travel insurance policies and

UK Travel and Holiday Insurance in an Instant UK instant online travel and holiday insurance cover All required policy cover details and emergency telephone numbers will be on the insurance documents you receive online and via email. Read about our various travel insurance policies and find the right one for you and your family Find a complete index to our travel insurance products by clicking on the bold text above. With the information on these pages, you can make better use of our comparison and booking software, and obtain the right cover . . . at the right price. We believe travel insurance should be affordable, solid, and effective. So, these pages offer the cheapest good quality insurance in the UK. Please feel free to click on the link above and read for yourself. If you are already comfortable with the process of taking travel insurance, then simply click on one of the quotation buttons in the blue panels at the top of this page. Contacting your Emergency Services Provider? Please Note : If you bought one of our policies prior to 1st January 2004 then your emergency contact details are as follows. For emergency contact details for policies purchased after this date then click here 24 HOURS MEDICAL EMERGENCY SERVICE OPERATED BY MEDI-CALL LIMITED We try to make any claims procedures as easy as possible, but by reading a few of the rules below you can make any possible holiday claim you may need to make a lot easier. IMPORTANT - please quote Essential Travel and Scheme Number shown on the first page of your Certificate and Your Certificate Schedule Number. Medi-Call Limited provides immediate help in the event of Your illness or injury arising outside the UK (United Kingdom) - they provide 24 hour multi-lingual emergency service 365 days a year and can be contacted by telephone, telex or fax. UK Insurance Emergency Telephone Numbers Should a serious medical problem arise You must contact Medi-Call Limited immediately. (+44) 1273 321976 Fax: UK (+44) 1273 731261 Responsibility You are responsible in advising Your attending doctor to seek prior approval for any treatment except in extreme circumstances where a request for prior approval would delay surgery in a life threatening situation or medical crisis. Failure to contact Medi-Call Ltd may limit the benefits payable, or in certain circumstances, insurance cover will not be provided. When You call upon the services of Medi-Call Ltd it is a condition of the service that First Assist shall solely be responsible for all decisions on the most suitable and reasonable solution to any medical problem. The service includes, where necessary: 1. Multi-lingual assistance with hospitals and doctors 2. Repatriation arrangements and necessary escorts by a medical attendant 3. Travel arrangements for other members of Your party or next-of-kin 4. On arrival in the United Kingdom, an ambulance service to hospital or home. Please note: We are not responsible for the availability, quality or results of any medical treatment received by You. Ho To Make a Travel Insurance Claim from policies bought BEFORE 1st January 2004 All claims other than Medical Emergency Assistance must be made direct to: CLAIMS SETTLEMENT AGENCIES 308-314 LONDON ROAD HADLEIGH ESSEX SS7 2DD Telephone 01702 553443 Fax 01702 553231 They will send You a travel insurance claim form which You will need to complete and return to them with Your Certificate Schedule and any other documents requested. All Claims must be submitted within 31 days. Claims Agency For all claims we use Claims Settlement Agencies Limited who have been settling claims since 1990 and is our preferred Loss Adjusters and also handles certain insurance claims for other insurers such as AXA. They are experienced in handling and maintaining large corporate accounts in particular Air Miles. They currently have 25 staff who are processing approximately 25,000 claims per year . Emergency contact details for policies bought after 1st January 2004 Emergency Medical Assistance. It is important that in the event that you need to contact the medical emergency you must quote Optimum and your policy number ET/AON (followed by your number) Travelsolve Assistance provides immediate help in the event of an insured persons illness or injury arising outside the United Kingdom, they provide 24 hour multi-lingual emergency service 365 days a year and can be contacted by telephone or fax. Emergency Numbers are : UK: +44 (0) 1733 457593 FAX: +44 (0) 1733 502293 When an insured person calls upon the services of Travelsolve Assistance it is condition of service that Travelsolve Assistance shall be responsible for all decisions on the most suitable and reasonable solution to any medical problem. The service includes, where necessary: 1. Multi-lingual assistance with hospitals and doctors. 2. Repatriation arrangements by escort by a medical attendant. 3. Travel arrangements for other members of your party or immediate relative. 4. On arrival in the United Kingdom, an ambulance service to hospital or home. NOTE: FAILURE TO CONTACT THE ASSISTANCE COMPANY MAY RESULT IN A CLAIM BEING INVALID. Making A Claim on policies bought ON or AFTER 1st January 2004 If you need to make a claim please obtain a claim form by telephoning or writing to our claims handlers. Please note that for your claim to be considered you must register this within 28 days of returning from you trip. When contacting the claims company please insure that you quote Optimum and your policy number that will start ET/AON (followed by your policy number) At Instant Holiday Insurance we use Claims International Limited ( CIL ) who are the market leaders and are the leading specialist in there field. They have a large portfolio which includes travel and medical related claims handling, policy administration services and fulfillment services, financial protection and credit card enhancement and other related claims handling products. From 1992, CIL has been a wholly owned subsidiary of the Lindsey Morden Group of companies and as such forms part of a global network of claims handling companies, including Cunningham Lindsey, the UK's largest loss Adjuster. CIL has managed and administered over 140,000 claims per annum and has strong working relationships with major Insurers and Intermediaries as well as Lloyds Underwriters and other insurance based clients. In the event if having to make a claim on your travel insurance policy please use the contact details below: Claims International Ltd 14th Floor Leon House 201-204 High Street Croydon CR9 1ER TEL: 0208 680 5142 