Muay Thai Boxing by Jamie Hanson
Muay Thai Boxing began in Thailand hundreds of years ago when there were little rules and no weight classes to distinguish the Siamese or Thai Army members from one another. There were no gloves or equipment, just two opposing men having a battle, sometimes with swords and batons - which is literally what the translation Krabi-Krabong means and what Muay Thai is descended from.
Today, Muay Thai Boxing is sweeping the States and people use boxing gloves and fight within their own weight class to make the fights fair. Muay Thai Boxing gloves such as King Professional Gloves, Raja Boxing Gloves, Windy Gloves and Twins Special Boxing Gloves, are all available online through Muay Thai Boxing specialty stores, some even located in Thailand.
In addition to the adding of boxing gloves, officials limited the time fights were run and added uniforms which are basically boxing shorts. Muay Thai shorts, like the gloves, can be found on the Internet through special Muay Thai Boxing online stores and are made by the same manufacturers such as Twins Special, King Professional, Raja Boxing and Windy.
Although boxing gloves are used, Muay Thai Boxing is a form of Martial Arts. Even though kick boxing is a dangerous sport, Muay Thai Boxing is a thai kick boxing self defense art developed in Thailand. In addition, with Muay Thai Boxing, one is allowed to use a combination of eight body parts to move on the opponent. The use of hands - with gloves, feet, shins, with shin guards and knees are used in many combinations to bring down the opponent. It may seem violent, but Muay Thai Boxing is really a great way of anger management and self control over oneself.
With proper training and regular practice, Muay Thai Boxing can increase a body's flexibility, muscle tone, blood circulation and better use of the bones. Muay Thai Boxing is good work for both the mind and body.
When one is practicing Muay Thai Boxing, a proper outfit is essential not only to look good but to feel good as well. Boxing gloves from companies such as King Professional Gloves, Raja Boxing Gloves, Windy Gloves and Twins Special Boxing Gloves are all professionally made in Thailand where Muay Thai Boxing is a national sport. Young boys grow up learning the art of Muay Thai Boxing and many young girls learn several of the moves for safety purposes. All of these Muay Thai companies, Windy, Twins Special, Raja Boxing and King Professional all make silk boxing shorts to complete the outfit of a Muay Thai Boxing champion or someone who just practices the art of Muay Thai Boxing. In addition to the gloves and silk boxing shorts, these companies also produce shin guards, ankle wraps and headgear for the ultimate protection.
Some companies allow you to design your own silk boxing shorts or come with the logo from the company or a symbol of power and fighting such as dragons, tigers and many more. The silk shorts come in many different colors and fit all sizes and shapes of fighters.
About the Author
www.muaythaichampion.com is an online shop offering the full range of Thailand's finest Muay Thai brands and specializing in Muay Thai Shorts and Muay Thai Gloves.
Thursday, November 27, 2008
Friday, November 21, 2008
Silk Ties
Silk Ties: The Perfect Executive Gift by Eric J Ken
1
It can be tough finding the perfect gift for a work colleague or friend, but there's one thing that all executives need, and also usually enjoy receiving: good quality silk ties! The beauty of buying ties as a corporate gift is that while most executive gifts tend to be quite clinical and boring, a new tie can really reflect the personality of the individual you are buying for. Unlike posh pens or executive toys, a well chosen and high quality silk tie will be uniquely original and stand out from other gifts.
Another great reason to buy ties as executive or corporate gift is their simple practicality; few corporate gifts are quite as practical as a high quality silk tie. Ties won't just get lost amongst the desk clutter like an executive toy, and it's far easier to buy ties which will actually get used than it is to find a good quality briefcase or pen.
Be sure to purchase silk ties however, as they have a higher quality and finish than ties made from cheaper materials. The higher quality will also help the ties stand out from other gimmicky executive gifts which might look expensive, but are usually quite cheap! After all, you are buying a corporate gift for long term repeated use, so high quality silk ties will make their initial expense back while other ties are falling to pieces!
There are also an almost unlimited range of designs available for ties. If you buy silk ties, these tend to feature designs by extremely creative designers, which allows them to be both exciting and vivid but also suitable as corporate gifts. Any executive gift should take into account the workplace environment of the individual that the gift is for, and while this can be a little trickier with ties than it is with more conventional executive gifts, a well chosen silk tie will be warmly received and has a clear value above other less individualised executive gifts.
About the Author
By- Eric J Ken Visit:- http://www.oharadesigns.com.au/ for Silk Ties, Mens Ties, corporate gifts, Executive Gift etc
1
It can be tough finding the perfect gift for a work colleague or friend, but there's one thing that all executives need, and also usually enjoy receiving: good quality silk ties! The beauty of buying ties as a corporate gift is that while most executive gifts tend to be quite clinical and boring, a new tie can really reflect the personality of the individual you are buying for. Unlike posh pens or executive toys, a well chosen and high quality silk tie will be uniquely original and stand out from other gifts.
Another great reason to buy ties as executive or corporate gift is their simple practicality; few corporate gifts are quite as practical as a high quality silk tie. Ties won't just get lost amongst the desk clutter like an executive toy, and it's far easier to buy ties which will actually get used than it is to find a good quality briefcase or pen.
Be sure to purchase silk ties however, as they have a higher quality and finish than ties made from cheaper materials. The higher quality will also help the ties stand out from other gimmicky executive gifts which might look expensive, but are usually quite cheap! After all, you are buying a corporate gift for long term repeated use, so high quality silk ties will make their initial expense back while other ties are falling to pieces!
There are also an almost unlimited range of designs available for ties. If you buy silk ties, these tend to feature designs by extremely creative designers, which allows them to be both exciting and vivid but also suitable as corporate gifts. Any executive gift should take into account the workplace environment of the individual that the gift is for, and while this can be a little trickier with ties than it is with more conventional executive gifts, a well chosen silk tie will be warmly received and has a clear value above other less individualised executive gifts.
About the Author
By- Eric J Ken Visit:- http://www.oharadesigns.com.au/ for Silk Ties, Mens Ties, corporate gifts, Executive Gift etc
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Traditional Thai art - preserving a cultural heritage
Traditional Thai art - preserving a cultural heritage by Eric Lim
Traditional Thai art and handicraft skills have been passed from generation to generation within communities, some of which are centuries old. Some of these centers of Thai art have survived; others are in danger of going extinct owing to the pressures of modern development.
What are the forms of Thai art still left and what are in danger of going extinct? What measures are being taken to preserve this cultural heritage?
The Abhisek Dusit Throne Hall in Dusit Garden has a comprehensive collection of traditional Thai art and handicraft. The items displayed represent the various traditional skills in the various regions and provinces in Thailand.
Besides the different Thai silk designs from the different regions of Thailand, other works include silverware, finely engraved neilloware, pottery and lacquerware. These are products of the royally sponsored SUPPORT Foundation for traditional Thai art and handicraft.
The SUPPORT Foundation was initiated by HM Queen Sirikit to help the rural population augment their meager incomes and to preserve the skills in traditional Thai art. A center was established within the grounds of Chitralada Palace where teachers pass these skills to students from the rural areas all at royal expense.
On graduation, these students return to their native provinces to start cottage art industries. During royal tours of the rural areas, villagers present their products to the royal staff who assess the value and pay the villagers for their work. Sometimes this can be equivalent to a year's work on the farm.
