Phuket Spiagge - le "K3"

Kata Noi Beach - Kata Beach - Karon Beach



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wHSTi87q_AA&hl=en

Very Important Information You Need to Know Before Investing in Koh Samui Property

Koh Samui, Thailand

Koh Samui, Thailand has long been the locale of choice for paradise seeking foreigners from all parts of the globe. Its shimmering turquoise waters and sun bleached, white sandy bays are lined with bungalows, villas and resorts. Its happening night life with a plethora of restaurants feeds the epicureans and provides a magnificent back drop to beautiful sunsets and starry nights. It's no wonder that so many foreigners want to own property in Koh Samui, but like any other property market in the world, it's important to know understand the legal implications, visa requirements, and tax guidelines involved before deciding which property you are going to invest in.

Getting To The Island

Before investing in Koh Samui property, you must first feel confident that traveling to and from the island has been made easy and convenient for tourists. After all, they play a major part in helping Samui's economy grow and helping tourists get to the island should be top priority. The most convenient way to get to Samui is by flying with Bangkok Airways from Bangkok, Singapore, Phuket, Pattaya, and Chiang Mai. There are 15 daily 80 minute flights between Samui and Bangkok and 4 weekly 90 minute flights between Koh Samui and Singapore. Alternatively, several ferries and catamarans run from Surat Thani or Don Sak on the Thai mainland. There are almost 10 daily departures between Samui and Ko Pha-Ngan.

The Samui airport is a unique and highly successful experiment in building an airport that is kind to both the cultural and natural environments of a tropical island resort. Flying in, you get brief glimpses of outlying islands, streaks of surf, the wakes of small fishing craft sketched across the calm aquamarine sea. Smudges of coral reef dapple the water as you come in closer still. Then the coast of Samui appears. Two hundred and fifty kilometers of tropical hideaway scalloped by dozens of bays rimmed in white sand, carpeted in lush textures of forested hill and coconut grove, Samui is the centerpiece in a group of 80 other islands set in the Gulf of Thailand.

Located 2km north of the main village Chaweng, Koh Samui Airport serves both domestic and international flights including Bangkok Airways, Thai Airways International, Berjaya Air, and Firefly.

Koh Samui Property Tax Guidelines

If you've already done your research and you are looking to invest in Koh Samui property, you really should understand how the tax liability can affect your overall return.

All Koh Samui property owners in Thailand are liable for tax on rental income, which is based on either standard personal income tax (PIT) rates for "resident" tax payers and a at 15% PIT rate on assessable income for non-resident tax payers. A person becomes a "resident" tax payer if he or she spends more than 180 days in any tax year in Thailand. Thailand does not charge a separate capital gains tax for foreign buyers. All earned income from capital gains is taxed the same as regular income. The highest rate of income tax is currently 37% per year.

When purchasing property in Koh Samui, it is quite standard for the purchaser to be solely responsible for the payment of all transfer fees as well as taxes duly charged by the competent land office in connection with the registration of transfer of ownership of the property. This includes the government transfer fee, withholding tax and specific business tax as well as stamp duty and other costs and expenses arising out of the registration of the transfer of ownership to the purchaser.

Transfer fees are typically 2% of the registered value, stamp duty is.5% of registered value, withholding tax is 1% of the appraised value, and business tax is 3.3% of appraised value. Income tax is usually between 1-3% on Koh Samui property. There are no established rules regarding who pays the income tax while this is simply another part of the bargaining process during the property purchase as are all other costs relating to the transfer of ownership. Tax on Rental Income is 10-30% of rental income depending on the type of property. Lease Registration Fee is 1.1%

Transferring Money To Purchase Samui Property

Unlike most developed economies where transferring money to and from bank accounts is relatively straight forward and easy, this is NOT the case in emerging markets like Thailand. Before purchasing property in Koh Samui, it is very important to understand exactly how to transact and what needs to be done prior to purchase. Reason for the complexity of this issue is because of the Thai laws concerning Foreign ownership of Condominium Property. According to Thai Law, foreigners may own 49 percent of the aggregate sale-able unit space of a condominium building while the remaining 51 percent must be owned by either Thai nationals or majority owned Thai Companies. Below is a step by step guide on how to transfer money when dealing with Koh Samui properties.

