Awang Semaun

[Note: I wrote the following article for Brunei Times edition 25th May 2008. The accompanying photograph is definitely not that of Awang Semaun. This is an illustration of what Brunei warriors look like in the 18th century.]If one was to mention the name Awang Semaun to any Bruneian, he or she would conjure up a description of a strong brave warrior who has contributed to the existence of Brunei.

The Buauty of Pattaya

The Buauty of Pattaya is an enchanting destination, located along a pictorial bay on the East Coast of the Gulf of Thailand, about 150 km southeast of Bangkok, in Chon Buri province. Once a typical fishing village, Pattaya underwent a great revival when a troop of American Military, consisting of about 100 servicemen, who joined the Vietnam War came here for relaxation on 29 April 1961.

Soon, Pattaya became a premier vacation spot of Thailand. The destination has now evolved into a favorite holiday beach resort of Southeast Asia, and boasts of everything that is required for a luxurious vacation, such as, more than 400 assorted hotels and resorts, city-like dining options, excellent shopping facilities, and intoxicating nightlife. Additionally, this incredible beach resort is only second to Bangkok in high rise structures.

Due to its proximity to Bangkok, Pattaya is a popular weekend getaway for the city's dwellers. It is estimated that this exotic beach destination welcomes more than five million tourists every year. Further, inspired by the tranquility as well as the excellent options it render, many Americans, Europeans, and people from East Asian destinations, including professionals, families, and retired people, have now started to settle down here.

The focal point of Pattaya is undoubtedly its unspoilt beach, categorized into north, south, and central. Stretching from the Dolphin roundabout near Dusit Resort, North Pattaya, otherwise known as Pattaya Neau, is perhaps the most peaceful among the beaches in the area. Located south of the North Pattaya is the Central Pattaya beach, a perfect spot for fun and recreation. This beach area is packed with boutique shops, restaurants, bars, and coffee shops. Nearby Central Pattaya is South Pattaya, which attracts many fun-loving travelers. With a variety bars, discotheques, and nightclubs, the area becomes energetic during night. In short, this destination is for adults only.

Located south of Pattaya beach is Jomitien Beach, which is another thriving beach in the area. Dong Tan is also a much famed beach in Pattaya. All of the beaches in the area provide options to enjoy an array of fun-filled as well as recreational activities.

For instance, if you are a diving enthusiast, Pattaya has diving shops to offer PADI and NAUI certificate courses and that too at affordable rates. For expert divers, the Ko Rin and Ko Man Wichai offer great options. Windsurfing is another great activity that can be enjoyed here. Jomtien Beach is regarded as a center of windsurfing, the evidence for which is the board competitions that are conducted by the Pattaya Windsurf Club. Likewise, the southern and northern parts of Pattaya beach and Jomtien beach are considered an excellent spot for water skiing.

But, the activities that are available at Pattaya are not just confined to water sport activities. For example, Pattaya, together with Chon Buri, offer great facilities for golf lovers, with a number of golf courses designed by world-famous golfers. Similarly, with two alleys of international standards, Pattaya offers excellent choices for activities like bowling. Some great options are available for game lovers, such as paintball, with an exclusive ground in order to play the game. Those visiting the paintball ground can also take a visit to small racing ground nearby, which is especially designed for go-kart racing. A myriad of other activities can also be enjoyed in Pattaya such as traditional Thai massage, taking Thai cooking classes, and learning Thai culture and language.

However, Pattaya provides more than beach, island tours, and nightlife. In addition to water sport activities and shopping, the city provides a feast of attractions for sightseers and nature lovers. Among which, most significant are:

- Million Years Stone Park and Pattaya Crocodile Farm, boasting of beautiful rock gardens, more than 200 years old bonsai trees, and a great collection of animal species such as albino bears and crocodiles

- Elephant Village, where display of training methods as well as elephant rides are available

- Funny Land Amusement Park, which is a great area for both grown-ups and children, with specialties like Swing Vikings Ship, Samba Tower, Slalom Roller Caster, Family Swinger, Demolition Derby, Musical Carousel and a Monorail

- Siriporn Orchid Farm, where you can see an astounding array of orchids such as catteleyas, vandas, daedrovium, escosanda and pompadours

- The Bottle Art Museum, which has on display a great selection of over 300 glass bottles consisting of replicas of churches, palaces, and temples

- Mini Siam, a miniature city with replicas of about 80 sacred places as well as most prominent historical sites in the country

With these umpteen attractions, it is no wonder why people flock here throughout the year. Hence, the growing number of tourists has led to a tremendous increase in the number of hotels and resorts. Pattaya has accommodation to suit every taste and pocket. Luxury lovers can take advantage of upscale hotels and resorts coupled with top-end facilities and comforts.

Many of the hotels and resorts in the area offer excellent packages inclusive of 3 or 4 night accommodation, dining, and facilities to enjoy some of the activities in the area. Some even customize this package according to your requirements. Pattaya underwent a great revival when a troop of American Military, consisting of about 100 servicemen, who joined the Vietnam War came here for relaxation on 29 April 1961.

Holiday in Pattaya

One of the largest cities of tourism in the world, Pattaya is situated in the southeastern part of Bangkok - the capital city of Thailand. Pattaya has lot to offer tourists. It is filled with lot of wonderful attractions and this made the city a popular tourist attraction.

Pattaya was a small unknown fishing village in Thailand till the end of 1960s. By the end of 1960s, some Bangkok residents came here to spend their vacation and made it a local tourist spot. It was used as an official rest and recreation center For the US forces during the Vietnam War. The city's growth to vibrant tourist center was very fast and now-a-days it is considered as Thailand's largest resort.

Pattaya, the beach resort with city status, holds a lot of attraction for every one. Unlike other resorts around the world, Pattaya has good natural surroundings and provides everything you think regarding recreation, entertainment, fun and sightseeing. It is ideal for all kinds of travelers including sports enthusiastic, couples of all ages looking for a break and leisure and those who are just looking for warm sunshine.

You can have the opportunity to visit open-air bars, nightclubs, cabaret shows and discos in the night. South Pattaya is considered as the nightlife center of Thailand. Shopping can be an evening attraction and you can buy Thailand's best buys such as silk, gems and jewelry, tailor made clothing and handicrafts from the malls of Pattaya.

Numerous accommodation facilities are available in Pattaya including luxury hotels with private beaches, bay side hotels and bungalows, economy class hotels and guest houses with small comfort. As Pattaya has an unbelievable option of accommodation to suit every pocket, you can choose your favorite accommodation facility that suits your pocket. Unlike other places, wide range of restaurants are available throughout Pattaya which offers Thai, Chinese, Indian, Japanese, French, German, Italian, Belgian, Lebanese and Mexican cuisines. Everybody can find mouth-watering food here in Pattaya at reasonable price.