The traditional Thai art products are then sold at Chitralada outlets in Bangkok and other major cities. Proceeds are channeled to maintain the foundation. Displays of Thai art can also be viewed at the Queen's Gallery in Ratchadamnoen Klang opposite Fort Mahakarn.
In this way, the rural artisan is relieved of the burdens of retailing of his products. He merely concentrates on his craft, confident that he'll get a fair price.
There's wide array of traditional Thai art for sale in Narayana Phand, a joint venture between the Thai government and private enterprise. This outlet is located opposite the Central World Plaza in Ratchadamri Road.
Other traditional Thai art centers are started by private efforts; individuals or communities keen on preserving the arts. A prominent example would be Thai silk and Jim Thompson comes to mind. Please see Jim Thompson outlets in Bangkok.
The traditional Thai art center Ban Chang Thai or the House of Thai Artisans, preserves the art of puppet making, painting and miniature Khon masks. The center is also renowned for Muay Thai, popularly known as Thai boxing.
Another form of traditional Thai art is the colorful Khon masks and headgear worn by the various characters in the masked Khon Dance. The artisans in Ban Silpa Thai (House of Thai Art) Thonburi who make these Khon masks have achieved national acclaim for their craftsmanship.
However, the Khon mask makers in the Saphan Mai community weren't so lucky. This community of artisans has almost disappeared, save for one man, to make way for a condominium development.
One place to view the complete range of Khon masks and headgear is the private collection in the Home of MR Kukrit Pramoj.
The Ban Laos community of bamboo flute makers a 200 year old community from Laos, has preserved their traditional skills in making woodwind instruments to this day.
Thai bronzeware is made by a two century old community of artisans in Ban Bu. The community suffered a severe setback in early 2006 when the retail outlet and several other homes were burnt to the ground. Luckily the factory was undamaged and in March 2007, I learnt that they have reopened for business.
Carving and sculpturing of wood, sandstone, stone and various other material are fascinating aspects of traditional Thai art; none more so than the art of carving beautiful floral designs out of soap!
A practical form of woodcraft is carpentry for home décor products like engraved doors, sculptured door knobs, panels and cornices. The carpenters in Soi Pracha Rat 24 have crafted home décor to a fine art.
Benjarong ceramics got its name from the five (benja) colors black, white, red, green and yellow in the floral designs. Initially produced in China based on Thai designs, Benjarong was the tableware of royalty. By the early 20th century, production was completely done in Thailand.
The art gallery in the Siam Heritage Hotel displays the works of budding Thai artists. These works, which include paintings, pottery, wood and sandstone sculptures, are also for sale.
This list of traditional Thai art is by no means comprehensive. As we come across more of these centers, we'll add on them to this list. There's a wealth of undiscovered talent and artistic treasures out there, just waiting to be found.
Traditional Thai art and handicraft is the life and soul of Thai cultural heritage. Preserving this heritage in our rapidly changing world will be society's biggest challenge!
About the Author
Traditional Thai art Traditional Thai art is one of the treasures you'll encounter in Tour Bangkok Legacies a historical travel site on people, places and events that shaped the landscape of Bangkok. The author Eric Lim lives in Bangkok, Thailand.
Traditional Thai art and handicraft skills have been passed from generation to generation within communities, some of which are centuries old. Some of these centers of Thai art have survived; others are in danger of going extinct owing to the pressures of modern development.
What are the forms of Thai art still left and what are in danger of going extinct? What measures are being taken to preserve this cultural heritage?
The Abhisek Dusit Throne Hall in Dusit Garden has a comprehensive collection of traditional Thai art and handicraft. The items displayed represent the various traditional skills in the various regions and provinces in Thailand.
Besides the different Thai silk designs from the different regions of Thailand, other works include silverware, finely engraved neilloware, pottery and lacquerware. These are products of the royally sponsored SUPPORT Foundation for traditional Thai art and handicraft.
The SUPPORT Foundation was initiated by HM Queen Sirikit to help the rural population augment their meager incomes and to preserve the skills in traditional Thai art. A center was established within the grounds of Chitralada Palace where teachers pass these skills to students from the rural areas all at royal expense.
On graduation, these students return to their native provinces to start cottage art industries. During royal tours of the rural areas, villagers present their products to the royal staff who assess the value and pay the villagers for their work. Sometimes this can be equivalent to a year's work on the farm.
The traditional Thai art products are then sold at Chitralada outlets in Bangkok and other major cities. Proceeds are channeled to maintain the foundation. Displays of Thai art can also be viewed at the Queen's Gallery in Ratchadamnoen Klang opposite Fort Mahakarn.
In this way, the rural artisan is relieved of the burdens of retailing of his products. He merely concentrates on his craft, confident that he'll get a fair price.
There's wide array of traditional Thai art for sale in Narayana Phand, a joint venture between the Thai government and private enterprise. This outlet is located opposite the Central World Plaza in Ratchadamri Road.
Other traditional Thai art centers are started by private efforts; individuals or communities keen on preserving the arts. A prominent example would be Thai silk and Jim Thompson comes to mind. Please see Jim Thompson outlets in Bangkok.
The traditional Thai art center Ban Chang Thai or the House of Thai Artisans, preserves the art of puppet making, painting and miniature Khon masks. The center is also renowned for Muay Thai, popularly known as Thai boxing.
Another form of traditional Thai art is the colorful Khon masks and headgear worn by the various characters in the masked Khon Dance. The artisans in Ban Silpa Thai (House of Thai Art) Thonburi who make these Khon masks have achieved national acclaim for their craftsmanship.
However, the Khon mask makers in the Saphan Mai community weren't so lucky. This community of artisans has almost disappeared, save for one man, to make way for a condominium development.
One place to view the complete range of Khon masks and headgear is the private collection in the Home of MR Kukrit Pramoj.
The Ban Laos community of bamboo flute makers a 200 year old community from Laos, has preserved their traditional skills in making woodwind instruments to this day.
Thai bronzeware is made by a two century old community of artisans in Ban Bu. The community suffered a severe setback in early 2006 when the retail outlet and several other homes were burnt to the ground. Luckily the factory was undamaged and in March 2007, I learnt that they have reopened for business.
Carving and sculpturing of wood, sandstone, stone and various other material are fascinating aspects of traditional Thai art; none more so than the art of carving beautiful floral designs out of soap!
A practical form of woodcraft is carpentry for home décor products like engraved doors, sculptured door knobs, panels and cornices. The carpenters in Soi Pracha Rat 24 have crafted home décor to a fine art.
Benjarong ceramics got its name from the five (benja) colors black, white, red, green and yellow in the floral designs. Initially produced in China based on Thai designs, Benjarong was the tableware of royalty. By the early 20th century, production was completely done in Thailand.
The art gallery in the Siam Heritage Hotel displays the works of budding Thai artists. These works, which include paintings, pottery, wood and sandstone sculptures, are also for sale.
This list of traditional Thai art is by no means comprehensive. As we come across more of these centers, we'll add on them to this list. There's a wealth of undiscovered talent and artistic treasures out there, just waiting to be found.
Traditional Thai art and handicraft is the life and soul of Thai cultural heritage. Preserving this heritage in our rapidly changing world will be society's biggest challenge!
About the Author
Traditional Thai art Traditional Thai art is one of the treasures you'll encounter in Tour Bangkok Legacies a historical travel site on people, places and events that shaped the landscape of Bangkok. The author Eric Lim lives in Bangkok, Thailand.