A Thai bank account must be set up in your name in order to transfer money to yourself before exchanging your currency to Thai Baht. Any foreign currency can be used to purchase a condominium unit. The foreign currency must be transferred into Thailand as foreign currency and then exchanged into Thai Baht by a local bank in Thailand. In many cases, the developer may offer to help you establish a bank account in Thailand due to the complexity of establishing an account yourself. This may come at an extra cost, however developers are always willing to negotiate or waive this cost if it helps get the deal done.
Foreigners are required to remit at least USD 20,000.00 into Thailand per transfer to receive a FOREX Transfer Form. (Transfers of funds must be made in FOREIGN CURRENCY only and NOT in Thai Baht, i.e. if you are working in US Dollars then remit in US Dollars. Do not remit in Thai Baht. This form will be needed to transfer the unit under foreign ownership and also remit money back out of Thailand if so needed in the future.
Documents needed when buying a condominium: For foreigners to be eligible to purchase a condominium unit in Thailand they must present proof to the Department of Lands that the funds have been remitted from overseas in foreign currency. Without such proof, the Department of Lands will not register the transfer of ownership to the foreign buyer.
Remittances must be sent in exactly ("to the letter") the same name as appearing on the purchase contract, (i.e. if Tom Smith is the buyer then the name Tom Smith must appear on the remittance advice. T. Smith or Smith Enterprises are unacceptable.) If the buyers are two individuals, then two names should appear on the contract and two separate remittances should be made by such two persons, in equal amounts.
The purchaser has to include the transfer instruction indicating that the purpose of this money is to buy a condominium unit. The bank that receives money in foreign currency will issue the document (Foreign Exchange Transaction Form) which contains the following information:

The transferred amount in foreign currency
The transferred amount in Thai Baht
The name of money sender
The name of money receiver
The purpose of transferring

Normally throughout the transfer process, the purchaser has to instruct the gateway bank to identify the name of the sender to be the same as the receiver's. The Land Department will accept the name of purchaser to be either sender or receiver of the transferred money.

**Remark**

If the money receiver is an individual but wants to put the unit in the names of two people, the sender has to instruct the gateway bank to specify the names of two people together with the purpose of buying condominium.

For example:

Mr. Smith transferred money to Mr. John and would like to put down the names of two people, Mr. Smith must also instruct his bank to specify the purpose as being to buy the condominium by both Mr. Smith and Mr. John. In this case, the land department can accept this and permit the transfer.

The Land Department also can accept the transfer even if the sender's name of the receiver's name is not the purchaser's name but the sender should instruct the gateway bank to put the purpose as being to buy the condominium by (Purchaser's name). The amount of money must be equal to or higher than the selling price declared to the Land Department.

Alternatives To Transferring Money To Purchase Koh Samui Property

For the avoidance of any doubt, we recommend wherever possible that Samui property buyers arrange for their local bank to issue the Foreign Exchange Transaction Form for all remittances. In this case you would transfer the funds directly to the Developer's bank account in the prescribed format, and the Developer will arrange for the Foreign Exchange Transaction Form to be issued by the Developer's Bank.

For the buyers convenience, we strongly recommend that you transfer the funds directly to the Developer's bank account, but ONLY do so if you know and trust the developers and know exactly where your money is going. In most cases, the developers will use a third party escrow arrangement typically put together by a local attorney. This is always the most secure way to exchange contracts as the developers are not allowed to access your funds until the title deed on the property has been transferred to you.

Why does the developer need to use Foreign Exchange Transaction Form?

Because the Bank of Thailand controls the flow of foreign currency, every single baht must have a source and a reason. The Land Department must perform in accordance with this regulation. By this restriction, every foreign buyer must transfer money from abroad.
Non-residents who sell the condominium and transfer the money out of country do not have to pay the remittance tax (normally the tax is around 30%)
In case of transferring money out of the country, the tax-free amount is determined by the initial amount transferred.

Transfer of title deed Documents needed: For Individual Purchaser

Passport (copy if applicable, marriage/divorce certificate including a letter of consent
From your spouse if married [Thai Language]).
Foreign Exchange Transaction Form or credit note.
Power of attorney, if anyone but yourself is representing you, in Thai script with a
Notarization by Notary Public or if overseas by the Thai Consulate.

Corporate Documents needed: For Company Purchaser

Certified copy of the certificate of incorporation
Certified copy of the memorandum of association
Notaries certificate
List of shareholders (in English, but must be accompanied by a Thai translation)
Minutes of directors' meetings, which have a resolution to sell/purchase the property
(specifying name and number and agenda dealing with the finance of the purchase if the
company's registered capital is less than the purchase price)
Letter of advice regarding specific¬ signature
Power of attorney, if the authorized directors do not make the transaction by themselves
(Land Department form)
Free debt letter
Foreign co-owner letter
The certified copy of the I.D. Card of the authorized directors
The certified copy of the house registration of the authorized directors
Title deed of the condominium unit

Thai Visa Requirements

Please note that whilst we believe the below information is accurate, it is recommended to verify requirements with the Royal Thai Embassy before travel.

