The Sony Alpha A700 is Sony's mid-level digital SLR, competing in the same price class as the Canon EOS 40D, the Pentax K20D and the Nikon D200/300. Bob Atkins takes a close look at the A700 and includes example images. Read More »
The Lonely Planet Thailand travel guide is a must have for all travelers. There are many other travel guides but we found Lonely Planet to be the most informative. We provide a very brief summary of the information contained in this book, supplemented with many photos and personal reflections.
Phuket, The most popular beach resort region of Thailand
Chiang Mai, Medium size northern city with California-like weather
History
Thailand was huge in 1300 AD and controlled much of the region, until some folks beat them up and made them smaller. Today it is a constitutional monarchy, with a very respected Royal Family, and a less respected Prime Minister.
Culture
The Thai culture is Asian in nature; their epic story is based on the Indian epic Ramayana. 98% of Thais are Theravada Buddhists. There are also Hindus, Christians and Muslims.
Hotel
As noted in the travel guides, you can spend anywhere from $3 to $150 a night and receive service ranging from a dormitory with no AC and no hot water to a luxury hotel with Ritz Carlton-like quality. For a listing of what is available, please see www.HotelThailand.com or www.asia-hotels.com. The Lonely Planet Thailand Guide is also an excellent and very accurate guide to finding accommodations all over Thailand.
Travel Tips
Transportation options within a city are open air taxis (called "tuk tuk"), closed vehicle taxis, and motorcycle taxis (you hold onto driver). There is also an extensive city-wide (Bangkok) bus system, as well as an elevated train system in Bangkok..
Please pay attention to the safety and health recommendations noted in your travel guide. For the latest information on physical threats, please refer to the US State Dept. Thai Travel Advisory (http://travel.state.gov/thailand.html). Since (emergency) medical care must be pre-paid, always travel with a credit card.
Amanda: Thailand is the best travel destination on the planet. They have beaches, mountains, jungles, history, culture, amazing food, and the friendliest people anywhere. I love Thailand!!!