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Bangkok Attractions
Bangkok Attractions by Jack Vallieres
With so much to choose from, any relatively brief selection of Bangkok attractions must inevitably be personal. The following includes some of the most celebrated sights in or near the city, as well as a few that might get overlooked in the course of a short visit:
The Grand Palace Enclosure
No group of buildings in all the country better illustrates the splendour of Thailand's cultural heritage than this mile-square com¬pound containing the Grand Palace and its adjacent Temple of the Emerald Buddha. The earliest structures, in classic Thai style, date from the reign of King Rama I; extensive changes were made by later rulers of the dynasty, particularly King Chulalongkorn (Rama V), who added a number of impres¬sive Western-style buildings to the collec¬tion. Of special interest are the Dusit Maha Prasat, an audience hall with traditional multi¬tiered roofs and an elegant, gilded spire; the Amarin Vinitchai Throne Hall, which served a the residence of the first three Chakri kings; and the Chakri Maha Prasat, contain¬ing the present throne hall, a basically Euro¬pean edifice crowned by three Thai spires.
The temple, known as Wat Phra Keo, houses the famous Emerald Buddha, a small, much-venerated image of northern Thai ori¬gin whose jewelled robes are changed three times a year by His Majesty the King at the beginning of each season. The main chapel, as well as the numerous buildings and monu¬ments surrounding it, are dazzlingly adorned by a profusion of stucco, gilded carvings, mother-of-pearl inlay, glass mosaics, statu¬ary, and other classic Thai arts. (The Grand Palace is open daily, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.)
WatArun
Popularly called Temple of Dawn, this dramatic complex overlooking the Chao Phraya River on the West bank dates from the Ayutthaya period and, during the Thonburi reign of King Taksin, was briefly the home of the Emerald Buddha. In those days its central, Khmer-style tower was only 15 metres tall, however; the present 104-metre creation was started by King Rama II of Bangkok and completed in the following reign. Known as a prang, the tower represents the sacred Mount Meru, a heavenly realm consisting of 33 layers. Wat Arun is noted for its spectacular decoration, consisting of thou¬sands of pieces ofThai and Chinese pottery set in an intricate mosaic of delicate floral patterns covering almost the entire structure. (Wat Arun is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.)
Vimam Mek Palace
This magnificent palace, built entirely of rare golden Teak, was designed by a son of King Rama V at the turn of the century. It was originally intended as a place for the king to stay on visits to the island of Si Chang in the Gulf of Thailand but was moved while still incomplete to Bangkok. There it served for a time as the royal residence during construc¬tion of the nearby Dusit Palace. The octago¬nal building - reputedly the largest teak structure in the world - was restored by Her Majesty Queen Sirikit as part of Bangkok's Bi¬centennial Celebration in 1982 and since then has been open to the public. Vimarn Mek contains a fascinating col¬lection of Royal memorabilia, including old photographs, furniture, objets d'art, and such curiosities as a large copper bath and the first shower ever seen in Thailand. (Vimarn Mek is open Wednesday through Sundays, 9.30 a.m. to 4 p.m.)
Jim Thompson's House
This was the home ofthe famous Ameri¬can who came to Thailand as a military officer at the end of World War II and stayed on to revive the Thai silk industry as well as to form one of the finest private collections of art from Thailand and neighbouring countries.
The Thompson house, which he built in 1959, is actually composed of four complete old Thai-style teak structures and part of a fifth, artfully reassembled to form a single residence. The lofty, panelled drawing room, for example, dates from around 1800 and came from a community of silk weavers across the canal behind the house, while others were found in a village near A yutthaya. Some features, such as the enclosed stairhall and the modern bathrooms, represent departures from traditional construction, yet the essen¬tial Thai spirit has been carefully preserved.
The Weekend Market
For a comprehensive introduction to the real life of contemporary Thailand - its people, its culture, and its products both natural and man-made - few single places can equal the great public market held every Saturday and Sunday at Chatuchak Park. Here, late on Friday evening, thousands of vendors move in an amazing assortment of goods, and for two days the 31-acre area is packed with Thais of all classes in search of a bargain or just the pleasure of its colourful atmosphere.
Though mostly covered, the market can be hot for visitors and involves a good deal of walking, so wear your most comfortable clothes and shoes; plenty of open-air food stalls are scat¬tered around, however, offering a cool drink or a bowl of quick noodles for those whose energy flags. (The Weekend Market is open Saturday and Sunday, from dawn until nightfall.)
The Rose Garden
Located some 32 kilometres west of Bang¬kok on the bank of a picturesque river, this beau¬tifully landscaped park has a golf course, a modem hotel, and Thai-style bungalows for rent. Most people, however, go there for a day trip - often in conjunction with a visit to the nearby Floating Market at Damnern Saduak, -- and enjoy a few hours of strolling around the extensive gardens, eating in one of several restaurants, and seeing a cultural show performed every afternoon at 3 o'clock. Traditional village culture is the theme of the show, which includes folk dances, trained elephants, Thai boxing and sword fighting. (The Rose Garden is open daily from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.).
About the Author
Jack Vallieres is the professional freelance writer. He's also the webmaster of Hundredtrip.com
With so much to choose from, any relatively brief selection of Bangkok attractions must inevitably be personal. The following includes some of the most celebrated sights in or near the city, as well as a few that might get overlooked in the course of a short visit:
The Grand Palace Enclosure
No group of buildings in all the country better illustrates the splendour of Thailand's cultural heritage than this mile-square com¬pound containing the Grand Palace and its adjacent Temple of the Emerald Buddha. The earliest structures, in classic Thai style, date from the reign of King Rama I; extensive changes were made by later rulers of the dynasty, particularly King Chulalongkorn (Rama V), who added a number of impres¬sive Western-style buildings to the collec¬tion. Of special interest are the Dusit Maha Prasat, an audience hall with traditional multi¬tiered roofs and an elegant, gilded spire; the Amarin Vinitchai Throne Hall, which served a the residence of the first three Chakri kings; and the Chakri Maha Prasat, contain¬ing the present throne hall, a basically Euro¬pean edifice crowned by three Thai spires.
The temple, known as Wat Phra Keo, houses the famous Emerald Buddha, a small, much-venerated image of northern Thai ori¬gin whose jewelled robes are changed three times a year by His Majesty the King at the beginning of each season. The main chapel, as well as the numerous buildings and monu¬ments surrounding it, are dazzlingly adorned by a profusion of stucco, gilded carvings, mother-of-pearl inlay, glass mosaics, statu¬ary, and other classic Thai arts. (The Grand Palace is open daily, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.)
WatArun
Popularly called Temple of Dawn, this dramatic complex overlooking the Chao Phraya River on the West bank dates from the Ayutthaya period and, during the Thonburi reign of King Taksin, was briefly the home of the Emerald Buddha. In those days its central, Khmer-style tower was only 15 metres tall, however; the present 104-metre creation was started by King Rama II of Bangkok and completed in the following reign. Known as a prang, the tower represents the sacred Mount Meru, a heavenly realm consisting of 33 layers. Wat Arun is noted for its spectacular decoration, consisting of thou¬sands of pieces ofThai and Chinese pottery set in an intricate mosaic of delicate floral patterns covering almost the entire structure. (Wat Arun is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.)