Many Non-Thai residents require a visa to stay in the country for more than 30 days. However, most African countries require a visa to enter Thailand - Cyprus, Czech Republic, India, Maldives, Oman, Poland, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Taiwan, Ukraine are allowed 15 days under the visa exemption. A Non-Immigrant Visa is valid for up to 90 days, but can be extended for up to a year at a time, depending on eligibility criteria. Retirement visas for individuals over 50 years old are readily available, subject to certain other criteria, tourist visas for stays of more than 30 days and less than 60 days and work permits for those with specific skills can be applied for via the Thai Embassy or consulate in your home country.

Use An Investment Firm Or Relevant Developer To Assist You With The Purchase of Your Koh Samui Property

Well you can't say we didn't warn you that purchasing property in Samui would be extremely complicated which is why we strongly suggest that you use a real estate agent or investment firm to assist you with the purchase of your Samui property. Often times the developer or agent that you are purchasing the property from will do everything they can to make this process as affordable and convenient as possible. After all, it's in their interest to get this property deal done, and they should be more than glad to help you through it. Another reason it is beneficial to use the developer or registered agent, is because they already have the experience and connections to get you through this transaction. Because they've transacted several times before on Koh Samui properties, they know exactly who to go to and for what circumstance. It is very likely that they already have escrow arrangements established and banks in place to handle all of the paper work for you. In many instances, they may even use their company as the "buyer" and then issue shares in the company which then gives you legal ownership. This method of purchase avoids the issue of only being able to purchase 49% of a unit due to Thai law.

Global Timeshare Market Expansion, Regulations, and Events

RCI, the largest vacation ownership exchange company in the world has been adding more and more member resorts in exotic locations which make more international exchanges possible for its members. To date, there are now 82 member resorts in India. The consumers are benefiting from the new and expanded choices. RCI has more than 4000 member resorts.

If you want to look at some of the developments in Asia, Africa, or the Mideast you can go to websites such as YouTube where savvy developers such as Absolute are showing footage of projects being developed. Gone are the days when all you could do was get on an airplane and check out the exotic places. Today, your vacation resort options are  available for inspection right on your computer. 

Vacationing has always been much more widely practiced in Europe then in the United States. US workers tend to do more working and less vacationing that our European counterparts.  Statistically, Europeans have an average of 30 vacation days while here in the USA we average about 10 or 11 days of vacation. The Europeans living in big metropolitan cities will vacation to seaside locations in Europe, Asia, the Mideast, Africa, the Australian Continent, and across the pond to the United States.

People ask me if there are specific companies who are pushing forward on the international  markets and making an impact on the market. Absolute is embracing Asia with offerings in Phukhet and Hong Kong.

In 2009,  laws passed in the United Arab Emirates regulating vacation  ownership and agreements were signed between developers and RCI pertaining to their  exchange.

We are excited to say that there is a new Vacation Ownership Association of Southern Africa which is hosting a conference in Johannesburg, South Africa to discuss the changes in the industry laws. New to South Africa is the Zorgvliet Private Residence Club and their offerings  of ownership in a luxurious river lodge on approximately 40,000 acres of privately owned Big Five Game Reserve, or  of a vineyard and boutique hotel.

In London, the Fractional Summit was to help participants understand the emerging  market in Europe.

For economic reasons, many who could afford to buy the entire vacation home are opting  to purchase a portion of the property as a way to share the economic  risk, cost, and maintenance expenses with others.  

Many vacation ownership  purchases in Asia, Africa, and Mideast locations may also include the use of other luxury assets and amenities during their stay. Consumers are opting for more access to luxury vehicles or other luxury transportation options such as yacht usage, boat docking, butler service, and even flight hours on a private jet. RCI has added two Malaysia luxury resorts as affiliates and they are the Country Villas waterfront homes and the Palace of the Golden Horses. The Palace of the Golden Horses and the Country Villas are located 20 to 30 minutes from Kuala Lumpur International Airport.

Millennium Resort, Patong Beach, Phuket, Thailand will host Asia's first shared ownership conference Oct 12-13, 2009 called the Alternative Ownership Conference Hotels and Resorts-Asia Pacific to help provide knowledge and understanding of this growing industry .

Paul Mattimoe, Editor of The Perspective Magazine,  specializes in sharing with world the latest developments in the timeshare  and fractional industries. His high-quality magazine publications cover trends in development, financing, and industry employment.  The Perspective Magazines also  provide industry updates online and global  job listings.