FAX: 0208 760 0298 info@cilint.com Once you have contact the relevant department, please return your claims form, with your original policy documents, and please insure you have photocopies or any paper work that is requested from the claims company. Tips for Travellers Abroad. Always take out Travel Insurance well in advance of travelling. The travel insurance policy will cover you for any medical expenses that you incur should you be involved in an accident or become ill and require hospitalisation . Sometimes medical costs can be astronomic and without sufficient insurance cover you could end up in serious trouble. Apart from medical expenses the policy should also cover things like; legal expenses,cancellation & curtailment, loss of money, baggage, passport, etc. and personal liability. Make sure you are covered for any activity that you intend to undertake so that you and your equipment are covered while participating, e.g. skiing, scuba diving etc. Make sure you have a signed, valid passport (and visas, if required). Also, before you go, make sure you fill in the emergency contact information page of your passport! Read the Foreign & Commonwealth Office Information Sheets (and Public Announcements or Travel Warnings, if applicable) for the countries you plan to visit. Familiarise yourself with any local laws and customs of the countries to which you are travelling and avoid violating them whilst on holiday, deal only with authorised agents when you exchange money or purchase art or antiques. Remember, while you are in a foreign country on holiday, you are subject to its laws. Make two copies of your passport identification page. This will facilitate replacement if your passport is lost or stolen. Leave one copy at home with friends or relatives. Carry the other with you in a separate place from your passport. Leave a copy of your itinerary with family or friends at home so that you can be contacted in case of an emergency. Never leave your luggage unattended in public areas. Do not accept packages from strangers. If you plan to stay abroad for more than two months, upon arrival you should notify by phone or register in person with the British Embassy in the country you are travelling to. This will facilitate communication in case someone contacts the embassy looking for you. To avoid being a target of crime, try not to wear conspicuous clothing and expensive jewellery and do not carry excessive amounts of money or unnecessary credit cards. Finally, if you do get into trouble, contact the nearest British Embassy. Travel Insurance Policies for UK Residents in Brief With instant online quote and immediate certificate & policy cover. Travel insurance in an instance without any hassle and with totally safe online transaction from start to finish. Covering backpackers and student cover as well as wintersport for ski and snowboarders and more as well as multi & single trip policies, annual and seasonal cover for resort workers who maybe in a ski resort or holiday complex for a matter of months and need adequate cover but do not want to pay the normal travel and holiday insurance rates. Online Travel Insurance Booking Procuedures Explained in Brief You will be presented with an instant online holiday insurance quote for your selected insurance package which could be for Europe or Worldwide or ski wintersport cover for example and for your selected dates of travel. You can then either select that policy or choose an annual policy which is also returned, this is usually slightly more but obviously it covers you for a full year and not just a single trip. You then enter your details with your credit card details being last of all. You can print off your travel insurance policy and cover details online immediately. You will receive your insurance certificate also via email and regular post. site map | ski-insurance | travel sites | uk-travel-links | worldwide-travel-links | home UK Airport Hotels | Uk Airport Lounges | Short Breaks other insurance sites which also offer great rates uk income protection insurance | uk mortgage insurance | uk home insurance | uk online finance

Central America Travel Books

Mexico and Central America Travel Books - Mexico/Central America for Visitors Archives  You are here: About > Travel > Mexico / Central America for Visitors Travel Go Mexico Essentials Packing List for Travelers to Mexico Health Information Mexico / C. America Safety Considerations Travel Books Mexico and Central America Tourism Offices Mexico/ Central America Articles & Resources Mexico Mexico City Acapulco, Mexico Cancun Yucatan Baja Los Cabos Puerto Vallarta Other Places Photos of Mexico Belize, Central America Costa Rica El Salvador Guatemala Honduras Nicaragua Panama Forums Help FREE Newsletter Sign Up Now for the Mexico / Central America for Visitors newsletter! See Online Courses   Search Mexico / Central America for Visitors October 15, 2003 Mexico/Central America for Visitors Blog Archives « October 06, 2003 | Main | October 16, 2003 » Mexico and Central America Travel Books There are many travel guidebooks devoted to Mexico and to Central America. Here is my recommended list of 6 top travel books which should prove to be valuable aids for many visitors to this area of the world. 09:08 AM # Display Latest Headlines Read Archives Advertisement Most Popular Mexican Music La Paz, Mexico Quinceanera Packing List Tijuana, Mexico What's Hot Buying Real Estate in Mexico Puerto Vallarta Cozumel, Mexico Whale Watching Fishing In Mexico Related Topics California for Visitors South America for Visitors Caribbean for Visitors Mexican Cuisine        Topic Index | Email to a Friend Our Story | Be a Guide | Advertising Info | Work at About | Site Map | Icons | Help User Agreement | Ethics Policy | Patent Info. | Privacy Policy | Kids' Privacy Policy ©2005 About, Inc., A part of the New York Times Company . All rights reserved. Around About New Video iPod - Review POLL: Must-Have Gadgets VIDEO: Portable Gaming VIDEO: Choosing a TV Hugh Hefner's Life What's Hot Buying Real Estate in Mexico Puerto Vallarta Cozumel, Mexico Whale Watching Fishing In Mexico Headlines Top 6 Travel Books for Mexico and Central America There are many travel guidebooks devoted to Mexico and to... Health Information for Visitors to Mexico and Central America This article provides a summary of the more important health... Safety Considerations for Travelers to Mexico and Central America Travel to Mexico and Central America is not significantly less... Acapulco, Mexico Once a favorite destination of honeymooners, celebrities and the...