Vimam Mek Palace
This magnificent palace, built entirely of rare golden Teak, was designed by a son of King Rama V at the turn of the century. It was originally intended as a place for the king to stay on visits to the island of Si Chang in the Gulf of Thailand but was moved while still incomplete to Bangkok. There it served for a time as the royal residence during construc¬tion of the nearby Dusit Palace. The octago¬nal building - reputedly the largest teak structure in the world - was restored by Her Majesty Queen Sirikit as part of Bangkok's Bi¬centennial Celebration in 1982 and since then has been open to the public. Vimarn Mek contains a fascinating col¬lection of Royal memorabilia, including old photographs, furniture, objets d'art, and such curiosities as a large copper bath and the first shower ever seen in Thailand. (Vimarn Mek is open Wednesday through Sundays, 9.30 a.m. to 4 p.m.)
Jim Thompson's House
This was the home ofthe famous Ameri¬can who came to Thailand as a military officer at the end of World War II and stayed on to revive the Thai silk industry as well as to form one of the finest private collections of art from Thailand and neighbouring countries.
The Thompson house, which he built in 1959, is actually composed of four complete old Thai-style teak structures and part of a fifth, artfully reassembled to form a single residence. The lofty, panelled drawing room, for example, dates from around 1800 and came from a community of silk weavers across the canal behind the house, while others were found in a village near A yutthaya. Some features, such as the enclosed stairhall and the modern bathrooms, represent departures from traditional construction, yet the essen¬tial Thai spirit has been carefully preserved.
The Weekend Market
For a comprehensive introduction to the real life of contemporary Thailand - its people, its culture, and its products both natural and man-made - few single places can equal the great public market held every Saturday and Sunday at Chatuchak Park. Here, late on Friday evening, thousands of vendors move in an amazing assortment of goods, and for two days the 31-acre area is packed with Thais of all classes in search of a bargain or just the pleasure of its colourful atmosphere.
Though mostly covered, the market can be hot for visitors and involves a good deal of walking, so wear your most comfortable clothes and shoes; plenty of open-air food stalls are scat¬tered around, however, offering a cool drink or a bowl of quick noodles for those whose energy flags. (The Weekend Market is open Saturday and Sunday, from dawn until nightfall.)
The Rose Garden
Located some 32 kilometres west of Bang¬kok on the bank of a picturesque river, this beau¬tifully landscaped park has a golf course, a modem hotel, and Thai-style bungalows for rent. Most people, however, go there for a day trip - often in conjunction with a visit to the nearby Floating Market at Damnern Saduak, -- and enjoy a few hours of strolling around the extensive gardens, eating in one of several restaurants, and seeing a cultural show performed every afternoon at 3 o'clock. Traditional village culture is the theme of the show, which includes folk dances, trained elephants, Thai boxing and sword fighting. (The Rose Garden is open daily from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.).
About the Author
Jack Vallieres is the professional freelance writer. He's also the webmaster of Hundredtrip.com
Modern Thai Silk
Modern Thai Silk by www.chivalrysilk.com
Modern Thai Silk
Silk : Thailand's Glamorous Export
The history of the export of Thai silk during the twentieth century has been one of great ups and downs, and is often clouded by inaccurate of nonexistent data. For instance, export figures for finished silk do no exist untill the post-war years, but earlier data concerning export of raw silk will suffice to illustrate the industry's plunges. While in 1990, raw silk worth 141,468 baht was exported, in the 1930's this figure fell to less than 500 baht. Similarly, the export of Thai silk has undergone similar fluctuations since it began to figure prominently around 1950, when half a million baht was earned in foreign export.
During the 1950's, Thai silk followed a rather steady upswing and then leapt in the early 1960's into the 20 to 30 million baht per year rang. This can be attributed to promotion of the fabric by Her Majesty the Queen, who included dresses fashioned of Thai silk in her world tour wardrobe in 1961. By the following year, 1962, export of Thai silk was earning 26.6 million baht per year. This figure further increased in 1963 to 34 million baht, a gigantic leap from the figures of the 50's - - all considerably below ten million baht.
Apart from earning much-needed foreign exchange for the country and aiding in decreasing Thailand's overall trade deficit, the export of Thai silk figures prominently in other areas. It is, for instance, instrumental in the development of the underdeveloged and underemployed Northern region, where very limited sericultural techniques and little marketing knowledge are gradually being eradicated by technical programs and instructional aid. The growing demand for Thai silk throughout the world can not help but improve the methods and lives of the individual growers and weavers throughout Thailand.
Undoubtedly one of the most stunning and unique textile products available in the world, it has been said the Thai silk is one of Thailand's most effective ambassadors of goodwill abroad. Carried by most of the leading department stores in America and Europe, and gaining acceptance in other areas of the world, Thai silk implants the name Thailand in the minds of those who choose to wear it and women in over 50 countries of the world corrently do. It also introduces the country itself in the great fashion centers of the world, since leading designers -- including Pierre Balmain and Elizabeth Arden-- feature it in their collections.
With the efforts of the Government, including the Silk Promotion Committee, and the great strides being made at sericultural research centers such as the one at Korat, improved worm strains and eradication of disease do indeed point to a bright future for the export of Thai silk. As tourism is now the number two industry in Thailand, the "invisible export" of the approximately 180 million baht worth of Thai silk bought annually by tourists must not be neglected either. All these factors combined indicate a sound future for the industry, increased earnings for the nation, the enhancement of the Thai reputation world-wide, -- and perhaps most important of all -- the economic development of the underprivileged Northern and improved standard of living for the tens of thousands involved in sericulture throughout the region.
Use of silk
Silk's durability, elasticity and versatility have inspired myriad uses that stretch fat beyond clothing.Since it resists rot, both the Chinese and Egyptians used it in ancient times for wrapping bodies in preparation for burial. The same attribute renders it practical for use in closing sutures in surgery and even for realigning teeth. Being both strong and light, silk is an ideal fabric for making parachutes, as it folds up compactly. Following the Second World War when materials were scarce, enterprising Europeans turned silk parachutes into underwear and other clothing items. When used as powder bag for a high-calibre gun, silk burns completely leaving no residue.
Silk is a protein and does not conduct heat. Thai makes it an extremly effective insulator, and it is used for insulating elecrtic wires. As a quilting liver in ski suits, silk is warm to wear because it prevents body heat from dissipating. When used for light-weight clothing such as stockings of lingerie, the fine yarn permits air to pass through the material. Silk's elasticity makes it a perfect material for racing bicycly tyres; it cretes smooth traction and endures well. Silk is also used un the production of carpets, astronaut's clothing, sewing thread, fishing lines and typewriter ribbons. Nail wraps, which preserve the condition of varnished finger-nails, are often made from silk. Macerated silk used in face powder to enhance smoothness, and pupa oil from silk moth is added to face creams and anti-ageing lotions. In ancient China, silk was used for paper-making.
Silk is also wonderful medium for the visual arts. Paining on silk is an art that has been practised for tens of centuries. Its power of absorbency provides the artist with better control of the colours. This art inevitably led to the modern-day craft of silk screen printing, which was developed in the early 1900s.
Silk by-products
In Thailand, waste by-products from sericulture can be of considerable value to villagers. A good source of protein, silkworms may be cooked and eaten by humans or used as animal feed. Timber from the mulberry tree is ideal for furniture-making. Dead pupae are used in manufacturing soap and cosmetics, and emply cocoons are decorated and sold as handicraft items.