There is also an option to go for a trip to offshore islands. You can take water scooters for rent to explore the bay and motorcycles, cars or jeeps to explore the nearby beaches and other tourist spots outside the resort. Tennis lovers can play their favorite game and enjoy in the courts of leading hotels. Pattaya is also a perfect place for golf enthusiasts. There are around 18 golf courses around Pattaya. Most of the courses have international standard with 18 to 27 holes. It is considered as a best place to play golf around the world. You can also enjoy other activities such as bungee jumping, snooker halls, bowling alleys, shooting galleries and archery.

Pattaya is one of the most popular beaches in Thailand and is a mind-blowing place for both tourists and natives alike. The reason why Pattaya has became most popular among the tourists is that the city is situated near the shopping centers, bars and hotels. Visitors can find everything they need without much problem.

Jomtien Beach is another attraction in the city with lots of hotels and restaurants. The beach holds a large amusement center with water park attractions, a roller coaster, a monorail and fun attractions for children. There are several other attractions which Pattaya can offer including places for go-cart racing, Pattaya Beach Resort Water Park, the Sri Racha Tiger Zoo and Funny Land Amusement Park, a crocodile farm and museums. Several shopping centers are there in Pattaya which everybody likes to visit while in Pattaya. Visit this enchanting place for your next vacation.

The Last of a Great Sultan

I bought recently a magazine article entitled 'The Last of a Great Sultan' written by Poultney Bigelow. The article was about Sultan Hashim which makes the article about 100 years old as Sultan Hashim died in 1906. The article was pulled out of Harper's Monthly Magazine. I was clueless about Harper's.Recently I did a quick check on the net and found that Wikipedia has an entry on it: "Harper's

Brunei during the 2nd World War

For my article this Sunday on Brunei Times, I wrote about the history of Brunei during the Second World War. I sent a number of photographs to Brunei Times but I think only one or two are usually selected. So in case you are still wondering how the other photos look like, here they are in full:-These are Australian soldiers along Jalan Muara. They landed in December 1944 and marched from Muara to

Brunei in FIFA

In this football fever season, I thought I will check up on what's going in with Brunei. So in FIFA.com, a new FIFA ranking was in place. Brunei is currently 188 and apparently we went up 2 higher in June. The next ranking will take place on 2 July and that will be interesting as most of the Europeans and South American teams played during the summer.Brunei apparently got 42.5 extra points for

ACTIVITIES AT PATTAYA

Pattaya Is An Excellent Destination To Enjoy A Number Of Activities
By Wolfgang Jaegel

Pattaya is an enchanting tourist spot, situated in Chonburi Province, along a spectacular bay on the eastern coast of the Gulf of Thailand, about 150 km east of Bangkok, in Thailand. Once a sleepy fishing village, Pattaya has now been transformed into one of the premier beach resorts as well as a sought after vacation spots in South East Asia.

However, Pattaya holds the distinction of not only being a picturesque beach destination but also enjoys a status of a full fledged city. Occupying an area of about 209 square kilometers, Pattaya City possesses a status akin to that of a municipality, and is administered by a special autonomous system.

The prime draw of Pattaya is undoubtedly its long curving sandy beaches. Of the beaches in the area, perhaps the most prominent is Pattaya Neau, which is a tranquil beach that stretches from the Dolphin roundabout near Dusit Resort in North Pattaya up to small hill found in the south.

This beach area is truly a haven for enjoying an array of water sports. Also, a popular beach in the region is the Middle Pattaya, whose areas are packed with boutiques, department stores, restaurants, bars, and coffee shops. Likewise, tourists are provided with almost all facilities such as umbrellas, beach chairs, and more.

In short, Middle Pattaya is a not to miss attraction for fun lovers. Nearby Middle Pattaya is yet another popular beach, namely, South Pattaya, which is much famed for its intoxicate night life. Scores of bars, restaurants, shops, and discotheques can be seen in this area.

Popular beaches in Pattaya also include Jomtien Beach, just three kilometers away from the Pattaya Beach. Fringed with beautiful palm and coconut trees, Jomtien Beach is a great spot enjoying activities such as windsurfing and swimming. Koh Lan beach, about seven kilometers off the Pattaya shore, and Wong Beach, are the other prominent beaches in the area.

All these beaches together form base for a number of water sports activities including para gliding, para sailing, jet skiing, kayaking, and snorkeling. Additionally, for diving enthusiasts, even PADI and NAUI courses are available, apart from superb facilities for scuba diving.

However, things to do in Pattaya are not just confined to beaches as well as its activities, but far beyond that. For example, for those who are stressed or tired, one of the best options would be to take a traditional Thai massage and foot massage, which is great to cure backache and stimulate blood circulation throughout the body.

Likewise, if you have come to Pattaya for long stay, then take advantage of centers imparting special learning programs in Thai language as well as culture. One can also make use of Thai cooking classes offered by cooking schools and some restaurants within upscale hotels. Nowadays, tourists are increasingly showing interests in mastering the Thai culinary art, since Thai cuisines are not only delicious but also very healthy.

Apart from these, with more than 20 golf courses of international standards, Pattaya is truly a golfers' paradise. Similarly, superb facilities are available for such outdoor activities as tennis, trekking, and horse riding.

Other than outdoor activities, a great variety of indoor activities can also be enjoyed here such as paintball, which is played in an enclosed area; and bowling with two alleys of international standards.

When comes to things to see in attractions, options are really amazing as well as endless. Just few among many of the incredible attractions in the area are Phra Tamnak Hill, a vantage point to enjoy the breathtaking views of Pattaya; Million Years Stone Park and Pattaya Crocodile Farm, which holds attractions such as a good number of crocodiles, a zoo with an array of wild animals, topiaries, a petrified tree of a million-year-old, and a variety of grotesque rocks.

Sriracha Tiger Zoo, where you can see a number of tigers, pigs, and dogs, living comfortably; Mini Siam and Mini Europe, a miniature with more than 100 models of prominent objects as well as historical sites; Pattaya Elephant Sanctuary, a private sanctuary where one can interact with elephants and can see how they live as well as work.

Suan Nong Nooch, a Thai village like recreational park; and Khao Kheow Open Zoo, which is the largest zoo in Thailand. For ultimate recreation and fun, Pattaya offers attractions including Pattaya Water Park and Underwater World Pattaya. Above all, there is also a great number of interesting museums in the region, such as the Bottle Art Museum.