World's Coolest Beach Hotels

Stretches of unspoiled white sand, shady palm trees, sparkling turquoise seas - beach holidays are still the most popular way to escape from it all!

Here are the 10 top spots to pose in your Chanel swimsuit with a cocktail in your hand; the coolest beach hotels in the world.

1. W Retreat and Spa, Maldives

One of the world's premier chains, W Hotels have truly outdone themselves at their Maldives retreat. Set on a private island, it's a favourite hideaway for VIPs. From the infinity pool to the six lavish dining options and designer cocktails at UMbar, this luxury hotel is the epitome of beachside chic.

2. Albergo della Regina Isabella, Ischica, Italy

Ischica has been famed for centuries for its thermal baths and, with one of the best spas in Europe, the Regina Isabella has become a home from home for the cream of Italian high society. Opulent, hand-carved furnishings and soft sorbet shades compliment the old-fashioned elegance of the island setting.

3. Aleenta Phuket - Phang Nga, Thailand

Luxurious villas and a long stretch of private beach make the Aleenta Phuket an idyllic place to indulge. In every room, pre-programmed iPods keep guests entertained with the latest tunes. Nearby, the Phang Nga National Park is home to many of the world's best dive sites.

4. The Chedi, Muscat, Oman

Oman might not be the first place that springs to mind for luxury beach hotels, but everything about The Chedi is fashionable. The emphasis on clean lines and exquisite gardens add to the oasis calm. For party-lovers, there are complimentary (and refillable) decanters of gin, whisky and vodka in each room.

5. Four Seasons Resort, Maui, Hawaii

Both the Four Seasons and Maui conjure up images of Hollywood stars sipping champagne, and this lavish hotel doesn't disappoint. Smooth service, seaside massages and free diving keep the iconic resort a firm favourite.

6. Tivoli Ecoresort Praia do Forte, Salvador, Brazil

Eco-chic is hot on the celebrity scene right now, and this sumptuous hideaway offers sophistication, Ocean views and a five-star spa - all with a clean conscience.

7. El Hotel Pacha, Ibiza, Spain

Long a by-word for cutting-edge music, Pacha has the world's coolest clubbing clientele. This minimalist suite-only hotel is a stone's throw from the super club and includes free entry.

8. Bora Bora Nui Resort and Spa Hotel, French Polynesia

Stranded on a tiny tropical island in the South Pacific, the Bora Bora Nui Resort is breath-taking from the moment of arrival. Refined service draws in the cream of the paradise-seekers.

9. Cap Estel, Cote d'Azur, France

The top hotel on the star-studded French Rivera, Cap Estel is so outrageously trendy that it looks like a set from a James Bond movie.

10. Floris Suite Hotel, Netherlands Antilles

Oozing elegant style, this luxury escape in the Dutch Caribbean is a top spot for hip urbanites. Philippe Stark's design brings New York cool to the minimalist interior.

thailand allowance bout (part 2)

part 2 because my mum kept pressing the button.



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_nNWmJlrYks&hl=en

How to Find the Right Lawyer in Phuket, Thailand

Phuket is the largest island of Thailand found in the Andaman Sea. Its economy mainly relies on the rubber industry (being the biggest rubber producer in the world) and tourism. Though relatively one of the most expensive retirement destinations in Thailand, thousands of expatriates still prefer to reside in Phuket.

Due to the enormous progress in the island, services of Thailand lawyers have become more in demand for both Thai nationals and foreigners alike. Instead of personally handling Phuket real estate transactions, for instance, people hire legal experts in order to save them time and effort, as well as to prevent any complication with Thai property laws. Investors who want to establish a business in Phuket also prefer to hire a lawyer for the Thai company registration, visa and work permit and other legal matter concerning to registering a company in Thailand.

Increasing demand for legal services in the island has brought in many small and big time law firms in Thailand to expand their practice to Phuket. Though there are few licensed local attorneys based there, not all can be classified as competent and knowledgeable on the legal technicalities involving law from the foreigners' home country as it relates to their activities in Phuket. Samples of such instances are the Thailand prenuptial agreement and its relationship to the laws in the foreigners' home country or drafting of a Thai Will to fully cover both the assets in their home jurisdiction as well as in Thailand. A Thailand lawyer with experience handling legal works with foreigners is a necessity.

Extra care must be observed in order to protect your interest and by way of making sure that the Phuket law firm that you will hire is worth the fees. Take the following tips to save yourself from the hands of inept attorneys.