Chivalrysilk is a Thailand silk manufacture and silk exporter of thai silk, beautiful silk fabrics, silk dress, silk scarves, silk cocoon and raw silks. If you looking for the original fabrics silk with high quality for clothes, home decor and for collecting precious art of silk fabrics. Chivalry silk has the most unique selection of very fine decorator silk fabrics are on sale. Serving World wide. We weave by hands with heart , Visit http://www.chivalrysilk.com
About the Author
Submit by : Trophy C Rittra seo services, internet marketing and web marketing
Modern Thai Silk
Silk : Thailand's Glamorous Export
The history of the export of Thai silk during the twentieth century has been one of great ups and downs, and is often clouded by inaccurate of nonexistent data. For instance, export figures for finished silk do no exist untill the post-war years, but earlier data concerning export of raw silk will suffice to illustrate the industry's plunges. While in 1990, raw silk worth 141,468 baht was exported, in the 1930's this figure fell to less than 500 baht. Similarly, the export of Thai silk has undergone similar fluctuations since it began to figure prominently around 1950, when half a million baht was earned in foreign export.
During the 1950's, Thai silk followed a rather steady upswing and then leapt in the early 1960's into the 20 to 30 million baht per year rang. This can be attributed to promotion of the fabric by Her Majesty the Queen, who included dresses fashioned of Thai silk in her world tour wardrobe in 1961. By the following year, 1962, export of Thai silk was earning 26.6 million baht per year. This figure further increased in 1963 to 34 million baht, a gigantic leap from the figures of the 50's - - all considerably below ten million baht.
Apart from earning much-needed foreign exchange for the country and aiding in decreasing Thailand's overall trade deficit, the export of Thai silk figures prominently in other areas. It is, for instance, instrumental in the development of the underdeveloged and underemployed Northern region, where very limited sericultural techniques and little marketing knowledge are gradually being eradicated by technical programs and instructional aid. The growing demand for Thai silk throughout the world can not help but improve the methods and lives of the individual growers and weavers throughout Thailand.
Undoubtedly one of the most stunning and unique textile products available in the world, it has been said the Thai silk is one of Thailand's most effective ambassadors of goodwill abroad. Carried by most of the leading department stores in America and Europe, and gaining acceptance in other areas of the world, Thai silk implants the name Thailand in the minds of those who choose to wear it and women in over 50 countries of the world corrently do. It also introduces the country itself in the great fashion centers of the world, since leading designers -- including Pierre Balmain and Elizabeth Arden-- feature it in their collections.
With the efforts of the Government, including the Silk Promotion Committee, and the great strides being made at sericultural research centers such as the one at Korat, improved worm strains and eradication of disease do indeed point to a bright future for the export of Thai silk. As tourism is now the number two industry in Thailand, the "invisible export" of the approximately 180 million baht worth of Thai silk bought annually by tourists must not be neglected either. All these factors combined indicate a sound future for the industry, increased earnings for the nation, the enhancement of the Thai reputation world-wide, -- and perhaps most important of all -- the economic development of the underprivileged Northern and improved standard of living for the tens of thousands involved in sericulture throughout the region.
Use of silk
Silk's durability, elasticity and versatility have inspired myriad uses that stretch fat beyond clothing.Since it resists rot, both the Chinese and Egyptians used it in ancient times for wrapping bodies in preparation for burial. The same attribute renders it practical for use in closing sutures in surgery and even for realigning teeth. Being both strong and light, silk is an ideal fabric for making parachutes, as it folds up compactly. Following the Second World War when materials were scarce, enterprising Europeans turned silk parachutes into underwear and other clothing items. When used as powder bag for a high-calibre gun, silk burns completely leaving no residue.
Silk is a protein and does not conduct heat. Thai makes it an extremly effective insulator, and it is used for insulating elecrtic wires. As a quilting liver in ski suits, silk is warm to wear because it prevents body heat from dissipating. When used for light-weight clothing such as stockings of lingerie, the fine yarn permits air to pass through the material. Silk's elasticity makes it a perfect material for racing bicycly tyres; it cretes smooth traction and endures well. Silk is also used un the production of carpets, astronaut's clothing, sewing thread, fishing lines and typewriter ribbons. Nail wraps, which preserve the condition of varnished finger-nails, are often made from silk. Macerated silk used in face powder to enhance smoothness, and pupa oil from silk moth is added to face creams and anti-ageing lotions. In ancient China, silk was used for paper-making.
Silk is also wonderful medium for the visual arts. Paining on silk is an art that has been practised for tens of centuries. Its power of absorbency provides the artist with better control of the colours. This art inevitably led to the modern-day craft of silk screen printing, which was developed in the early 1900s.
Silk by-products
In Thailand, waste by-products from sericulture can be of considerable value to villagers. A good source of protein, silkworms may be cooked and eaten by humans or used as animal feed. Timber from the mulberry tree is ideal for furniture-making. Dead pupae are used in manufacturing soap and cosmetics, and emply cocoons are decorated and sold as handicraft items.
Chivalrysilk is a Thailand silk manufacture and silk exporter of thai silk, beautiful silk fabrics, silk dress, silk scarves, silk cocoon and raw silks. If you looking for the original fabrics silk with high quality for clothes, home decor and for collecting precious art of silk fabrics. Chivalry silk has the most unique selection of very fine decorator silk fabrics are on sale. Serving World wide. We weave by hands with heart , Visit http://www.chivalrysilk.com
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Khon Kaen �" Centre of Northeastern Silk
Khon Kaen �" Centre of Northeastern Silk by Alex Albert
Khon Kaen is an amazing tourist destination of Thailand and is mainly famous for producing silk. It is a core of various museums, monuments, archaeological sites, and national parks. At the same time, its Cobra and Turtle Villages are extremely famous among tourists. To make your journey an unforgettable experience forever, Khon Kaen Hotels offer comfortable accommodation facilities. Various types of hotel are available to befit the budget and requirements of all the visitors.
Khon Kaen is one of the major cities counted under the National Economic and Social Plan of Thailand. It is located in the heart of country's Northeastern zone. Lying 445 km from the capital Bangkok, Khon Kaen covers an area of about 10,886 sq km. With pleasant weather throughout the year, it is an ideal destination to be visited during vacations. It encompasses a huge variety of natural spots and is also rich in flora and fauna. It overall atmosphere is clam and composed which is ideal to spend relaxed moments away from a feverish world. Meanwhile, Khon Kaen Hotels are set at suitable locations which is good for the comfortableness of tourists.
Some of the famous hotels in Khon Kaen include Sofitel Raja Orchid Hotel, Charoen Thani Princess, and Pullman Khon Kaen Raja Orchid. All categories of hotel are available there which is quite apt for all kinds of visitor. They can choose any of the hotels in Khon Kaen according to their budget and requirements. Keeping in mind their coziness, these hotels offer decent accommodations and all the essential services. Right from dining to leisure, a complete package of amenities is offered. At the same time, some of the hotels also cater to business travelers. They encompass latest meeting, seminar, and conferencing facilities.