With these umpteen attractions, it is not a wonder why about five million tourists from across the world flock to this exotic destination year-round.

SNORKELING AT SIMILAN ISLAND

Snorkeling Point at Similan Island

Within the 9 major islands of the national park provides snorkeling points as follows:

1. Ao Kuak, often known as Hin Rua Bai, it's good for night snorkeling to see the hard corals where the "Khi Tang Ped" fish have been discovered in big school.

2. Ao Kwang Aen, is boasted of the best place for hard corals view of Similan National Park, offering the very interesting strong coral that can not find elsewhere Pang Lang Khud Nom coral. Moreover, many kinds of sea turtles can also be found in this area.

3. Hin Dok Mai, the only area of Similan Island that a diver can see coral reefs of deep sea just by skin diving at low tides.

4. Behind Koh Meang, it's the nearest diving point to the office of the national park. Visitors can take a short distance walk to a small beach where it is a closed bay that very suitable for wildlives spectacles.

DIVING AT SIMILAN ISLAND

Scuba diving points at Similan Island (north to south)

1.Underwater rocks out of Koh Tachai, located to the west from Koh Tachai, they look like a stone peak drowned in the sea and surrounded by schools of fish such as Barracudas and "Hu Chang" fish. Moreover, it's said that plenty of rays and whale sharks are found in the area as well.

2. Koh Bon is a tiny island located to the north of Similan Island. The diving point is located around the undersea rocks at the end of west cape. White-finned sharks and frog-sharks have often been found there.

3. Christmas Point, situated in the northwest of Koh Ba Ngu, where the blue-ribbon eels, golden mud fish, mantis prawns and grasshoppers including huge fish such as gray sharks, white-fin sharks as well as sting rays are often seen.

4. Fantasy Rocks is the diving point of Similan islands consisting of 3 piles of rocks that should never miss. Almost all kinds of marine lives such as the blue-ribbon eels, golden-mud fish and any sort of prawns are found.

5. Ao Kwang Aen Bay is located to the eastern coast of Koh Pad with coral reefs along a steep slope of sea depth. It's an ideal place to study various corals and reefs and sea turtles are often found.

6. Laem Prapakharn (lighthouse cape), situated near Ao Kwang Aen, but it's next down to the end of the cape. At the depth of 100 feet, there are 2 rocks that are full of soft corals and covered by variety of corals and reefs.

7. Hin Hua Kalok is another point for diving where diversity of marine lives such as prawns, crabs and sting rays are found wandering in this area.

8. Hin Sam Kon is one of the most beautiful diving points in the area, there are coral reefs at the depth of 40-120 feet where white-fin sharks are often found.

9. Hin Dok Mai is also of the most beautiful diving points of the Similan Islands that coral reefs can be seen, especially at the mooring buoy, there is plenty of colorful corals and many sorts of corals that can not be seen elsewhere.

10. Hua Koh Meang, known as the very deep diving site that is not suitable for the beginners, however, several kinds of fish such as Ronin fish, Ronan fish as well as huge skates are often seen in the area.

11. Suan Pla Lai, situated to the eastern side of Koh Ha, it provides a wide sandy ground where a kind of eel called Garden Eel which hundreds of them live in the sand. They are very sensitive to strangers, so it's not recommended the close-up watch.

12. Shark Point is a deep diving point with stones protruding from the sea in the south from Similan, near Koh Payang. Both sharks and sting rays are always seen there.

13. Kum Phang Muang Chin (China Great Wall). A line of stone, looks alike the China Great Wall, extending from the Sharks Point, it offers a wide range for diving that provide a lot of immense sea fans along the rocky line.

The Bang Toang Long House in Sukang

Last week, I was accompanying my Minister for a Hari Gawai celebration at Bang Toang located at Mukim Sukang, Belait. I am not really sure how far Bang Toang is but I would say it is a good 150+ km from Bandar. You have to drive left at the Sungai Liang simpang. Then drive until you see the Sungai Mau/Merangking simpang and then drive through there all the way to the southern end of the Belait

Brunei's Latest Debts

I saw Reuters picked up on our Ministry of Finance's press release on the latest issuance of sukuk:-KUALA LUMPUR, June 23 (Reuters) - Brunei has sold B$28 million ($20.5 million) of 91-day Islamic bonds at a yield of 0.88 percent, the government said.The issue, which matures on Sept 18, is the 14th sale of short-term Islamic securities based on the "ijarah" or leasing arrangement.With this issue,

Padang Besar in Bandar

[Note: This was my article that appeared in Brunei Times yesterday.]NOT that many nations' capital cities have a field in the middle of them.Tourists often wonder why Brunei's capital city of Bandar Seri Begawan has a nice big field situated in the middle of it. Not many realised the historic role of that field. If that field could talk, the stories it could tell would astound many.The Padang

Our Ambuyat

[Note: I found this article on our national food 'Ambuyat' written for Denver Post by John Henderson and syndicated on the The Times of South Africa (of all place!). Ambyuat indeed is an acquired taste.] If Bruneians want to expand tourism, they’ll need to hide their national speciality.I saw the sultan of Brunei the other day. He walked right by me as he entered a national Qur’an reading contest

The Love Document

Remember the late Sudirman? He was a lawyer though not many people knew that. Well, we have our own singing lawyer, Hans Anwar, though many Bruneians would know him for his singing and not for his legal practise.I don't know his legal prowess but I do know his singing prowess. This new CD containing 15 of his newest songs written mostly by him not only shows his singing capability but also his

Just Like the Others

What can 4 good Bruneian singers and a Malaysian producer come up with? A surprisingly good CD. 'Seperti Yang Lain' is the product of that combination. 4 Brunei singers - Fakhrul Razi, Fairuneezan, Faiz and Sri Nazrina produced the album under Julfekar, a Malaysian producer who owns MillenniumArt Sdn Bhd. The album was produced with the cooperation of Brunei's Phuture Phase Productions.All the

PHUKET THAILAND

Phuket is Thailand's biggest island. The water itself may not beas breathtaking as Phi Phi or Similan island, but it's stillbeautiful. My suggestion is you stay at Phuket and then take aboat to Phi Phi, Similan or other smaller nearby islands for asnorkeling or diving trip.

Phuket Thailand becomes lively during the night -- with all thepubs, bars and restaurants opening until midnight or later. Youcan choose to stay at your hotel and have romantic dinner there. Or you can choose to take a stroll at Phuket's popular Patong beach for some night scene. Phuket has dozens of beaches.Each has tens, if not hundreds, of hotels. If you don't like acrowded beach with hundreds of restaurants and bars, stay awayfrom Patong beach.