Argentina Travel

Travel: Argentina Travel Notes -- Argentina News Round The World Flights - Free TravelNotes e-mail Travel Notes : Latin America : Argentina @ Travel Notes : Argentina News -- Booking Engine Vacation Finder Latin America @ Travel Notes Argentina Belize Bolivia Brazil Caribbean Chile Colombia Costa Rica Ecuador El Salvador Falklands Fr. Guiana Guatemala Guyana Honduras Mexico Nicaragua Panama Paraguay Peru Sth. Georgia Suriname Uruguay Venezuela News From Argentina Argentina's international newspaper is the Buenos Aires Herald and there are a large selection of Spanish language papers in Argentina. Argentina News Links : Moreover.com's links to news stories relating to Argentina. Buenos Aires Herald : Reporting on Argentina as it is. Updated every day, at 3pm Argentina time. Spanish Language Papers : A whole collection of Spanish papers in Argentina; too many to review here. Newspapers of the World : Directory of newspapers and news sources from around the world. Enter Argentina : Getting to Argentina, and other information for tourists. SightseeingTours, Events and Attractions . Miscellaneous -- Online Reservations Maps & Travel Books : Stanfords is the UK's leading specialist retailer of maps and travel books. 1800-Hostels.com : Budget Accommodation in Latin America. Latin American Directory : Latin America links sorted by country and category. Send @ Postcard Unique images of travel destinations by Travel Notes. Travel Industry : Add Your Tours Add Your Property Latin American Spanish Phrasebook : Most guidebooks have a few words to help you get by but real travellers will need this companion. Learn Spanish . Mailing List Keep up with the latest news @ Travel Notes. Meta-Travel Forums : If you have a question, want to hang out with other travellers, tourists or the natives.... then join Travelnotes in the Meta-Travel forums and share in the global experience. Countries Weather Flights Cars Lodging Specials Contact Meta Flight Tickets : Save money on Round The World flight tickets. Travel News : Get the inside scoop with the latest travel features and tips. Past Articles . Argentina Cities Argentina Culture Argentina Hotels Argentina News Argentina Regions Argentina Skiing Argentina Tourism Argentina Tours Bariloche Buenos Aires Business Corner LearningSpanish Patagonia Local Currency Convert your currency into Argentine pesos. Travel Directory : Latin America : Argentina @ Travel Notes : Argentina News -- Add URL Search Travel Notes | Travel Notes | Search Resources | Submit Your Travel Site | Meta-Travel Search | | 1800-Countries | 1800-Casinos | 1800-Cruises | 1800-Olympics | 1800-Worldcup | | Airlines | Airports | 1800-Fly | 1800-Lodging | 1800-RentalCars | Vacation Rentals | | Legal Notice | Travel Articles | Magun's Compass | Advertisers | Online Reservations | The URL for this page is: http://www.travelnotes.org/LatinAmerica/Argentina/argentina_news.htm

Asia Travel || Thailand

BANGKOK TRAVEL INFORMATION - ASIA TRAVEL Bangkok Travel Information Click here to reserve your hotels in Bangkok and other cities in Thailand Sky Train The capital with the longest name ........ "Krungthepmahanakhon Amornrattanakosin Mahintharayutthaya Mahadilokphop Noppharat Ratchathaniburirom Udomratchaniwetmahasathan Amonphiman Awatansathit Sakkathattiyawitsanukamprasit" Bangkok is the Orient's most cosmopolitan city and has attractions to stimulate even the most jaded travellers. Created as the Thai capital in 1782 by the first monarch of the present Chakri dynasty, Bangkok is a national treasure house and Thailand's spiritual, cultural, political, commercial, educational and diplomatic centre. Bangkok, Thailand's major gateway, casts an irresistible spell of enchantment. To the Thais it is Krung Thep , "City of Angels", and you'll find it truly a magic place, one that captivates the imagination. More than anywhere else in the country, Bangkok expresses Thailand's uncanny ability to blend the old with the new. This lends a thrilling sense of discovery to one's sightseeing and adds an element of surprise when exploring what is the Orient's most fabled city. Joyfully exuberant, Bangkok embraces modern development and presents an initial picture of thrusting office towers; of world-class hotels offering deluxe comforts; of glittering shopping plazas packed with treasures of the East such as silks and gemstones; of restaurants serving Thailand's acclaimed spicy specialities and virtually every other national cuisine worthy of the name; of neon-lit entertainment spots where the fare ranges from classical dance to laser disco. Incredibly amidst this sybaritic world Bangkok manages to preserve its cultural heritage to an amazing degree. In the rich splendour of the Grand Palace, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, the Temple of the Dawn and other historic shrines, you see images of medieval Oriental wonder, the very stuff of Eastern fairytales. The influence of the past is not limited to major monuments and it continues to colour daily life. Files of saffron-robed monks making their early morning alms round, for example, present a scene unaltered in essentials by the passing of time. Today's backdrop of highrise buildings only adds wonder to this and other enduring sights from which the city continues to draw definition. Ultimately it is from the people that Bangkok derives its unique flavour. Fun-loving and easy going, they possess a rare tolerance which imbues the city with a real sense of freedom. It may appear at times hectic, yet what finally comes across is Bangkok's good natured