The splendour of Khon Kaen is highlighted by its numerous fascinating spots including Chonnabot Mat Mi Silk, Non Muang Archaeological Site, Tham Pha Phuang Forest Park, Tao Village, Khon Kaen National Museum, Phra That Kham Kaen, Nam Phong National Park, and Wat Neua. Khon Kaen is also a home to extraordinary animals and visitors are highly becharmed by its Cobra and Turtle Villages. Furthermore, the speciality of this glorious destination is silk. It is the centre of the Northeastern silk industry where different villages prepare their own mudmee designs. A Silk Fair is organized by the city every year when all the best produced items are exhibited for sale.
At last, its time to enjoy a bustling nightlife at restaurants, bars, clubs, and bistros of Khon Kaen. You can find a variety of dining spots where tempting concoctions related to traditional Thai and International delicacies are served. Meanwhile, alluring cocktails and refreshing drinks add more delight to your feast. Then, you can get ready to witness the beauty of Khon Kaen at night. All the centres are lit which spread a glowing ambience all around.
About the Author
Are you planning a visit to Khon Kaen? If yes, just click at www.asiarooms.com/thailand/khon_kaen.html and book any of the Khon Kaen hotels available at fair price deals.
Khon Kaen is an amazing tourist destination of Thailand and is mainly famous for producing silk. It is a core of various museums, monuments, archaeological sites, and national parks. At the same time, its Cobra and Turtle Villages are extremely famous among tourists. To make your journey an unforgettable experience forever, Khon Kaen Hotels offer comfortable accommodation facilities. Various types of hotel are available to befit the budget and requirements of all the visitors.
Khon Kaen is one of the major cities counted under the National Economic and Social Plan of Thailand. It is located in the heart of country's Northeastern zone. Lying 445 km from the capital Bangkok, Khon Kaen covers an area of about 10,886 sq km. With pleasant weather throughout the year, it is an ideal destination to be visited during vacations. It encompasses a huge variety of natural spots and is also rich in flora and fauna. It overall atmosphere is clam and composed which is ideal to spend relaxed moments away from a feverish world. Meanwhile, Khon Kaen Hotels are set at suitable locations which is good for the comfortableness of tourists.
Some of the famous hotels in Khon Kaen include Sofitel Raja Orchid Hotel, Charoen Thani Princess, and Pullman Khon Kaen Raja Orchid. All categories of hotel are available there which is quite apt for all kinds of visitor. They can choose any of the hotels in Khon Kaen according to their budget and requirements. Keeping in mind their coziness, these hotels offer decent accommodations and all the essential services. Right from dining to leisure, a complete package of amenities is offered. At the same time, some of the hotels also cater to business travelers. They encompass latest meeting, seminar, and conferencing facilities.
The splendour of Khon Kaen is highlighted by its numerous fascinating spots including Chonnabot Mat Mi Silk, Non Muang Archaeological Site, Tham Pha Phuang Forest Park, Tao Village, Khon Kaen National Museum, Phra That Kham Kaen, Nam Phong National Park, and Wat Neua. Khon Kaen is also a home to extraordinary animals and visitors are highly becharmed by its Cobra and Turtle Villages. Furthermore, the speciality of this glorious destination is silk. It is the centre of the Northeastern silk industry where different villages prepare their own mudmee designs. A Silk Fair is organized by the city every year when all the best produced items are exhibited for sale.
At last, its time to enjoy a bustling nightlife at restaurants, bars, clubs, and bistros of Khon Kaen. You can find a variety of dining spots where tempting concoctions related to traditional Thai and International delicacies are served. Meanwhile, alluring cocktails and refreshing drinks add more delight to your feast. Then, you can get ready to witness the beauty of Khon Kaen at night. All the centres are lit which spread a glowing ambience all around.
About the Author
Are you planning a visit to Khon Kaen? If yes, just click at www.asiarooms.com/thailand/khon_kaen.html and book any of the Khon Kaen hotels available at fair price deals.
Krabi - Perfect destination for holidayers
Krabi - Perfect destination for holidayers by Alex Albert
Krabi is a hub of white sandy beaches, coral reefs, mesmerizing Islands, and forests with caves and waterfalls. These astonishing attractions make you witness a different world which exists far away from a feverish atmosphere.Water sports like snorkeling and scuba diving can be enjoyed at its beaches. During night, the whole ambience changes and takes a glaring appearance. Furthermore, your stay is beautified by Krabi Hotels which offer elegant accommodations and modern services. Not only this, there style of hospitality also enamors the travelers.
Located on the west coast of Southern Thailand, Krabi is considered as one of the most favourable tourist destinations of the world. Krabi covers a 4708 sq km area and is blessed with the natural glory of white sandy beaches, coral reefs, mesmerizing Islands, and forests with caves and waterfalls. It makes you enter an exotic world which exists away from a noisy and hectic atmosphere. Taking out time from a busy schedule and spending precious moments with family at this amazing spot is definitely a great pleasure. Furthermore, your enjoyment is enhanced by Krabi Hotels which offer modern accommodations.
Amari Vogue Resort, Golden Beach Resort, Buri Tara Resort, Rawi Warin Resort Spa, and Sofitel Phokeethra are some of the leading hotels in Krabi. Budget travelers as well as visitors with great requirements can easily find an apposite hotel. Most of the hotels in Krabi are nested at beachfront locations. Also, they make available an entire set of amenities including restaurant, swimming pool, and Spa. Not only this, guests can also fully avail the services like laundry, parking, travel information, shuttle service, front desk, and many more.
Krabi offers various sightseeing places like Wat Tham Suea, Wat Sai Thai, Krabi Horticultural Centre, Hin Daeng, Tham Lot, Wat Khlong Thom Museum, Tham Chao Le, Tham Sadet, Koh Talu, Railay beach, Ao Nang beach, Koh Lanta Marine National Park, Fossil Shell beach, Koh Phi Phi Natural Park, Than Bokkharani National Park, Nopharat Thara Beach, and Shell Cemetery. These attractions portray the ongoing world of enchantment that never comes to a stand still.
Apart from this, Krabi beaches are very popular among adventurers for offering exciting activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, and many more. Not only this, trekking and hiking are also available there. For leisure, you can just relax in the stilling zone at beach while feeling the warmth of sun. Meanwhile, gladsome moments can be cherished with friends or family. Around the beaches, Spa facilities are also available where you can take cool Thai massage treatments.
Well, dining and shopping have their own fun at the beaches. Various stores selling antiques, gems, clothings, furniture, neilloware, Orchids, pewter ware, and silk items, are set there. While, restaurants, bars, cafes, and bistros are lit during dusk which makes the whole atmosphere dazzling. Sala Thai, Ko Tung, Last Fisherman Bar, Seafood street, Lo Spuntino, The Irish Rover Pub, Night Market, Gecko House, and Crazy Pub are some of the spots where a vibrant nightlife can be enjoyed.
About the Author
Make a suitable hotel choice through AsiaRooms offering reservation of various Krabi Hotels at best prices.
Krabi is a hub of white sandy beaches, coral reefs, mesmerizing Islands, and forests with caves and waterfalls. These astonishing attractions make you witness a different world which exists far away from a feverish atmosphere.Water sports like snorkeling and scuba diving can be enjoyed at its beaches. During night, the whole ambience changes and takes a glaring appearance. Furthermore, your stay is beautified by Krabi Hotels which offer elegant accommodations and modern services. Not only this, there style of hospitality also enamors the travelers.