Looking to find a nice Phuket Thailand hotel that's just perfectfor your budget? No problem. I'll recommend some nice hotels for you. Well, if you don't mind a very huge lagoon next to the beach and a very big resort hotel, then stay at the Laguna Phuket. Actually at the Laguna Phuket, there are five hotels(yes, it's that BIG -- Allamanda, Banyan Tree, Dusit Laguna,Laguna Beach, and Sheraton Grande Laguna). They're all beautifuland luxurious. So, expect to spend from $100 to over $300 a night, depending on the resort you choose. And there's this secluded private hotel that I really --really--love... The Chedi Phuket. For me, the price is just right too.It's a little over $100. But you'd be glad to pay a lot morethan that for a hotel room this cozy. And let me tell you, theprivate beach right in front of the Chedi is a lot morebeautiful than other beaches in Phuket too.

Most foreigners (especially Westerners) I know like to stay atMom Tri's Boat House. I don't know why. I haven't stayed there,so I can't tell you. But I just know for a fact they 'really'like to stay there. The price is around $70. This resorthotel is designed by a well-known architect of Thailand. So 70bucks a night is a steal.

Now if you're willing to stay off Phuket island, then I suggestyou stay at the Racha on Racha island. It's only 20 minutes awayfrom Phuket. It's a private and totally gorgeous resort island.The beach is white, sandy and just beautiful. The resort itselfis beyond explanation. Plus, the price is just a few bucks over$100.

PHUKET COMMENT

Some people might look for complete solitude during a tropicalisland vacation to get away from it all, but no matter howblissful beach holidays can be, some long for great night lifeas well.

For those of you who wish to go to an island where there arealso some exciting night life activities, check out this list of5 of the world's top tropical destinations where you cansunbathe by day and party by night.

Ibiza, Spain

This is the Place to go for the best night life and partyscenes. From its bars, to its clubs, to its fun-loving people,Ibiza has long been the world's best destination for parties andmore parties.

So what do you do in Ibiza? First, remember that there's alwayssomething new going on. So know first what's hot for the day orthe week you're visiting and make sure you make the best of anyevent in town.

If you'd rather not do this research and prefer to bespontaneous, then just go to any of its many clubs and you'repractically guaranteed a great night out.

True to almost every night hangout in Spain, life doesn't reallystart until the bell strikes 12! So make sure you get a siestain because with everything that Ibiza offers, that's about theonly sleep you'll get!

Phuket Thailand

The exotic splendors of Bangkok's palaces may not grace Phuket,but if you want to be by the beach all day and party all nightin Siam, then Phuket is a great place to be. For those who really want to party, Patong is where the island'sbars, clubs and discotheques are. If you've got the kids withyou, you might also want to visit Phuket Fantasea on Kamala Beach, which is the islands version of a festival and culturalevent -a place to sample Thai theater, eat great Thai food, playgames, and go shopping.

On the other hand, if you want to go some place a bit tamer, Karon Beach is an excellent place for restaurants with some goodfood and great cocktails . And if you want a classier and MUCHquieter ambiance, go to Bangtao bay.

Short History of Brunei's RKN

[Note: The following article was published on Sunday in my Golden Legacy column on Brunei Times. I got rapped by the economic planning people for calling the ninth RKN, the ninth RKN and despite that being the ninth RKN, it should not be called the ninth RKN. I guess them planning people used a different numerical scale. Heh. Anyway, it is officially called RKN 2007-2012. By the way, the code in

PATTAYA THAILAND

Below, you'll find extensive information on leading pattaya thailand articles and products to help you on your way to success.

Condo Boom In Pattaya - An Excellent Long Term Investment
By Wantanee Khamkongkaew

Thailand is one of the most popular destinations to live in. It is even better when you prefer to live in Pattaya, an incredible island destination, situated in the northern Gulf Coast of Thailand. The city of Pattaya is dotted with an amazing range of attractions covering superb beaches, picturesque landscapes, interesting museums and art galleries, beautiful parks and gardens, sumptuous as well as authentic seafood cuisines, and exciting nightlife.

The cost of living in Pattaya is exceptionally cheap when compared to other popular cities of the country, such as, Bangkok. Further, its great culture, salubrious climate, and presence of amicable Thai people all have made Pattaya truly a unique destination. Perhaps for these reasons, many people, especially westerns, choose Pattaya as their retirement destination, apart from a holiday destination. Many organizations function here exclusively for the welfare of expatriates, including, Expats Club of Pattaya, UK Club of Pattaya, and Pattaya Sports Club. Hence, it is no wonder why property market is booming in Pattaya.

A spectrum of properties is available in Pattaya. From affordable and stunning bungalows and villas to apartments and gated communities like flats, accommodation choices in Pattaya are vivid and colorful. However, with the flow of westerners as well as the increased demand for western style of accommodation, the demand for condos is greater than ever before. Many foreigners even prefer to acquire land and build houses as per their tastes and requirements.

However, expenses in connection with the building of single detached houses are quite high. Additionally, in order to own a land and build a house by a foreigner, certain legal tangles are associated with it. For instance, if you are a foreigner, you must require either a Thai spouse or a legitimate company to acquire a land in the region.

But, when comes to owning a condominium unit in Pattaya, the Thai government does not enforce any kind of precincts, except for some requirements to be complied with under the Condominium Act of 1979, including bringing in 100% of cash for the purchase of condominium unit in foreign currency and recording of it through a local Thai bank on a Foreign Exchange Transaction Form (FETF), which is regarded as an evidence to present it to the Land Department office.

Probably for this reason, nowadays both foreigners and natives prefer to own and stay in condominium units. Many of the upscale condo units in Pattaya are centered around such areas as Bang Saray and Tawanron beach, Jomtien beach, and Wong Amat beach.

On the basis of your lifestyle, budget, and preferences, different types of condo units are now available in Pattaya, from low cost condos to high end luxury condos. Condo units are also available depending upon the number of members in your family. You can choose from a range of condominiums in Pattaya, such as, apartment model, townhouse, and sometimes even in the form of a single detached structure.

No matter it is of any model, a condo unit in Pattaya comes complete with amenities such as superb bedrooms attached with relaxed beds, expansive living rooms, sophisticated kitchen, and bathing area with uninterrupted water supply. Some luxury condominium properties are replete with most modern facilities such as game rooms, laundry facilities, whirlpool spas and saunas, pools, meeting rooms, and parking areas.