1. Do not grab the first lawyer who offers his service. Always check all the available options. Talk with 2 or 3 lawyers and select the one you feel most comfortable with.

2. Do not be deceived by advertisements. Some are actually too good to be true. It is better to select one that proposes realistic claims.

3. Do check the internet. Typically, the most popular and established firms are able to create websites that covers the Phuket legal services they render. Some even render free assistance via chat or emails. Their replies will reflect their expertise on the field and will actually reveal if they are capable enough to handle the case.

4. Do try to check their law office in Phuket. A personal visit at the place of business can show you how professional the Law Firm operates. This will also give you the opportunity to ask the Phuket lawyer some questions such as the field of legal expertise, services being rendered and the corresponding rate being charged.

Spicy Thai Restuarant Beach Pier Coast Ban Phe Thailand TEFL International

www.tefllife.com guaranteed job placement. Traveling through Asia in Ban Phe Thailand as a volunteer TEFL English Teacher. World Locations: North America, Europe, South America, South East Asia:Alexandria Egypt, Ban Phe Thailand, Barcelona Spain, Beijing China, Buenos Aires Argentina, Catagena Colombia, Cebu Philippines, Chiang Mai Thailand, Corinth Greece, Costa Rica USA, Dubai UAE, Florence Italy, Granada Spain, Ho Chi Min City Vietnam, Istanbul Turkey, Kathmandu Nepal, Kolkata India, Limassol Cyprus, London UK, Medellín Colombia, Montreal Canada, New York USA, Phuket Thailand, Plelauff France, Port Elizabeth South Africa, Prague Czech Republic, Rome Italy, Seville Spain, Shanghai China, South Korea, Sydney Australia, Wejherowo Poland, Zhuhi China.



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NwJHHPShytM&hl=en

10 reasons why you visit Phuket, Thailand must

Before Beaches -. Most tourists who come for the white and picturesque beaches of Phuket. Head for the unspoiled white shores of Laem Ka Beach, Nai Thon or Nai Yang little 'peace and quiet or head for Karon or Kata feeling optimism for your entertainment.

According to Traditional Thai Spicy Food - For those who love spice, Thailand you would be heaven with their selection of spicy dishes like Tom Yam Goong, Som Tham and Pad Thai, all favorites are national.

ThirdMuai Thai - if it can be seen on television or even in some parts of the world, nobody Muai Thai like the place it originated from. This fascinating sport not just boxing, like the rituals that take place before a fight, and the music that accompanies the games to get the whole vision.

A fourth elephant Trek - Sure, you can ride an elephant almost anywhere in the world, but here is a unique experience to sit forever in your mind. Take a ride elephantwhile the forests of Phuket and go a half day Eco Trail as your guide takes you to places off the beaten track.

Fifth Great snorkel - the waters around Phuket are a dream for snorkeling and tried for those who have not yet, this would be the perfect memory for your first. Take a boat trip to nearby islands such as coral islands or Similan Islands, reaching a much more magic there.

Sixth Cabaret! - This is a must for all to seeAdults outside. Phuket Simon Cabaret attracts thousands of visitors daily, and for good reason. to its charm, originality and fun it's worth it for a really nice performance. Again, no Thais as the Cabaret!

Seventh Temples - Wat Chalong Temples visit as, like the inhabitants of Phuket to be the pride or some other equally beautiful and mysterious as those Wat Wat Suwan Khiri Khet Prathong or go.

8th Patong - One and only place in Phuket where you can play at night during the day and the party. The lively nightlife of Patong is so contagious that soon there are just let go and dance all night boogying!

Ninth Cheap Shopping - Seriously one of the cheapest seats in the store today's world, she would regret if you pass the opportunity to get almost anything here!

10th The best part of Thailand is Phuket. There is no place in> Thailand as beautiful or as a relaxing, fun and dynamic as Phuket.

US Navy sailors advice at Thalang National museum

A group of 20 US Navy sailors from 2 destroyer ships, USS Decatur and Chancellorsville, which were visiting Phuket last week, made a Community Relations or what they call ComRel trip. to the Thalang National Museum in Phuket last Friday 31 October. With help from the Rotary Club of Patong Beach in supplies and liason, they painted about 40 of the old columns at the entrance of the government run museum, which has lacked sufficient funds, yet is an important location telling the history of the island in particular the nearby battle between Burmese invaders and Thai villagers led by two Heroines over 200 years ago. The US Navy sailors however came in peace to museum not to destroy anything but help decorate and improve the entrance. Not a particularly difficult or exciting job compared to tasks at sea but one worthy of attention and gratitude by the Thai staff of the museum, who helped them choose the right columns and even do a few extra themselves. Troy Nicholson, Chief Petty Officer on USS Decatur, who was in charge of this group told us more about the activity on Halloween Day and just before the US Election back home: There are about 14 of uswhenever opportunities take advantage of it Have you enjoyed visit otherwise? ..halloweenUS election next week. After painting and a wash up, The US sailors were treated to a display of Thai traditional Manora dancing& music by a local Thai dancer in the nearby community. Lets watch & listen to some of her show: After watching her ...