acceptance of life with all its idiosyncrasies. Thailand's "City of Angels" is, indeed, a magic place where possibilities are limited only by the imagination. You'll marvel at past glories, delight in present opportunities and love every minute of it. Top No other city in Asia rivals Bangkok for thrilling night life, and evening entertainment is both plentiful and inexpensive. Most famous are the neon-lit bar districts which are both more fun and much safer than their counterparts in other cities around the world. However, there is much more to Bangkok by night than just the glitter of pubs and bars. Especially popular are the cultural shows staged by various Thai restaurants. Here you'll find the perfect introduction to Thailand's highly stylized classical dance, accompanied by music played on traditional instruments. Dressed in gorgeous costumes, dancers perform the slow, graceful movements that make up the intricate language of classical Thai dance drama. Visually stunning, these shows are a must. Also not to be missed is Muai Thai, a style of boxing unique to Thailand in which combatants use elbows, knees and bare feet as well as gloved fists. A martial art before it was a sport, Muai Thai has a long tradition and is still surrounded by much ritual.The fights are commonly fierce and furious, though the best boxers display remarkable skills, as well as great fitness, and a good contest is decided by application of technique rather than brute force. Often as entertaining as the action in the ring is the reaction of the spectators who yell and shout encouragement to the boxers as the excitement mounts. There are two boxing stadiums in Bangkok and between them they offer professional bouts virtually every night of the week. For either pre dinner aperitifs or late evening drinks, Bangkok boasts many sophisticated bars and cocktail lounges, some of the best being located in the top hotels. Here you can relax in pleasant surroundings and enjoy live musical entertainment by the best local and regional entertainers. If your looking for something a little more highbrow, you will not be disappointed. Although Bangkok does not have regular offerings of plays, operas or concerts, performances are nonetheless frequently staged by both local and overseas artists and companies. The Thailand Cultural Centre is the main venue, though leading hotels quite often host visiting artists and small theatre groups . If it's action that you are looking for, Bangkok abounds with discos. Some are small an intimate others are enormous and crowded, but all spin the latest dance music using the most modern sound systems, laser lights, videos and all the other hi-tech equipment that makes today's disco less of a place an more of an event. The inveterate shopper may spend a happy evening strolling the streets in main entertainment areas browsing around the ranks of kerbside stalls which offer host of good buys. Alternatively, if you are tired after a busy day sightseeing, you can go to the cinema or relax in your hotel room and watch video. Whatever your preferences, you'll discover Bangkok makes sure there's never a dull moment. Attractions and Places of Interest With many interesting attractions and places of interest in and around Bangkok, visitors can have a variety of " do-it-yourself " day trips to keep your holidays fun-filled and enjoyable. OLD TOWN - CHINATOWN In the old Bangkok town are located the Grand Palace, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, two universities and several ministries. It is from this side of the Chao Phraya River that one takes a boat to visit the Temple of Dawn and the floating market Chinatown is situated to the southeast of the old town . The gold shop street and the Temple of the Gold Buddha are located here. PINKLAO A bridge was built across the Chao Phraya River near the Grand Palace in 1973. It was named Pin Klao in memory of the last but one deputy king, whose palace was nearby. Now the area on the western side of the river has become one of the most newly developed areas in Bangkok with several department stores, many restaurants and nightlife establishments. RATCHADAPHISEK Ratchadaphisek is the name of the new sections of the inner ring road of Bangkok but is usually used to refer to the short section between the Lat Phrao intersection and the Rama IX Road intersection. This section is being developed into a new commercial district containing several big department stores, office buildings, hotels and a large number of restaurants, A little way off the road is Thailand Cultural Centre, where shows and exhibitions are held from time to time. RAMKHAMHAENG When Ramkhamhaeng University was founded on Bangkok's eastern outskirts as Thailand's first open university in 1970, the area was rather remote and underdeveloped. However, as the university's yearly enrolments increased rapidly to 100,000, the area soon became a new satellite city of Bangkok with ever-increasing shop-houses, apartment buildings, restaurants, cinema houses, department stores, hotels and places of entertainment. SIAM -RATCHADAMRI This is one of the biggest and busiest shopping districts in Bangkok. A huge commercial complex, including a 62-storey World Trade Centre opposite Ratchadamri Arcade, is partly completed. Located in the area are several large department stores, shopping arcades, cinema theatres, and countless smaller shops. So you can satisfy all your needs if you stay in one of over a dozen first-class hotels in the area. The Pratunam Market next to the Indra Arcade, is worth visiting if you want to broaden