A plethora of benefits can be derived from owning a condominium in Pattaya. Foremost is that condo living in Pattaya enables you to live in a well-controlled community. Another key benefit of living in condo is security, since many of the condo units are coupled with most sophisticated monitoring system. Low interior and exterior maintenance costs and access to superb facilities such as elevators and swimming pools are the other benefits of living in a condo unit.

In addition, buying a condominium in Pattaya is regarded as an excellent long term investment, guaranteeing good returns. But, the price of condominium units is exceptionally high in contrast to other accommodations options such as apartments and single houses.

With the introduction of the internet, purchasing or renting a condominium in Pattaya is no longer a tiresome process. Scores of realtors as well as real estate firms, property builders, and consultants, are now in the scenario to help in fetching your dream condo unit in Pattaya. Majority of them have their own websites, with details including expected price, amenities available and pictures of the condominium, it allows for convenient purchasing of a condominium. Further, many of them customize condo units according to your specifications

PATTAYA HOTEL

Below, you'll find extensive information on leading pattaya hotel articles and products to help you on your way to success.

Pattaya - A Premier Vacation Spot In South-east Asia
By Wolfgang Jaegel

Pattaya is one of the most enchanting beach resorts in the world, located along a spectacular bay on the Gulf of Thailand's east coast, about 150 kilometers south-east of Bangkok, in Thailand. A fishing village turned South-East Asia's most favorite vacation spot - Pattaya is much popular among the westerners including Americans and Europeans and is regarded as a great alternative over taking a tour to swarming Spanish destination or a pricey Caribbean destination.

In fact, Pattaya has everything to spend an enjoyable vacation, from awe-inspiring natural beauty, warm climate throughout the year and beautiful beaches to ancient shrines, world-famous hospitality, and sumptuous cuisines. No matter you are beach bums, honeymooners, couples celebrating anniversaries, or family vacationers, Pattaya has superb choices to cater to every type of tourist.

Perhaps the prime attraction that draws visitors to Pattaya is undoubtedly its incredible long stretches of curvy beaches. Pattaya boasts of two picturesque beaches, the main beach being the Pattaya Beach, located along the Pattaya Beach Road. The Beach's surroundings are action packed and contain a plenty of top-notch hotels, restaurants, and bars. Further, the Pattaya Beach is a paradise for enjoying a range of fun-filled as well as adventure activities, especially scuba diving.

Located just ten minutes drive from the Pattaya Beach is another popular beach in the destination, namely, Jomtien Beach, which is regarded as a mecca for enjoying activities such as wind surfing. As in the case of the main beach, this beach area is also packed with an array of upscale hotels, resorts, and restaurants. Other popular beaches in the vicinity are Naklua Beach, which is much favored for its tranquil atmosphere; Ko Lan, a lone island with a number of beautiful white sandy beaches; Bang Saen Beach, located about eight kilometers from the provincial capital of Chonburi; and Ko Si Chang bestowed with awesome beaches and magnificent limestone caves as well as ancient temples.

Aside beaches and water sport activities, Pattaya has a plenty of interesting things to see and do. Points of interest, among many others, in are the Million Years Stone Park and Pattaya Crocodile Farm, featuring sights such as more than a million years aged fossil plants, 200-year-old bonsai, crocodile pools, and rare animals like albino bears; Khao Pattaya, a small hill offering breathtaking vistas of Pattaya City as well as Pattaya Bay; Suan Chaloemphrakiat, a fitness park with fitness facilities and jogging trails; the Bottle Art Museum, which has on display a large number of art works graced in glass bottles.

Elephant Village, where elephant shows are conducted; Sanctuary of Truth, noted for its intricate architectural designs; Monkey Training Center, where apart from monkey shows, snake shows and cock fighting are also conducted; Horseshoe Point Club, a great spot for all levels of people to enjoy horse riding; Suan Nong Nooch, a recreational park with beautiful tropical gardens; Romance of the Three Kingdoms Park, a park with a variety of Chinese style objects and buildings; Pattaya Amusement Park, whose tower houses a revolving restaurant; and Mini Siam.

A visit to Pattaya would be incomplete without taking a tour to interesting shrines in the region such as Wat Yansangwararam, a modern temple complex with buildings built in several architectural types reflecting Indian, Chinese, and Japanese styles; and Wat Khao Cheejan, where one can see a huge image of Buddha carved out in gold on a mountain.

When comes to activities, Pattaya provides opportunities for the visitors to indulge in an array of activities, with such facilities as state of the art bowling centers, international standard golf courses, and facilities for activities like bungee jumping. Superb facilities are also available for weary travelers in the form spa centers and fitness establishments.

With a plenty of things to see and do, it is not a wonder why people from across the world frequent here year-round and majority of the westerners choose this place to retire. Hence, Pattaya has a plethora of accommodation choices for every type of tourist. For short term tourists, hotels and resorts would be best choice. But for long stays and people vacationing with large family, one of the best accommodation options in villas. A variety of villas are available, from budget type to most sophisticated ones replete with top-end facilities and amenities.

PATTAYA - 3

Below, you'll find extensive information on leading pattaya articles and products to help you on your way to success.

Villa Rentals In Pattaya - A Unique Experience With Top End Comforts
By Wolfgang Jaegel

Pattaya is perhaps the most popular tourist spot of international standards in Thailand, after Phuket. Sometimes acknowledged as the fun capital of the country - Pattaya is an island destination situated in Chonburi Province, in the Gulf of Thailand. Pattaya is especially noted for its stunning scenery comprising incredible sea shores, gorgeous waterfalls, lush tropical areas, and stupendous bays. Highlights in Pattaya also cover everything from beautiful temples and interesting museums to fabulous villages and farms.

Few among them are the Bottle Art Museum, with an amazing selection of artworks contained in glass bottles; Ripley's Believe it or not Museum, an unusual museum; Mini Siam, a miniature city featuring replicas of more than 50 sacred places as well as historic sites; Elephant Village, where regular elephant shows are conducted; the Million Years Stone Park & Crocodile Farm, with a crocodile pool, apart from fossil plants of over a million years old; Siriporn Orchid Farm, with an array of mind blowing orchids.

Khao View Point, offering breathtaking views; Underwater World Pattaya, which is one of the most modern as well as largest aquariums in Asia; and the Sanctuary of the Truth. Pattaya is also much famed for its gorgeous white sandy beaches such as North Pattaya beach, which is a serene beach that stretches from the Dolphin roundabout; Middle Pattaya, which is a fun filled area packed with an array of boutiques, shopping malls, restaurants, coffee shops, and bars; South Pattaya, whose area is lined with numerous night clubs; and Jomtien Beach, a great spot for swimming.