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o1WPLqlLLao&hl=en

Phuket Backwater River Tour

Captain Brent Crude takes Yad, Khun Tim and myyself along a tour through the Phuket Town backwater river and out to Phang Nga Bay seafood restaurant out at sea. Engaging in sophisticated discussions.



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zhvpwmGie7o&hl=en

Kata Beach Resort Phuket Outside Tour 2008

www.phuketdining.com http Kata Beach Resort Phuket Outside Tour 2008 The beautiful Kata Beach resort is located on the southern end of Kata beach. This is one of the most beautiful resorts in Phuket, it overlooks beautiful Kata beach which really adds tranquility to it. This video gives you an outside tour of the northern end of the resort on the road side, here you will see some of the new shops they added. I live up on the northern end of Kata beach so I like to come down here often, I run by this resort on a daily basis during my early morning exercise and I always run into folks out enjoying the beach. If you like to surf or body board the southern area of Kata beach is the best location for it. So when you are in Phuket, check out Kata Beach, youll be glad you did, it really is a special place.Thank you so much for stopping by and check back often for more of my Phuket videos. Do you love Phuket as much as I do? Check out my new addition to Phuketdining.com; the Phuket Dreamer phuketdreamer.ning.com where you will see tons more pictures and stories about this wonderful Island in paradise. Sincerely, Keith The retired Navy SEAL Buds Class 137



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SQUG-tLIHjI&hl=en

Phuket James Bond Tour, Part 1

Phuket, Thailand's "James Bond" tour boat ride.



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yp_cx1L-vZU&hl=en

Phuket Trip Jan '07 Part 2

Gorb and M on tour



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BZvgUW0uXP0&hl=en

Patong Beach

Patong beach is the most popular beach area of Phuket. Most of the travelers that spend their holiday on this popular Island in Thailand will end up staying at a resort or hotel which is located in Patong. We would like explain why this resort area is so popular compared to other beach resort areas such as Kamala beach, Karon beach, Kata beach and Surin beach.

Patong beach is where the largest variety of activities, restaurants, nightlife venues and tourism infrastructure can be found. Travelers can also select from an overwhelming range of hotels and resorts.  Tourists who enjoy shopping will also most certainly enjoy spending their holiday as there are a number of excellent shopping venues such as the Jungceylon shopping mall and the Bangla Ocean Plaza.

Attractions

There are plenty of fun and interesting tourist attractions for travelers to choose from in Patong beach. Obviously there is the beautiful white sandy beach and all the water sport activities which are organized there. Another very popular tourist attraction is Simons Cabaret. This Thai ladyboy cabaret show is one of the most popular attractions of Phuket and their shows are suitable for visitors of all ages. Another popular attraction is the elephant rides which are organized opposite the Safari Club.

Hotels

There are plenty of excellent Patong beach hotels and resorts for travelers to choose from. This popular destination is also home to a large variety of guesthouses which are an interesting option for those tourists who are traveling on a budget. The main differences between a guesthouse and regular hotel or resort lies in the amount of facilities offered at each type of accommodation. Guesthouses generally offer spacious guest rooms however do not have facilities such as swimming pools and fitness areas.

Nightlife

The nightlife of Phuket is well known around the globe and Patong beach is where travelers can find the best that the nightlife has to offer. There are a number of really great discos in on the island and these include the Tiger Disco, Safari Club, Seduction Discotheque and the Banana Disco. Other popular nightlife venues include the many beer bars found along Bangla Road as well as the Go Go bars found in Soi Sea Dragon.

Restaurants

There are hundreds of restaurants in Patong beach and you can basically find food from all corners of the world. As this resort area is such as popular place for expats to live and for tourists to visit, many foreigners wishing to live there  have opened a restaurant serving food from their home countries. If you enjoy fresh seafood then you will also be more than happy as some of the finest seafood restaurants of Thailand are located there.