your field of vision. It is also the market of garments for export. SUKHUMWIT-NEW PHETBURI In the section from the Soi Nana crossroads to Soi Sukhumwit 21 (Asok Intersection), there are many shops catering to foreign tourists, where jewellery, leather goods, ready-made garments and souvenirs are sold and tailoring, car rent and other service are offered. Inside the lanes (soi) off the road, there are numerous fashionable residences, hotels, apartment houses, and some really good restaurants. To the north of Sukhumwit Road is the extension of Phetburi Road which does not have many pedestrians in the daytime. After dark, however, the long street is brightened with colourful neon signs and enlivened by people going out to enjoy themselves in dozens of entertainment Places along the street. SILOM-SURAWONG This district has transformed in half a century from paddy fields into the most important business and financial centre of Bangkok . Today, from end to end, these two parallel streets are full of big blocks of multistory buildings, in which are banks, finance firms, insurance companies, export-import houses, hotels, airlines offices, restaurants, shopping arcades, department stores, and entertainment establishments. A small area in this district known as Patpong, is famous for various kinds of entertainment--wine, beer, music, dancing, etc. Bang Lamphu A shopping area once frequented solely by local people has become a popular place for tourists. This area offers various inexpensive items, especially ready made clothes, handbags, men's and lady's shoes, cosmetics and curios. Bargaining is recommended. Weekend Market at Chatuchak Park This large open public ground covers approximately 35 acres opposite the Northern Bus Station on Phahonyothin Road. Known as Suan Chatuchak, it hosts the popular Weekend Market where people buy and sell a thousand local products. Items range from exotic fresh fruits, vegetables, handicrafts, dress materials, clothing shoes, toys, domestic utensils and pets. There is a particularly fine section for plants. Weekend Market is open on Saturdays and Sundays from7.00 a.m. - p.m. 6.00 Top The Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaeo ( click for postcard ) This city landmark should be the first place on any visitor's itinerary. It is a huge compound on Na Phra Lan Road near Pramane Ground is surrounded by high white walls and occupies an area of about a square mile. The palace, begun in 1782, consists of several buildings with highly decorated architectural details. The Royal chapel, Wat Phra Kaeo, which is in the same compound, houses the Emerald Buddha, the most sacred Buddha image in Thailand. Photography inside the building housing the Emerald Buddha is forbidden. The complex is open daily from 8.30 a.m.- 3.30 p.m. Admission fee is 125 baht(including tickets to The Coin Pavillion & Phra Thi Nang Vimanmek & Abhisek Dusit Throne Hall). Proper dress is essential. Phra Thi Nang Vimanmek and Abhisek Dusit Throne Hall Vimanmek Palace is located behind Bangkok's National Assembly and is the world's largest building made entirely of golden teak . The three storey wooden palace has 81 rooms, halls and ante-rooms, excluding and verandahs. Near the entrance to Vimanmek Palace is the Royal Carriage Museum where 13 royal horse-drawn carriages once used during the reign of King Rama V are collected. The collection is so splendid and regarded to be of great historical value. Abhisek Dusit Throne Hall (The Support Museum), a one storey teak building built in the reign of King V, is situated on the east wing of Vimanmek Throne Hall. Abhisek Dusit Throne Hall is now Thailand's first handicraft museum where Her Majesty The Queen collects handicraft masterpieces created by members of Support Foundation . In the museum, visitors find such handicrafts as niellowares Thai silk with various unique designs,"Lipao"basketry likebeautiful trays, handbags studded with jewels in different designs such as green beetle. The compound is open daily from 9.00 a.m.- 4.00 p.m. Admission fee is Baht 50 per person. Free guide available (Tel. 2818166, 2816880, 2811569, 2811518, 2805926) The National Museum Tel: 2241333, 2241396 Within walking distance of the Grand Palace, across the Pramane Ground, is one of the largest and most comprehensive museums in Southeast Asia. The National Museum over one thousand artifacts ranging from neolithic times to the present Bangkok period. The complex, also begun m in 1782, consists of several old hut beautiful buildings of colourful Thai architectural design. The museum is open every day, except Mondays, Tuesdays and public holidays from 9.00 a.m.- 4.00 p.m. Admission fee is Baht 20. The National Arts Gallery This is on Chao Fa Road opposite the National Theatre. It exhibits traditional and contemporary works of art by Thai artists. The gallery is open to the public everyday except Mondays Tuesdays and public holidays from 9.00 a.m.