In fact, Pattaya has everything to spend a relaxed as well as memorable vacation. Hence, the destination provides people touring the place with a range of accommodation options from hotels and resorts to apartments and condominium style options. Despite these options, one of the most popular choices that are suitable for visitors looking for a unique experience is villas attached with top end comforts. It is also a great choice for those interested in self catered vacation as well as for those looking for an economic choice.

A variety of villa options are available in Pattaya. For instance, if you are vacationing with large family or groups, then villas with more than five or six bedrooms plus expansive living areas and fully equipped kitchens are the most suitable. Likewise, special villas are available that are exclusively designed for honeymooning couples. Usually, these types of villas come with facilities such as artistically appointed bedrooms, marbled bath areas, private pools, services of professional chefs, and bouquet of flowers. Additionally, there are superb villas that are suitable for aged tourists.

For well-healed, a host of choices are available in the form of luxury holiday villas. Luxury villas are mostly coupled with two or three air conditioned as well as tastefully decorated bedrooms, specious living and dining areas that offer breathtaking sights of surroundings; tropical gardens, terrace, and round the clock security services.

A variety of villa choices are also available in Pattaya that are especially built to cater to the requirements of European and American travelers. These villas are of mostly international standards, and would be, in most instances, attached with all facilities and amenities that a world-class resort or hotel renders. These types of villas usually feature fresco dining facilities, bedroom with antique beds, rooms with French doors, kitchens that are perfect for gourmet cooking, and covered parking areas.

Many of the villa providers in the scenario now provide services in the form of packages, covering airport transfers, facilities for sightseeing, rental cars, rental equipments for enjoying different water sport activities, and services of daily maid and gardener. Some of them even customize packages according to the unique requirements of guests. There are also some service providers that render special discounts when you make bookings of a particular villa or during a stipulated time period.

With the introduction of the internet, one can easily find a villa service provider in Pattaya. Since many of the service providers have their own sites in the web and that too attached with features and rent details of villas, this in turn enables a tourist to find a villa that goes with his tastes and budget.

PATTAYA - 2

Below, you'll find extensive information on leading pattaya articles and products to help you on your way to success.

Pattaya Show Off Implausible Alternatives Of Accommodation
By Wolfgang Jaegel

Pattaya is an incredible destination in Thailand, located on the eastern coast of the Gulf of Thailand in Chonburi region, about 147 kilometers southeast of Bangkok. Occupying an area of about 208 square kilometers, Pattaya is much favored tourist spot among the westerners including Americans and Europeans. Hence, Pattaya is visited by people from all around the globe, as the place has got its own magnificence and hence sure to enchant you with nonstop activities. With awe-inspiring natural beauty, warm climate throughout the year and beautiful beaches, ancient shrines, world-famous hospitality, and sumptuous cuisines, Pattaya has everything to spend an enjoyable vacation. Once a typical fishing village, Pattaya boasts of many factors that attract people towards this enthralling place and few of them are: Alangkarn Theatre: featuring the presentation of Thai culture from every aspects of life i.e, they present programs other than the standard Thai traditional dances; Cabaret Shows, which includes daily three shows with an extra one on Saturdays.

Horseshoe Point Club, which enables travelers for horse riding for all states of knack and dressage, cross-country jumping and polo; Mini Siam, a marvelous place of minuscule models of dazzling Thai architecture such as Democracy Monument, Temple of the Emerald Buddha, Bridge over the River Kwai, Prasat Hin Phimai; the paintball ground enable the players huge compounds along with the administration with protection dress and masks for safety; and Bamrung Sport Club, providing instructions and conveniences for water sports such as windsurfing, para-motor, para gliding and sailing.

Pattaya Elephant Village, which offers the display of daily life of the elephant and its masters, the village also provides stage shows which exhibit the capturing of wild elephants, elephants at work in jungle, playing football, grand war as well as the elephant's parade; the Bhira International Circuit, where you can spectacle international two wheeler and four wheeler races. If interested opportunities are available for the enthusiasts to ride all around the exigent circuit.

The Lakeland Water Cable Ski, providing cable ski equipments to ski on the freshwater lake; Pattaya Kart Speedway: with vast areas of several segments; K.R. Go-kart Grandprix, an international standard tract for racing offering performance grand prix racing karts; Jungle Bungee Jump, the only company which takes accident insurance for the players.

The Pattaya Park, with a huge water park which has a tower enabled with revolving restaurant as well as giant sliders in the water park; the World Dog Centre with excess of 250 diverse species of dogs as well as provide stage shows daily with well-trained police dogs four times a day; Underwater World Pattaya, which is one of the largest aquariums in Asia with pedestrian tunnel underwater to enjoy the environment with different species of marine life.

There are services of accommodation ranging from luxury villas with private beaches to bay side hotels as well bungalows, to reasonable priced hotels and guest house. Choice is left to you while villas rental in Pattaya is needed for luxury or for reasonable priced hotels.

An additional feature must be added to this magnificent destination is the food and pleasure enjoyed by the food, its taste cannot be beaten by any resorts in this region of the world presenting numerous restaurants with different choicest to taste and to enjoy. Pattaya makes it a choice for the active travelers as the destination is one among the oldest diving centre in this region of Asia.

Quite often the travelers find it difficult to get the desired villa or villa next to the destination while the seasonal time. It has become an authentic problem for the visitors to the town avoiding it for the season and missing the beauty of the entire occasion.

THONG SALA - 3

On a quiet hillside above Ban Tai, 4km from Thong Sala, Wat Khao Tham holds ten-day meditation retreats most months of the year; the American and Australian teachers emphasize compassion and loving kindness as the basis of mental development. Only forty people can attend each retreat, so it’s best to pre-register; for further information, write to Wat Khao Tham, PO Box 18, Pha Ngan Island, Surat Thani 84280, where the schedule of retreats is posted.

If you need to stay around Thong Sala, walk 800m north out of town to Siriphun. The owner is helpful, the food very good and the bungalows are clean and well positioned along the beach; all have showers and mosquito screens on the windows, and an extra wad of baht buys air-con and one of the island’s few bathtubs. Alternatively, Charm Beach Resort, a friendly, sprawling place only 1500m southeast of Thong Sala, has a wide variety of decent bungalows and good Thai food. The incongruous white high-rise overshadowing Thong Sala’s pier is the Pha Ngan Chai Hotel, makes a fair stab at international standard features, with air-conditioning, warm water, TVs, mini-bars and, in some rooms, sea-view balconies.

