) – 4 Star at USD 154 (normally USD 288)

Bangkok

Grand Millennium Sukhumvit, Bangkok – 5 Star at USD 104 (normally USD139)

Siam City Hotel, Bangkok – 5 Star at USD73 (normally USD 98)

Tenface Hotel, Bangkok (http://www.agoda.com/asia/thailand/bangkok/tenface_hotel.html) – 4 Star at USD72 (normally USD 93)

Majestic Grande Hotel, Bangkok – 4 Star at USD 63 (normally USD95)

For more information regarding Agoda, please visit the website at www.agoda.com or contact the Agoda customer service team via telephone at +66 2 625 9100 or e-mail at info@agoda.com

Note to Editors

About Agoda Company:

Agoda (agoda.com) is an online hotel reservations service which specializes in securing the lowest discount hotel prices in Asia. Agoda is part of Priceline.com (Nasdaq:PCLN). Agoda's network includes 8,290 hotels in Asia and more than 49,700 worldwide. The staff of approximately 300 professionals, located throughout Asia, provides a first-rate reservation service that uniquely combines local knowledge and local connections to provide the best hotel deals to both business and leisure travelers.

In addition, Agoda customers participate in the Agoda Rewards Program, earning further discounts and free stays. Unlike programs that limit travelers to a single chain, the Agoda Rewards Program allows customers to redeem Rewards Points at thousands of hotels around the globe, at any time. A member of the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA), Agoda's aim is to promote travel by making it more affordable and more accessible to more people.

Thailand ,(PRWEB) January 19, 2010 — People staying in Bangkok hotels (http://www.asiarooms.com/thailand/bangkok.html) next month are likely to be planning a visit to the city's famous Chinese New Year celebrations.

Taking place on February 14th, this free event will see members of the Thai capital's huge Chinese population take to the streets to celebrate with dancing, cultural performances and fireworks.

Meanwhile, the main thoroughfares of Bangkok's Chinatown in the Samphanthawong district, such as the Yaowarat and Charon Krung Roads, will welcome colourful dragon processions.

Chinatown is located in one of the city's oldest and most bustling areas and a trip there is likely to be on the agenda for anyone staying in Sukhumvit hotels (http://www.asiarooms.com/thailand/sukhumvit.html) while on their visit to Bangkok.

During the New Year Festival, stalls selling grilled pork, Peking duck, noodles and desserts will be working overtime to feed the many revellers passing through the district.

Chinatown is also known for the large number of gold traders and pawnshops, with many of its vendors having been established in the area for hundreds of years.

Visitors to Bangkok may also like to experience Chinatown for the temple of Wat Traimit, which contains the giant Golden Buddha, believed to be the largest solid gold statue in the world.

Editor Notes

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AsiaRooms.com offers customers a saving of up to 70 per cent off the normal room rate for a variety of independent and branded hotels. Customers can book online or by phone 24/7, whether booking 12 months or 12 minutes in advance – whatever time, whatever day.

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One of the world’s most lively, vibrant and unique cities, visiting Bangkok is an unforgettable experience and having a car is a great way to get around.

Experience the pulsating nightlife of downtown Bangkok. Though the city has a reputation for having a seedy side, it is in fact quite safe and everywhere you are greeted by brilliant tropical foliage such as bougainvillea. Bangkok is polluted and overcrowded though, while the heat is often stifling.

More than 11 million people live in Bangkok which is massive. Thai people are incredibly friendly and so you are sure to find this a warm and welcoming city whether you come here for business or pleasure. Visitors will also find a fascinating mix of traditional Thai culture and temples with fast paced Western culture.

Bangkok became the capital of Thailand when it was created in the late eighteenth century by the Chakri dynasty of monarchs. Don’t miss amazing sights such as the Ancient City, the Anantasamakhom Throne Hall and the Bangkok Butterfly Garden and Insectarium. The temples of Wat Benchamabophit and Wat Bowon Niwet are also spectacular, as is the King Taksin the Great Monument and the King Rama I the Great Memorial.

Bangkok is one of the best culinary cities in the world and the spices and tastes of Bangkok are some of its most memorable aspects. You can eat the traditional Pad Thai dish at curry houses right across the city.

For the more adventurous there are a range of insects such as grasshoppers and scorpions which can be eaten. If you want to learn how to cook Thai food there are a number of restaurants which do courses, the Blue Elephant chain does a relatively pricey introduction but you do get a Blue Elephant apron for your trouble.

For those who prefer not to eat Thai food there is excellent international food on offer too. Another quintessentially Thai pastime is kick boxing. Take a class or watch a match depending on how brave you are feeling. To learn more about Buddhism you can go to The International Buddhist Meditation Centre where donations are welcome as attendance is free of charge. To try your hand at Thai massage go to the Wat Po Temple in Rannakosin.

Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport is Southeast Asia’s busiest airport and the departures area is famous for its lavish shopping opportunities. Travellers will find all the conveniences they need here including excellent restaurants, though you should be aware t hat once you have cleared security there are no facilities or toilets.

Bangkok Suvarnabhumi International Airport has the airport code BKK and it is a main transport hub for Thai Airways and Bangkok Airways. Other airlines which use the airport are SGA Airline, Air Asia and PBair. Allow plenty of time to get around Bangkok Suvarnabhumi International Airport because it is considered to be the world’s largest terminal building. There are a number of hotels located near to the airport for those who are making international transfers. The smaller Don Muang airport was the main airport of Bangkok up until 2006.

Having a car is definitely the easiest way to get from Bangkok Suvarnabhumi International Airport to the city itself, a 30 kilometre journey eastwards. It also saves you money on expensive taxi rides (for Thailand) or the inconvenience of having to wait in line for public transport. Car hire Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport is a cheap and cheerful way to get around the city, though the traffic will certainly raise your heart rate and drivers should know that motorcycle accidents are very common.

Many tourists who go to Thailand frequent the go-go bars, though they should know there are strict rules of etiquette inside and having a passport on you is advisable in case there is a police raid and you don’t fancy spending the night in jail. Also Bangkok is famous for ‘chicks with dicks?, otherwise known as ladyboys. The Adam’s apple is often a giveaway but some have really mastered the art of fitting in!

Another word of warning regards the chained elephants which are dragged through the streets. The owners charge tourists to have their picture taken with the elephants but if you do so you are condoning this cruel practice.

RESOURCE: www.rhinocarhire.com offers cheap car hire in Thailand at the major destinations of Bangkok and Bangkok Suvarnabhumi International Airport. Priding itself on unparalleled levels of customer service, Rhino also has an excellent selection of cars.

Mo Yungsakul is a travel writer and freelance journalist based in Bangkok. He was asked to test drive Rhino Car Hire Bangkok and Car Hire Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport vehicles and write a travel piece based on his adventures. It includes plenty of hints or tips for travelers.

Rob is a travel writer and freelance journalist. He was asked to test drive Rhino Car Hire Bangkok and Car Hire Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport vehicles and write a travel piece based on his adventures.