- 4.00 p.m. The telephone number is 2812224, 2822639 . Admission fee is Baht 10. The National Theatre Thailand's National Theatre is on Na Phra Lan Road next to The National Museum. Thai Classical dramas and other types of international arts are periodically staged here. Currentprogrammes can he checked at the theatre (Tel. 2241342) on weekdays between 8.30 a.m. and4.30 p.m. Special exhibition shows of Thai classical dancing and music are held on the lastFriday and Saturday of each month Please contact the theatre for details. Sanam Luang This huge public ground in front of the Grand Palace used to be the place where the Weekend Market now moved to Suan Chatuchak on Phahonyothin Road was held. Special activities or ceremonies such as the Royal Ploughing Ceremony in May and the New Year Festival also take place here. At the northern part of Sanam Luang opposite the RoyalHotel is a small statue placed in small white pavillion. The Goddess of the Earth was built during King Chulalongkorn's reign (1868-1910)t o provide public drinking water. The City Pillar Shrine Located at the southeast corner of Sanam Luang this graceful temple-like Structure houses "Lak Muang" a stone pillar placed there by King Rama I, the first monarch of the present Chakri dynasty, as the foundation stone for his new capital city of Bangkok. Lak Muangis believed by many people to have the power of granting wishes. Top Wat Pho ( click for postcard ) (Tel :2220933) This world famous temple is located right next to the Grand Palace on the south side. It is one of Bangkok's oldest and largest temples. Wat Pho was built by King Rama I nearly 200 years ago and houses the gigantic gold-plated Reclining Buddha. This unique image is 46 metres in length and 15 metres high with beautifully inlaid mother-of pearl soles . Wat Pho is also regarded as the first centre of public education and is sometimes called "Thailand's FirstUniversity". The building housing the Reclining Buddha is open daily from 8.00 a.m.- 5.00 p.m. Admission fee is Baht 20. Wat Arun (Temple of the Dawn) click for postcard Located on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River Wat Arun can he reached either by Arun Amarin Road or by crossing the river hy boat from Tha Tien Pier near Wat Pho. The mostattractive structure in this temple is the 79 metre-high pagoda or "Phra Prang". Wat Arun was restored during the brief Thonhuri period to he the Royal Chapel of King Taksin. Despite its name "Temple of the Dawn" the most beautiful view of it is from the Bangkok side of the river at sunset. Admission fee is Baht 10. Wat Traimit (Temple of the Golden Buddha) At the end of Yaowarat Road near Bangkok's Hualamphong Railway Station is a temple situated on Traimit Road. This temple is known for its famous Golden Buddha constructed during the Sukhothai period. The image of solid gold is three meters high and weighs five and a half tons. this image is open to the from 9.00 a.m.- 5.00 p.m.Originally, this golden buddha image was completely covered with plaster to conceal it from the enemy then invading Thailand and was installed as the principal Buddha image in the main temple building of Choti-naram Temple or Wat Phrayakrai, Yannawa District, Bangkok in the third reign of the Chakkri Dynasty in the Ratanakosin era. When Chotanaram Temple was deserted in about 1931, the East Asiatic Company, with official pernission, extended its operations into the land area of the deserted temple. When the building was completed and while preparations were being made to move this Golden Buddha image to the building, the covering plaster was partly broken. Only then did the people realize that it was a golden Buddha image. Thus, it has been treasured for its historical, artistic and cultural values to this day. Part of the covering plaster is also on display inside the temple building. Wat Benchamabophit (The Marble Temple) Tel :2812501 The Marble Temple is on Si Ayutthaya Road near Chitralada Palace. The temple is well-known because its main building was constructed during the reign of King Rama V.The best time to visit this temple is early in the morning when Buddhist monks are chanting inside the chapel. The interior of the main building is magnificently decorated with cross beams of lacquer and gold. A large collection of Bronze Buddhas lines the walls of the spacious inner courtyard. The main building is open to visitors until 5.00 p.m. There is an admission charge of Baht 10. Wat Suthat (The Giant Swing) Located on Bamrung Muang Road this temple took 27 years to build. It is famous for the excellent murals in the main building from the reign of King Rama III (1824-1851). The viharn should be seen for its collection of gilded Buddha images. The temple complex is open daily from 9.00 a.m.- 5.00 p.m. In front of the temple is the famous Giant Swing. Many shops surrounding Wat Suthat stock a very comprehensive range of Buddhist ecclesiastic supplies. Wat Sa Ket (The Golden Mount) ( click for postcard ) Wat Sa Ket or the Golden Mount was begun during the reign of King Rama I(1782-1800). The golden chedi houses relics of Lord Buddha and affords visitors a panoramic view of Bangkok. Wat Indravihan Located in Bangkhunphrom area on Wisutkrasat Road Wat Indravihan is well-known for a huge standing Buddha image. This image of "Buddhasiariyametriya" is 32 metres tall(108.99 feet) and 10 metres and 24 inches wide (40.09 feet). This Buddhist monument was built during the reign of King Rama IV. The topknot of the Buddha image contains a relic of Lord Buddha brought from Sri Lanka. The temple is open to the public every day. There is no admission fee. Wat Thammamongkhon Located on Sukhumvit Soi 101 this is the highest pagoda in Bangkok. The pagoda 94.78 high, has 14 storey and an elevator to enable visitors, particularly elderly people, to go to the top of the building. Relics and a hair of the Lord Buddha, kept in the pagoda, were presented by the Supreme Patriach of Bangladesh. Wat Ratchanatdaram Located on Thanon Mahachai. This royal temple was built in the reign of King Rama III in 1846. Loha Prasat (Metal Palace) one of its tourist attractions standing on its 36 meters high with 37 surrounding spires is the only one of its kind left