Located on the west coast of Southern Thailand, Krabi is considered as one of the most favourable tourist destinations of the world. Krabi covers a 4708 sq km area and is blessed with the natural glory of white sandy beaches, coral reefs, mesmerizing Islands, and forests with caves and waterfalls. It makes you enter an exotic world which exists away from a noisy and hectic atmosphere. Taking out time from a busy schedule and spending precious moments with family at this amazing spot is definitely a great pleasure. Furthermore, your enjoyment is enhanced by Krabi Hotels which offer modern accommodations.
Amari Vogue Resort, Golden Beach Resort, Buri Tara Resort, Rawi Warin Resort Spa, and Sofitel Phokeethra are some of the leading hotels in Krabi. Budget travelers as well as visitors with great requirements can easily find an apposite hotel. Most of the hotels in Krabi are nested at beachfront locations. Also, they make available an entire set of amenities including restaurant, swimming pool, and Spa. Not only this, guests can also fully avail the services like laundry, parking, travel information, shuttle service, front desk, and many more.
Krabi offers various sightseeing places like Wat Tham Suea, Wat Sai Thai, Krabi Horticultural Centre, Hin Daeng, Tham Lot, Wat Khlong Thom Museum, Tham Chao Le, Tham Sadet, Koh Talu, Railay beach, Ao Nang beach, Koh Lanta Marine National Park, Fossil Shell beach, Koh Phi Phi Natural Park, Than Bokkharani National Park, Nopharat Thara Beach, and Shell Cemetery. These attractions portray the ongoing world of enchantment that never comes to a stand still.
Apart from this, Krabi beaches are very popular among adventurers for offering exciting activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, and many more. Not only this, trekking and hiking are also available there. For leisure, you can just relax in the stilling zone at beach while feeling the warmth of sun. Meanwhile, gladsome moments can be cherished with friends or family. Around the beaches, Spa facilities are also available where you can take cool Thai massage treatments.
Well, dining and shopping have their own fun at the beaches. Various stores selling antiques, gems, clothings, furniture, neilloware, Orchids, pewter ware, and silk items, are set there. While, restaurants, bars, cafes, and bistros are lit during dusk which makes the whole atmosphere dazzling. Sala Thai, Ko Tung, Last Fisherman Bar, Seafood street, Lo Spuntino, The Irish Rover Pub, Night Market, Gecko House, and Crazy Pub are some of the spots where a vibrant nightlife can be enjoyed.
About the Author
Make a suitable hotel choice through AsiaRooms offering reservation of various Krabi Hotels at best prices.
Thai Classics At Jim Thompson House and Vimanmek Palace
Thai Classics At Jim Thompson House and Vimanmek Palace by Naveen Marasinghe
Bangkok offers scores of beautiful sights and monuments with the Grand Palace complex and numerous temples topping the priority list of all tourists. Their grandeur and architecture are so fascinating that other sights are often left out of their schedule. Two such buildings that are exquisite in their own right and worth visiting, are the Jim Thompson House and the Vimanmek Palace. Both are typical examples of the finest Thai residences in Bangkok today.
Jim Thompson was an American architect who served in Bangkok during World War II. He fell in love with the city and returned here, finding it difficult to live in New York. He is the man who popularized Thai silk all over the world. He loved Thai artifacts and built a huge collection of these. He assembled portions of abandoned, dilapidated Thai homes from central Thailand, in typical Thai style, into what is Jim Thompson House today. The house is open to the public and has been preserved along with his personal belongings. He disappeared under mysterious circumstances from the Cameron Highlands in 1967, but he lives on as a legend.
The Vimanmek Palace is the largest golden teakwood mansion in the world. Constructed in the early 1900s it served as the residence of King Rama V. The mansion's three floors, huge staircases and octagonal 81 rooms signify regal opulence. The gorgeous collection of antiques and objects d'art is fascinating for tourists who admire the beauty and serenity around. The mansion has performances of Thai classical and folk dances every day. The site offers guided tours in English that last for three hours.
While you are visiting Bangkok, take a trip outside of the city, to areas such as Sukhumvit, where you can easily find nature adventures. Serviced apartments in Bangkok can serve as your accommodation facilities, while Sukhumvit apartments are excellent if you intend to stay in the suburbs for a few days
About the Author
Naveen Marasinghe is an Online Marketing Executive at eMarketingEye which is a search engine marketing agency that offers integrated Internet marketing solutions and specializes in serving the online travel and hospitality industry. (http://www.emarketingeye.com/ )
Bangkok offers scores of beautiful sights and monuments with the Grand Palace complex and numerous temples topping the priority list of all tourists. Their grandeur and architecture are so fascinating that other sights are often left out of their schedule. Two such buildings that are exquisite in their own right and worth visiting, are the Jim Thompson House and the Vimanmek Palace. Both are typical examples of the finest Thai residences in Bangkok today.
Jim Thompson was an American architect who served in Bangkok during World War II. He fell in love with the city and returned here, finding it difficult to live in New York. He is the man who popularized Thai silk all over the world. He loved Thai artifacts and built a huge collection of these. He assembled portions of abandoned, dilapidated Thai homes from central Thailand, in typical Thai style, into what is Jim Thompson House today. The house is open to the public and has been preserved along with his personal belongings. He disappeared under mysterious circumstances from the Cameron Highlands in 1967, but he lives on as a legend.
The Vimanmek Palace is the largest golden teakwood mansion in the world. Constructed in the early 1900s it served as the residence of King Rama V. The mansion's three floors, huge staircases and octagonal 81 rooms signify regal opulence. The gorgeous collection of antiques and objects d'art is fascinating for tourists who admire the beauty and serenity around. The mansion has performances of Thai classical and folk dances every day. The site offers guided tours in English that last for three hours.
While you are visiting Bangkok, take a trip outside of the city, to areas such as Sukhumvit, where you can easily find nature adventures. Serviced apartments in Bangkok can serve as your accommodation facilities, while Sukhumvit apartments are excellent if you intend to stay in the suburbs for a few days
About the Author
Naveen Marasinghe is an Online Marketing Executive at eMarketingEye which is a search engine marketing agency that offers integrated Internet marketing solutions and specializes in serving the online travel and hospitality industry. (http://www.emarketingeye.com/ )
Chiang Mai Markets, Thailand - Handicraft Shopping Paradise
Chiang Mai Markets, Thailand - Handicraft Shopping Paradise by Siwawut Chaiya
Chiang Mai is shopping paradise for most travelers because of its unequaled abundance of handicrafts and quaint local goods sold at very affordable prices. Shopping venues are scattered around the city both at day and night; the range of products for sale is vast and many visitors to Chiang Mai include an extra empty bag to their shopping list in order to haul the bounty home. Each of several famous markets has gained recognition and nationwide popularity as the best overall place for buying quality hand-made products at very reasonable prices. As Chiang Mai is a well established tourist destination, finding accommodations and getting around the city are not something to worry about.
Chiang Mai is recognized as one of the handicrafts centers of Asia because it has a very large system of street markets and local markets that are very easily accessible. The markets trace down many blocks along bustling streets and that sometimes seem to have no end. The limiting factor in how much market you will be able to cover may often depend on how far you want to go before your feet tire out. The products are available in a vast variety including a wide range of wood work, silk products, silver art and jewelry, clothing, ceramics, interior decor, antiques, Buddhist art, lacquer work, and the list goes on…
Chiang Mai Night Bazaar is the most well known night market in Thailand, taking up about 10 square blocks centered on Chang Klan road in central Chiang Mai. It is easy to spend a whole night just strolling past hundreds of street-side stalls and indoor arcades. The Night Bazaar is a great place to shop for exotic and beautiful handcrafted goods created by local artisans and skilled crafts-persons from the surrounding villages. The quality is generally high and some very good values can by found, especially if you are skilled at bartering a good deal.