PTT Expedition boscage Phuket Environment Day

Special report for Andaman News NBT TV (VHF dial) at 8.30am wake up repeatedly and perhaps Phuket Cable TV channel 1 at 15:30, 07:00 and 1:30 6:30, broadcast to Phang Nga and Krabi provinces of Phuket and maybe Mazz 07:00 Radio FM108 in Phuket, Friday, June 5, 2009 & & www.YouTube.com thainews.prd.go.th / AndamanNews AndamanNews@yahoo.com Send comments to go with many activities for World Environment Day to recognize Our special report today one of his captors, the young people involved. Lets seemore. The towering trees and huge trees reflects the fertility of virgin rainforest left only significant today in Phuket. In the area of 22 square kilometers on the north side of the island of Phuket, Khao Phrataew Park and Wildlife Sanctuary is also home to nature trails, trekking, which are exciting, challenging, but refreshing. The national park is also home to the rare Palm or White Back Palm sometimes even as governors. Welcomed many groups to spend time hiking or loveGetting close to nature. This week there is a trek in this way as co-host of Radio Thailand Phuket and PTTEP, the exploration and production companies to promote natural resources and environmental awareness of young people than ML Sidhichai Jayant, External Relations Manager, has stated: (voice) The path in the park consists of two lines. The shortest is 600 meters long and the other a more difficult path we took was four kilometers. It took the trekkers 3-4...



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GuktBf0u0zk&hl=en

Why Do People Blog?

What do people blog for? Is it for fun, fame, fortune... for the good of the online community? I'll tell you why I blog - it's because I want to make money. I want to be like John Chow, Shoemoney, Pro Blogger - all those guys. I want to do what they do because every day they tell me that I can do it.

These pro bloggers are making money by telling us how to make money. I've been visiting these blogs for several months but it's only now that I've taken the initiative to move from passively reading the achievements of pro bloggers to trying to emulate those achievements.

I consider myself a second level blogger. What I mean by that is that I am taking the information provided by the top level bloggers and making it apply to me. I am putting what they tell me to the test to try and make money.

Without the top level pro bloggers there wouldn't be people like me who really don't know much about what they're doing.

I get frustrated when I see bloggers write that they're not doing it for the money, but rather, they're doing it for us. Come on! What blogger in their right mind is going to make $1,000 plus a month for the general good of the online world? If that's how it is then give the money to charity instead of buying a new computer or an iPhone.

There are a large proportion of us who are in this blogging game to make money. But what do I have to offer in return? I'm not an expert in any field, I don't have any exceptional coding or graphics skills, and I don't know the first thing about business - so what is my place in the blogosphere?

I'm a 24-year-old English kid working for a newspaper and living on a tropical island in Southern Thailand. Life is pretty sweet, but when you live in a country where a decent meal costs 50 cents, it pays to have a second income. That's why I'm here and that's why I start my make money online blog.

But I'm nobody in the blogosphere... at the moment. I'm starting my blog from scratch, incorporating everything I've learned from the moguls over the past few months to see if I can justify my reason for blogging.

Phuket Trip Phi Phi bout Kat1

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C2Lge5U6A6w&hl=en

Low Cost Airlines

When Malaysian businessman Tony Fernandes launched a no-frills, low-cost airline in 2002 with only two planes, few people realised the effect it would have. From only four routes, Air Asia set off a low-fare revolution that changed the face of the airline industry in the region. It is a stunning success story and now has 35 aircraft and flies millions of passengers across south-east Asia every year.

If you want to book a ticket with a low-cost carrier, the first trick is to find out which airlines serve your intended route. With lower advertising budgets than traditional airlines, this is often quite difficult. For your convenience we have listed the major budget carriers serving the two prime destinations - Singapore, Thailand.

Singapore:

The major budget carriers operating to and from this island state are JetStar Asia and Tiger Airways. JetStar Asia covers most major destinations in south-east asia, as well as Bangalore and Kolkata in India.

Tiger Airways covers Bangkok and Phuket in Thailand, Macau, and Padang in Indonesia. It is the only budget carrier direct to Vietnam from Singapore and the only budget choice to Australia, flying from Singapore to Darwin).

Thailand:

The three main operators in Thailand are Thai Air Asia, Nok Air and One-Two-Go. Thai AirAsia was launched in January 2004. Based primarily in Bangkok, the airline serves Thailand's major domestic destinations, as well as Malaysia (Kuala Lumpur, Penang and Kota Kinabalu), Singapore, Macau, Xiamen and Hanoi.

Nok Air, a subsidiary of Thai Airways International, flies from Bangkok to domestic destinations such as Phuket, Chiang Mai, Hat Yai and Udon Thani. One-Two-Go covers the major domestic routes within Thailand with fixed-price tickets.