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In the vicinity of Thong Sala, an easy excursion can be made to the grandiosely termed Than Sadet-Pha Ngan Island National Park, which contains Pang waterfall, Pha Ngan’s biggest drop, and a stunning viewpoint overlooking the south and west of the island. The park lies 4km northeast of Thong Sala off the road to Chaloaklam – if you don’t have a bike, take a Chaloaklam bound songthaew as far as Ban Madeuawaan, and then it’s a one-kilometer signposted walk east. A roughly circular trail has been laid out through the park, as mapped out by the signboard in the car park. The main fall – bouncing down in stages over the hard, grey stone – is a steep 250m walk up a forest path. The trail then continues for over 1km upriver beyond the falls, before skirting through thick rainforest to the viewpoint and back to the car park in a couple of hours.

The long, straight south coastis well served by songthaews and motorbike taxis from Thong Sala, and is lined with bungalows, especially around Ban Khai, to take the overspill from nearby Hat Rin. It’s hard to recommend staying here, however the beaches are mediocre by Thai standards, and the coral reef which hugs the length of the shoreline gets in the way of swimming.

Borneo Cinema, Bandar Seri Begawan

I know I am a part time historian cause I write and do research on Brunei history, I am also a philatelist because I collect Brunei stamps, first day covers and related philatelic materials and I am also a numismatist because I collect Brunei currency notes, coins from ancient to modern times as well as other currencies. What most people do not know that I am also a deltiologist. And no, this has

Brunei, 1963

I found this book on ebay and decided to purchase it. For once, it did not cost me a fortune but it does provide some interesting insights what other people think about Brunei.This book is part of a series of books written for West Malaysians and Singapore to know more about their 'neighbours' thus Our Neighbours Series. The series was published in 1963.I am not sure who the book was aimed at. It

THONG SALA - 1

THONG SALA is a port of entrance and little more, where the incoming ferries are met by touts sent to escort travelers to bungalows elsewhere on the Pha Ngan Island. In front of the pier, transportation to the rest of the island (songthaews, jeeps and motorbike taxis) congregates by a dusty row of banks, travelers’ restaurants, supermarkets, scuba-diving outfits and motor bike and jeep rental places. If you go straight ahead from the pier, you can turn right onto the town’s high street, a leafy mix of shops and houses that’s ghostly and windswept at night. A short way down here you’ll find laundries and, set back on the west side of the street, the multitalented Phangan Batik, which, besides selling batiks, rents out good-quality nountain bikes and offers internet access. Further on are a couple of clinics and, about 500m from the pier, the post office. Thong Sala’s sprinkling of travel agents can organize train and plane tickets, and visa extensions, and they sometimes put together trips to Ang Thong National Marine Park. The island’s hospital lies 3km north of town, on the inland road towards Mae Hat, while the police station is nearly up the Ban Chaloaklam road.

Pha Ngan Map

Brunei Days by TS Monks

I was rereading one of my Brunei books when I came across this one by TS Monks. This is so far the only book that I know that was written about Brunei at the end of the Second World War. Captain Monks, a British officer was seconded to the Australian Army and was part of the returning forces forcing the Japanese out of Brunei and Borneo.He and another officer were tasked to jumpstart the new

Canoeing & Kayaking - Krabi

Canoeing and kayaking are two ways to enjoy the spectacular seascape, limestone cliffs and caves in Krabi's waters as these sports allow visitors to explore hidden offshore areas at a more leisurely pace. Canoeing and kayaking operators are available at Ao Nang. Photos by ccdoh1 from flickr.com

Fossils Shell Beach - Krabi

Susan Hoi features a slab formed from a huge number of embedded various types of mollusks which can be dated to approximately 40 million years ago. This shell graveyard at Ban Laem Pho was once a large freshwater swamp, the habitat of diverse mollusks. With changes on the surface of the earth, seawater flooded the freshwater swamp and the limestone elements in the seawater enveloped the submerged mollusks resulting in a homogenous layer of fossilized mollusk shells forty centimeters thick known as Shelley Limestone. With geographical upheavals, the limestone layer is now distributed in great broken sheets of impressive magnitude on the seashore. The site is located 17 kilometers from the town.

Noppharat Thara Beach

Located 6 kilometers from Ao Nang is a famous 3-kilometer long white sandy beach lined with dense casuarinas and coconut groves. The beach, paved with tiny seashells, was formerly called "Hat Khlong Haeng", which means dried canal beach by locals, because the canal dries up during low tide and the area turns into a long beach. Situated 18 kilometers north-west of Krabi, Hat Noppharat Thara is in fact part of Hat Noppharat Thara-Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park and is the location of the Park headquarters. This Park covers a large area both onshore and offshore and. Reservations for accommodations on the beach should be made in advance at the Forestry Department in Bangkok, contact tel. (02) 5797223, 5795734, or at Hat Noppharat Thara National Park, P.O. Box 23, Amphoe Mueang, Krabi 81000, tel. (075) 6347436.
Ferry services to Ko Phi Phi are provided from this beach all year round. This beach can be reached by songthaew from the city at the rate of 20 baht and to travel further to Ao Nang, it will cost an additional 10 baht.

Diving & Snorkeling Krabi

Like Phang-nga, Krabi offers a great opportunity for diving due to its numerous natural marine resources including over a hundred offshore islands. Dive shops around Rai Le and Ao Nang provide dive trips as well as rent diving and snorkeling gear such as mask/snorkel/fin at the rate of 150 baht/ set/ day (with a deposit of 500 baht).
The advantage of diving from Ao Nang is the nearby sites in the Poda Island group, where water visibility is better than that of the mainland, but not as good as Phi Phi. There are 15 dive sites off of Ao Nang, all reachable with a 20 to 60-minute boat ride. For experienced divers there is a 50-meter long cave at 5-12 meters depth at Yawabon Island behind Poda. The water visibility is at its best from November to April. Some Ao Nang dive shops close during low season, May to October, while some (Ao Nang Divers for instance) remain open all year long. Two local dives in the Poda/Yawasam group cost approximately 1,900 baht. Four-day PADI open water courses have risen to 10,000 baht. For more information contact either Seafan, Aquavision, Poseidon, Phra Nang, Stingray, Ao Nang Divers (in Krabi Seaview), or Coral Diving (Krabi Resort). Unlike Phi Phi, scuba dive operators in Ao Nang close from May to October. Photo by sigkyrre / Flickr