in the world. Situated in the nearby area are a royal pavilion for a guest welcome and the memorial statue of King Rama III. Wat Bowonniwet The building is located on Phra Sumen Road, in Banglumphu area. Built in 1829, it is the shrine-hall of Phra Phutthachinasri which was molded in about 1357. Wat Bowon niwet is one of the most important temples of Bangkok whose one-time chief abbot was King Rama IV before he ascended the throne. Other Chakri Kings who had resided here during their monkhood include King Rama Vl and King Rama Vll as well as His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej. Wat Mahathat (Temple of the Great Relic) This is a very old temple on Na Phrathat Road between Silpakom University and Thammasat University. The back of the temple faces the Pramane Ground or Sanam Luang. Wat Mahathatwas built during the reign of King Rama I and houses Mahachulalongkorn Buddhist University one of the two highest seats of Buddhist learning in the country. Those interested in Buddhistmeditation should visit Section 5 which is the head-quarters of Wipassana (insight) meditation inThailand. Information and practice in English can usually arranged according to availability of suitable monks. The temple complex is open from 9.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. On Buddhist holy days there is a thriving open air market in the grounds and a comprehensive selection of traditional Thai medicines usually in plant or root form for sale. Top The Shed of the Royal Barges ( click for postcard ) (Tel: 4240004) This shed where several royal barges are displayed is located on Khlong Bangkok Noi off the Chao Phraya River not far from Phra Pin Klao Bridge. These barges were used on Royal andgovernment occasions and formerly served war vessels. The most beautiful and well-known barge is "Suphanahong" used by the King only when he made his Royal river procession for the Kathin ceremony a Buddhist tradition of offering robes to monks usually during October or November. The Royal barges proceeded during the Rattanakosin Bicentennial celebrations. The unique design and decorative details of each barge should he of great interest to allvisitors. The shed is open to the public every day from 8.30 a.m.- 4.30 p.m. There is an admission fee of 10 baht. Jim Thompson's Thai House (Tel: 2150122) This remarkable Thai-style house was the work of Mr. Jim Thompson an American who came to Thailand at the end of the Second World War and revived the Thai Silk industry. His laterdisappearance in the Malaysian jungles remains a mystery to this day. The house now a museum is at the end of Soi Kasemsan 2 opposite the National Stadium on Rama I Road. On permanent display are Mr.Thompson's collection of Asian artifacts such as blue-while China ware Cambodian stone figures benjarong (a multi-couloured porcelain made in China) wooden Burmese statues and many other fabulous antiques. Jim Thompson's House is open from Monday to Saturday inclusive from 9.00 a.m.- 4.30 p.m. Admission costs Baht 100. Volunteer guides explain the collection to visitors. Suan Pakkad Palace (Tel: 2454934) On Si Ayutthaya Road not far from the intersection of Phaya Thai Road used to be the residence of princess ChumShol of Nagara Svarga one of Thailand's leading art collector. There is a complex of five traditional Thai Houses overtooking a beautifully kept garden.They house a large collection of Asian art and antiques. One building exhibits a collection of seashells mineral crystal and painted pottery from Ban Chiang . Suan Pakkad Palace is open everyday except Sunday from 9.00 a.m.- 4.00 p.m. There is an admission fee of Baht 80. Pasteur Institute (Snake Farm) This interesting spot is located at the corner of Henri Dunant Road and Rama IV Road west of Chulalongkorn Hospital. It is a section of the Thai Red Cross where one can have cholera smallpox and typhoid inoculations as well as rabies treatment. The institute hasbecome a popular tourist attraction because of its large collection of live poisonous snakes. The Snake Farm is open to the public every day between 8.30 a.m. and 4.00 p.m. on weekdays and 8.30 a.m.- 12.00 p.m. on public holidays. The extraction of venom from the snakes is demonstrated daily at 10.30 a.m. and 2.00 p.m. on weekdays and at 10.30 a.m. onpublic holidays. Admission fee is 70 baht. For further details please call 2520161-4 Labour Museum Located near Makkasan Railway Station Nikhom-Makkasan Road Phayathai . Here labour history of Thailand from the past to present is put on exhibition. The museum is open daily with no admission fee during 10.00 a.m.- 5.00 p.m. except for Mondays Tuesdays and national holidays. Museum The museum is on 1st floor of the Metropolitan Postal Bureau (North) behind Sam Sen Ni Post Office. Open daily from Tuesday to Sunday during 9.00 a.m.- 4.00 p.m. No admission fee. Thai and foreign stamps of the old ages are on display. The collections of postbooks in both Thai and foreign languages are available at the library. Stamps and accessories for stamp collection are on sale . For more information please contact tel.271-2439 573-0099 ext. 2637. Ban Kamthieng (Tel: 2583491, 2583444, 2602830-32) Ban Kamthieng is an old house originally constructed in Chiang Mai more than 200 years ago and donated to the Siam society by its owners and reconstructed in Bangkok. A very large variety of Thai flora and fauna can be seen in the garden of the house, which is at 131 Soi (Soi 21) Sukhumvit Road. Also on display are items used daily by Thai farmers and fishermen. It is open daily from 9.00 a.m.