Chiang Mai Walking Street can be a very nice alternative to the more hectic Night Bazaar and prices are aimed more at the locals so prices are generally low; so much that often there is no room to negotiate a bargain. The Walking Street Market is open only on Sundays and is a definite must see because the atmosphere is very relaxed, the market street is quite beautiful and this is an excellent place to mingle with the wonderful Thai people and to find fantastic bargains. The entire Walking Street is about 1 kilometer long and runs the entire length of Ratchadamneurn Road beginning at Thapae Gate and ending at Wat Prasing. Apart from a wide range of hand-made products on offer, one can also enjoy many Thai food stalls, street performances of a traditional nature, and also some much need massage and foot massage.
More serious shoppers can go directly to the villages and factories that manufacture handicrafts and other products and offer for wholesale at San Kamphaeng. Borsang village, just before San Kamphaeng, also has many shops offering a range of handicrafts and is renowned for its unique Borsang umbrellas. Baan Tawai just south of Chiang Mai is home to a wide range of wood carving, wood décor, and other handicrafts.
Chiang Mai is also popular for the diverse ethnic arts that you can find many hill tribe shops across the city. One recommended hill tribe shop is the Hill Tribe Products Promotion Center on Suthep Road next to Suan Dok Temple. It was established by His Majesty the King to promote the products created by 6 different tribes in Chiang Mai including Akha, Karen, Yao, Hmong, Lisu, and Lahu. This is aimed at generating alternative income to replace a reliance on opium cultivation in the past. Shop here for unique ethnic goods and help the hill tribe people.
Those who are interested in modern shops of the much more commercial variety, there are two big shopping centers: Kad Suan Kaew Plaza and Central Airport Plaza. The latter is relatively new and less than 5 minutes from the Chiang Mai International Airport. Panthip Plaza on the same road as Night Bazaar is ideal for techy people who are looking for computers and electronic gadgets with many discounts and a wide range of technical product available at good prices.
Chiang Mai offers more than shopping venues. It is a friendly and beautiful city with rich history steeped in Thai Lanna culture. Hundreds of temples and historical sites are found everywhere across the city and it is very easy to head out of the city to some spectacular natural areas. When not shopping, a visitor can enjoy waterfalls, elephant shows, and trekking tours. Some may be attracted by the more adventurous activities such as white water rafting, bungee jumping and paintball battle. Whatever you could ask for in a trip, Chiang Mai can offer… plus a whole lot more.
For information about vacation planning or traveling in Chiang Mai, please visit www.chiangmai-vacations.com.
About the Author
My name is Siwawut Chaiya and my nickname is Tom. I am a 23 year old writer from Chiang Mai Thailand. This is my second article on Goarticles.com. You are free to copy my article but please attach my website: www.thailandtravelonline.com as a reference site. Thank you!
Chiang Mai is shopping paradise for most travelers because of its unequaled abundance of handicrafts and quaint local goods sold at very affordable prices. Shopping venues are scattered around the city both at day and night; the range of products for sale is vast and many visitors to Chiang Mai include an extra empty bag to their shopping list in order to haul the bounty home. Each of several famous markets has gained recognition and nationwide popularity as the best overall place for buying quality hand-made products at very reasonable prices. As Chiang Mai is a well established tourist destination, finding accommodations and getting around the city are not something to worry about.
Chiang Mai is recognized as one of the handicrafts centers of Asia because it has a very large system of street markets and local markets that are very easily accessible. The markets trace down many blocks along bustling streets and that sometimes seem to have no end. The limiting factor in how much market you will be able to cover may often depend on how far you want to go before your feet tire out. The products are available in a vast variety including a wide range of wood work, silk products, silver art and jewelry, clothing, ceramics, interior decor, antiques, Buddhist art, lacquer work, and the list goes on…
Chiang Mai Night Bazaar is the most well known night market in Thailand, taking up about 10 square blocks centered on Chang Klan road in central Chiang Mai. It is easy to spend a whole night just strolling past hundreds of street-side stalls and indoor arcades. The Night Bazaar is a great place to shop for exotic and beautiful handcrafted goods created by local artisans and skilled crafts-persons from the surrounding villages. The quality is generally high and some very good values can by found, especially if you are skilled at bartering a good deal.
Chiang Mai Walking Street can be a very nice alternative to the more hectic Night Bazaar and prices are aimed more at the locals so prices are generally low; so much that often there is no room to negotiate a bargain. The Walking Street Market is open only on Sundays and is a definite must see because the atmosphere is very relaxed, the market street is quite beautiful and this is an excellent place to mingle with the wonderful Thai people and to find fantastic bargains. The entire Walking Street is about 1 kilometer long and runs the entire length of Ratchadamneurn Road beginning at Thapae Gate and ending at Wat Prasing. Apart from a wide range of hand-made products on offer, one can also enjoy many Thai food stalls, street performances of a traditional nature, and also some much need massage and foot massage.
More serious shoppers can go directly to the villages and factories that manufacture handicrafts and other products and offer for wholesale at San Kamphaeng. Borsang village, just before San Kamphaeng, also has many shops offering a range of handicrafts and is renowned for its unique Borsang umbrellas. Baan Tawai just south of Chiang Mai is home to a wide range of wood carving, wood décor, and other handicrafts.
Chiang Mai is also popular for the diverse ethnic arts that you can find many hill tribe shops across the city. One recommended hill tribe shop is the Hill Tribe Products Promotion Center on Suthep Road next to Suan Dok Temple. It was established by His Majesty the King to promote the products created by 6 different tribes in Chiang Mai including Akha, Karen, Yao, Hmong, Lisu, and Lahu. This is aimed at generating alternative income to replace a reliance on opium cultivation in the past. Shop here for unique ethnic goods and help the hill tribe people.
Those who are interested in modern shops of the much more commercial variety, there are two big shopping centers: Kad Suan Kaew Plaza and Central Airport Plaza. The latter is relatively new and less than 5 minutes from the Chiang Mai International Airport. Panthip Plaza on the same road as Night Bazaar is ideal for techy people who are looking for computers and electronic gadgets with many discounts and a wide range of technical product available at good prices.
Chiang Mai offers more than shopping venues. It is a friendly and beautiful city with rich history steeped in Thai Lanna culture. Hundreds of temples and historical sites are found everywhere across the city and it is very easy to head out of the city to some spectacular natural areas. When not shopping, a visitor can enjoy waterfalls, elephant shows, and trekking tours. Some may be attracted by the more adventurous activities such as white water rafting, bungee jumping and paintball battle. Whatever you could ask for in a trip, Chiang Mai can offer… plus a whole lot more.
For information about vacation planning or traveling in Chiang Mai, please visit www.chiangmai-vacations.com.
About the Author
My name is Siwawut Chaiya and my nickname is Tom. I am a 23 year old writer from Chiang Mai Thailand. This is my second article on Goarticles.com. You are free to copy my article but please attach my website: www.thailandtravelonline.com as a reference site. Thank you!
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