Rai Ley Beach

This beach is generally divided into two sections, east and west. West Rai Le provides visitors with peace and quiet as it is a broad sandy beach with fewer facilities than Ao Nang.
East Rai Le which lies across the peninsula from West Rai Le is different from other beaches in the area as it could actually be classified as a mud flat, especially during low tide. In addition to remarkable views and mangrove forests to the north of the beach, the main attraction for visitors to Hat Rai Le is the adrenaline pumping activity of cliff climbing. The limestone cliffs on the huge headland between Hat Rai La East and Tham Phra Nang, as well as other nearby islands provide world-class rock climbing facilities against a stunning backdrop of the sea with approximately 700 sport routes of mid to high difficulty ratings.
source: tourismthailand.org

Mu Ko Poda

Situated south of Ao Nang, 8 kilometres offshore, Mu Ko Poda is fringed by clear waters, and offers white sandy beaches, as well as, pristine coral reefs. This is why it is a year-round attraction and an excellent place for fishing because it is not affected so much by the monsoon. Mu Ko Poda can be reached within 25 minutes by boat from Ao Nang. Many noteworthy islands like Ko Thap, Ko Mo, Ko Hua Khwan, and Ko Kai are situated nearby. A beautiful sandy beach, connecting these islands, is visible at low tide.

Thale Waek (Separated Sea)

One of Thailand's unseen highlights, Thale Waek is situated along Ko Dam Khwan. As the tide recedes, the sea is gradually separated by the white sand and limestone beach that will appear to amazingly connect the two islands at low tide. The best time to visit Thale Waek is 5 days before and after the full moon from December to beginning of May. To visit Thale Waek, proceed on Highway No. 4034 from the city, then turn left and follow Highway No. 4202 to Ao Nang. Rental boats with a maximum of 8 - 10 passengers are available at a rate of 800 – 1,000 baht.

Hat Chao Mai National Park

This area, which was proclaimed a marine national park on 14 October 1982, covers the 2 districts of Kantang and Sikao. The park headquarters is situated at Chang Lang Beach in Tambon Mai Fat, approximately 47 kilometers from the city.Hat Chao Mai has a 20-kilometer coastline and a 5-kilometer long white sandy beach which is set against shady casuarinas and limestone hills with caves. Most caves are of historical importance as prehistoric human remains are found.Land-based attractions of the park are Pak Meng Beach, Chang Lang Beach, San Beach, Yao Beach, Yong Ling Beach, Chao Mai Beach, and Chao Mai Cave. All are easily accessible by car. Moreover, there are 7 other islands for which the park is responsible. They are Ko Muk, Ko Kradan, Ko Chueak, Ko Pling, Ko Waen, Ko Meng, and Ko Chao Mai. The park also features the Marine Natural Study Center (tel. 0-7521-0664) and the Tourist Service Center.
In the national park, endangered dugong can be spotted along with rare black-necked stork. More common wildlife includes macaques, languors, wild pigs, pangolins, pacific-reef egrets, etc.
Accommodations are available on the island. For more details, please contact the National Parks Division, Royal Forestry Department, tel. 0-2561-2920 - 1 or Hat Chao Mai National Park, Mu 5, Tambon Mai Fat, Amphoe Sikao, Trang, P.O. Box 9, tel. 0-7521- 0099. Admission fee to the national park is 200 bahts / person.

Surat Thani

The largest province of the South located 685 kilometers from Bangkok is Surat Thani the province with a name that literally means "City of the Good People". A former capital of the Srivijaya Empire, the province covers an area of approximately 12,891 square kilometers.

Surat Thani Province borders the Gulf of Thailand to the north and east, Chumphon Province to the north, Nakhon Si Thammarat and Krabi Provinces to the south, Phang-Nga and Ranong Provinces to the west and Nakhon Si Thammarat Province to the east.High plateaus and forested mountains are located to the west of the province, while there are low basins in the center and along the eastern coast. This topography has created 14 river basins including Tapee, Pum Duang, Tha Thong, Tha Krajai, Chaiya, Tha Chang which are the most important basins. All rivers in Surat Thani flow east of the province to the Gulf of Thailand.

Chumphon

Chumphon is a sea coast city parallel to the Gulf of Thailand. It is the gateway to other southern provinces. Along more than 200 kilometres of Chumphons seashore, there are many beautiful and picturesque beaches. Still maintaining the natural beauty, the province is best for those who seek relaxation in the natural and uniquely quiet atmosphere.Historical documents state that Chumphon was continuously the locations of many communities since the pre-historic period, especially in the area near Tha Taphao River banks. Chumphon was also one of the leading trading centers of Siam (former name of Thailand).Due to being the frontier city, the name Chumphon is believed to derive from Chumnumphon, which means the accumulation of forces. Whenever there were movements from the army, the soldiers would gather their forces here at this province.The other source believed that it should be derived from a local plant named Maduea Chumphon due to its richness in this area. Therefore, naturally, this plant has become a symbol of the logo of Chumphon. Source: http://www.tourismthailand.org/

Rayong

Located approximately 220 kilometers from Bangkok is another delightful resort on Thailand’s eastern coast – Rayong province. A late bloomer, the province is well known for its pristine beaches stretching along a 100-kilometer coastline and scenic waterfalls amidst exotic surroundings.

Aside from this, Rayong is blessed with an abundance of seafood products such as shrimp paste, fish sauce and dried seafood, and tropical fruits of which rambutan, mangosteen and durian are the most famous.Covering a total area of 3,552 square kilometers, Rayong borders Chonburi Province on the north and the west, the Gulf of Thailand on the south, and Chantaburi Province on the east.

Most of the land is marked by a series of mountains interspersed by flat plains and large tracts of forest and fruit plantations. Administratively, the province is divided into Mueang Rayong, Klaeng, Ban Khai, Bang Chang, Pluak Daeng and Wang Chan districts and Khao Chamao and Nikhom Phatthana Sub-districts.Boasting indispensable sea-life resources, Rayong is one of the country’s major agricultural and industrial provinces. On the other hand, the province has maintained its traditions and customs in the daily lifestyle of the locals. The best months to visit Rayong are from November to February.

Bandar Seri Begawan 1955

This is Bandar Seri Begawan in the mid 1950s. I like looking at old photographs. It's not because I want to live in the past. But by looking at old photographs only can we see the physical development of Brunei.This 1956 photograph is interesting. This is taken out of the State of Brunei Development Report January 1956, just before Brunei first launched its 1st RKN or 1st National Development

More What Happens Next?

More photographs for you to consider what happens next to the characters in the following photographs.

What happens next?

The following photographs are nothing with Brunei. But I like them when I received them yesterday and I thought I will share them with you all. I supposed the quiz would be - what do you think will happen next - for each of the following photographs?