- 5.00 p.m. An admission fee of Baht 50 is charged to help maintain the property and grounds. Museum of Imaging The first camera and photograph museum to be established in Thailand and Asia is located at the same building as the Department of Photographic Science and Printing Technology. Faculty of Science Chulalongkorn University. Historic photograph sand imaging equipment as well as its technological evolution are collected and displayed in the form of camera and imaging technology museum. Modern photographic arts and techniques as well as advancedtechnology of the dimensional photographs, electronic photography, and printing technology are also exhibited. The museum is open on Saturday between 10.00 a.m.- 4.00 p.m. Admission fee is Baht 100 each. It is also open on weekdays for group visitors making advance contact. Tel. 2511913, 2541748 Hall of Railways Heritage It is located to the North of Chatuchak Park near a multipurpose parking lot, is where railway information is collected for publicity. Steam engines, train models, and miniature trains ofvarious sizes are exhibited there along with photographs and paintings depicting development of world railway systems and several other related objects. The Hall of Railways Heritage is open every Sunday between 5.00-12.00 a.m. Admission is free. For moreinformation please contact the Thai Rail Fan Club. Tel. 2432037-9 Prasart Museum It is located at 9 Soi Krungtepkreetha 4, Si Nakharin Road, Phra Khanong, houses a vast collection of artifacts from pre-historic through Rattanakosin periods. Various styles ofarchitecture, for example, a baroque building, a smaller version of the Red Palace in Bangkok National Museum, and an imitation of Ho Phra of Wat Yai Suwannaram, are scattered within the museum complex. Prasart Museum is open on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays during 10.00 a.m.- 3.00 p.m. Admission fee is Baht 300 each (snack and beverage included). It is also open on weekdays for group visitors. Please make advance contact at Tel. 3793601, 3793607, 2539772 Top Bangkok Planetarium & Scientific Museum The scientific museum situated next to the Eastern Bus Terminal(Ekamai) is an exhibition center on scientific knowledge and astronomy. Open daily, except Monday and national holidays, from 9.00 a.m.- 4.00 p.m. Admission fee is Baht 10. At the planetarium, daily performances on the solar system are presented for the public from Tuesday to Sunday. Open from 8.30 8.30 a.m. p.m. Admission fee is 10 baht. For furtherinformation, please contact tel. 3925952, 3902301. Narayanaphand (Tel: 2524670-9, 2554328-9) This is handicraft centre, under government supervision, located on Ratchadamri Rd . Visitors may inspect and buy selections of handicrafts from all parts of the country. Items available include Thai silk, ceramics, wood carvings, lacquer ware, bronze objects andKhon masks. The store is open daily from 10.00 a.m. until 8.00 p.m. Bangkok Dolls & Museum (Tel: 2453008) All kinds of Thai dolls are made in this factory which is on Soi Ratchataphan (Soi Mo Leng) off Ratchaprarop Road, in the Pratunam area. It is open to visitors, who may inspect and buy dolls,every day except Sundays and public holidays from 8.00 a.m.- 5.00 p.m. Dusit Zoo (Tel: 2812000, 2811039) Located near Vimanmek Palace, Dusit Zoo is opened to the public everyday from 8.00 a.m. - 6.00 p.m. Tropical animals to be found include great grey kangaroos, Sumatran rhinoceros, Siamese crocodiles, gaurs, lesser mouse deer, American bisons, etc. Admissionfee is Baht 20. Siam Water Park Siam Water Park is merely a 30-minute drive from the Lat Phrao flyover, and is located in suburban Amphoe Minburi. The park features an extensive man-made sea with artificial surf, whirlpools, fountains and fountains and waterfalls, and towering water slides amidcarefully landscaped gardens. Satellite attractions include children's playgrounds, aviaries, an open zoo and botanical gardens. The complex is open daily from 10.00 a.m. to 6.00 p.m. (weekdays) and 9.00 a.m. to 07.00 p.m. (weekends). Admission fee is 200 baht for adults and 150 baht for children. Bus service: No. 26 & 27 from Victory Monument. (Tel: 51700759) Safari World It is located at 99 Ramindra 1, Min Buri, covers an area of some 430 rai and is divided into 2 parts. The first, the Safari Park, houses a large variety of animals like zebra, deers, giraffe, birds, tigers, lion, bears, etc.in natural habitat. Visitors can drive their own cars or have a good look from one of the Safari World's air-conditioned coaches . The second, the Marine Park, exhibits marine and some rare animals. Visitors can enjoy performances by trained animals like dolphins, birds, seals, and monkeys Restaurants and game shops are also scattered within the area and tram service is provided for those wishing to have a look around. Safari World is open daily between 9.00 a.m. Admission fee is 400 baht for adults and 300 baht for children. For more information please call 5181000-19 Bus services: No. 26 from Victory Monument goes to Minburi, from where a mini-bus service serves Safari World. Magicland A large scale amusement park is located on Phaholyotin Road on the way to Domuang Airport. Within its beautifully decorated area, there are linked paths, pools, legendary castles and more than 30 funny toys. Opening time is from 10.00 a.m.- 5.00 p.m. on weekdays and 9.30 a.m.7.00 p.m. on weekends. Admission fee costs 100 baht per person. The price plus service charges is 200 baht a person. For more details please contact Tel. 5131731-8. 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