As the number of people flying has increased, so has the demand for hotel accommodation and other products. Both Thailand and Singapore hotels are experiencing boom times as more people can afford to visit.

K1 Visa Philippines - Interview Questions Tips

Honesty and consistency are the keys to answering interview questions for a K1 fiancé / fiancée visa. Consular officers conducting interviews are merely basing majority of their questions on the details indicated in the application form as well as the supporting documents attached to it.

Interview questions are usually formulated to discover the true objective of the applicant or the real purpose of travel to the US. In the K1 visa case, the applicant is to marry his/her American fiancé / fiancée once in the US. Apparently, the questions will revolve around the topic.

Officers conducting interviews will determine if there is an intention to get married upon applicant's arrival in the US. They may ask some intimate questions about the future spouses to establish whether or not the couple know each other well enough to substantiate an actual marriage. The succeeding common questions must be answered without concealment or deception.

"Where did you and your fiancé meet?"

"When and where did he propose?"

"When is your fiancé's date of birth?"

"Does he have any brothers or sisters?"

"What do his parents think about the engagement?"

"Do they approve of it?"

"What do you love about your fiancé?"

"Will you and your fiancé have children?"

"What are your plans for the future?"

Consular Officers also ascertain if the applicant possesses all the qualifications required by the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) by asking probing questions if indeed the applicant is qualified.

Applicants for K1 Visa Philippines should not hold back any information when asked. Full disclosure is the best strategy. Once the officer discovers that the applicant is not telling the truth, or misrepresents facts during the interview, the application will most likely be denied. Worst, the applicant may permanently be disqualified or considered as ineligible from ever entering the United States.

Review of Sivara Spa - Bangkok, Thailand

Sivara Spa is a luxury chain spa exclusive to Amari Hotels and Resorts in various parts of Thailand (Bangkok, Koh Chang, Krabi, Patttaya, Phuket, Samui, Trang)

On my last trip to Bangkok, I stayed at the Amari Watergate and Sivara Spa is tucked away on the 8th floor of the hotel and facing the swimming pool and health and fitness centre.

The Sivara Spa at the Amari Watergate Hotel in Bangkok is newly renovated to a modern and contemporary Thai style. As you walk into the reception, you can find a delightful interplay of bronze "lotus flowers", water walkways, stones, curtains, candlelight and flowers.

There are three spacious zen-themed double rooms and 5 single treatment rooms. Each of the themed double rooms is assigned to a signature treatment.

In the spa brochure own words, the various themes for the treatment rooms are:

The Mystical Forest room harnesses the spirit of the forest and allows guests to meditate on the power of nature. This botanically-inspired room features a tropical rain shower to wash away the stress of the day. The refreshing blends of essential oils used for the massages will leave the body feeling rejuvenated.

In Floral Bloom room, you can guarantee that tension will drain away and the spirit will be revived with a rose petal bath in this floral paradise. The fragrances of flowers will cleanse and purify your soul, whilst the ylang ylang, lavender and marjoram essential oils, used in the treatments, provide the ultimate feminine indulgence.

In the Herbal Inspiration room, the healing qualities of herbs - known for centuries, as nature's gift to mankind - are combined with luxurious pampering.

I opted for the "Sarada Package" (2hrs) treatment which comprises a oil massage & facial. I was not keen to do a facial and the receptionist was flexible enough to change the facial to a body scrub instead.

From the lighting and temperature in the room, to the volume of music and pressure applied during massages or scrubs, the therapist was so caring and considerate for my entire treatment. The gentle therapist at the spa truly live up to the gracious spirit of the Thai's spa culture.

For total relaxation, the Sivara Spa also offer a complete range of massage, spa, facial and body treatments. The selection of treatments include Thai and oil massages, body polishes and wraps, facials, and even a customized half day, full day, multi-days spa program. There is also the awesome 4-hands massage, which has become the signature treatment of high-end Thailand's spa, but due to time constraints, I could not find time for this famous treatment.

The prices in the Sivara Spa are typical of hotel spas and are hence slightly on the high side. If you are a guest of the hotel, make sure you pick up a discount voucher at the hotel concierge which will entitle you to a 10% discount and a free floral foot bath.

Location of Spa: Amari Watergate Hotel, 847 Petchburi Road Bangkok 10400

Size of Spa: Three couple treatment rooms, five single rooms

Facilities: Private Shower and jacuzzi in couple's room

Friendliness: Extremely polite receptionist and massage therapists

Pricing: Ranges from US$60 to US$120 for massage only. Between US$115 to US$220 for spa packages.