CrazyExpat

PHNOM PENH, Feb. 10 (Xinhua) -- Google wrote to Cambodian government and said the company is going to review a map of the 11th built century temple of Preah Vihear, where the temple' s annex is also claimed by Thailand. The letter, which was seen on Wednesday, said "we are carefully reviewing the Government of Cambodia's objection regarding the depiction of Cambodian borders in Google Earth, and we plan to respond to your letter more fully in the very near future." Google, however, said in the letter that Google Earth combines satellite imagery, borders and place name data from a variety of public and private third party providers. "Our data in every case has limited resolution. When we combine satellite imagery from one provider with border data from another, this can lead to visible inaccuracies," said the Google' s letter signed by Ross LaJeune, head of the firm's public policy and government affairs for Asia Pacific. The letter also said that Google, who is always interested in improving the mapping data quality, recommended Cambodia to express her concerns directly to Tele Atlas who provided the Cambodia-Thailand border data. "This will enable any changes to be reflected not only in Google Earth but in all products using data from that provider (Tele Atlas)," said the letter. Cambodian government also sent a letter to Tele Atlas for correction, but was not immediately know if Tele Atlas has made any responses. On February 5, Cambodia wrote to Google in which said of the map that "a frontier line between Cambodia and Thailand in the section of the Temple of Preah Vihear has been very wrongly marked which is radically misleading and totally misguiding." And Cambodian government asked Google to withdraw the map. The 900-year-old Khmer temple was listed by UNESCO as Cambodia' s World Heritage Site in 2008. The UN court of International Court of Justice (ICJ) in 1962 in which the court ruled out that the Temple of Preah Vihear is situated in the territory under the sovereignty of Cambodia.

I read about this. I spent many a days when I was a kid playing Frisbee! I can't imagine many not doing the same.

Six years ago, a prominent human-rights lawyer disappeared in Thailand. Despite government promises to resolve the case, nothing is known about his whereabouts. Human-rights groups say the case is a test of Thailand's performance on human rights. In February 2004, human-rights lawyer Somchai Neelapaichit spoke of his concerns over police injustice and brutality in southern Thailand. Somchai accused members of the Thai military of involvement in a raid on an army depot in early 2004. He says five Muslim men who were arrested and tortured in jail were innocent. That was to be his final public address. Less than three weeks later, Somchai was abducted from the streets of Bangkok, bundled into a car and driven away. He has not been seen since, and his family and fellow activists suspect he is dead. Five police officers were charged with relatively minor offenses in connection with the abduction. One was convicted of assault and sentenced to three years in prison. The others were acquitted. Somchai Homla-or also is a Thai human-rights lawyer, and is not related to the missing man. But he says the disappearance is directly linked to accusations about the torture of the five Muslims, all of whom were cleared of any wrongdoing. "According to the information we believe that Somchai was enforced disappeared [kidnapped] because he raised [torture] in the court room. We believe some policemen who participated in that torturing might be afraid of being investigated and being prosecuted," he said. "It is one of the reasons why some policemen committed crimes against Mr. Somchai." The disappearance came as the Thai government was cracking down on sectarian violence in southern Thailand. The region is home to much of the country's Muslim minority. The missing lawyer also was a Muslim and was known for challenging the government on its conduct in the south and taking cases of alleged police and military abuse. Last year, Human Rights Watch reported five Thai prime ministers have acknowledged that police officers had a role in Somchai's abduction. But the ultimate perpetrators have never been brought to justice. The Human Rights Watch representative in Thailand, Sunai Pasuk, says that primarily is because of police resistance. "We have very explicit examples of resistance within the bureaucracy, say for example, the disappearances of Somchai Neelapaichit and other Muslims from southern Thailand, [that] have received no cooperation from the Royal Thai Police," said Sunai. The Ministry of Justice's Department of Special Investigations has primary responsibility for the case. But the National Counter-Corruption Commission also has investigated the officers accused of torturing the five Muslims. Late last year, one of the torture victims disappeared, despite being in a witness-protection program. Hopes for progress in the investigation rose a year ago, shortly after Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva took office. He told Somchai's wife, in front of a room full of journalists, the investigation would move forward. "Yes, I will do my very best," he said. "I believe that there is a good chance that there will be progress in term terms of investigations." But Somchai's wife, Angkhana Neelapaichit, says she has been let down. "When Abhisit became prime minister and I went to have a meeting with him and I asked him about the Somchai case because I know he always [talks] about the many cases of human-rights abuses in Thailand, and Somchai is one of the cases," she said. "But one year has already passed and I did not see anything [that is] progress." Human Rights Watch's Sunai Pasuk says despite Mr. Ahbisit's good intentions, the bureaucracy has thwarted the investigation. "I believe Abhisit was genuine and sincere when he first raised his intentions to address issues about state-sponsored abuses and impunity. But the reality in Thailand is he could not translate his intention into policy," he said. "So we have a prime minister who is well meaning, but cannot administer the state mechanism." Ministry of Justice investigators recently agreed to widen the case and take into account circumstantial evidence, such as mobile phone records. But human-rights activists warn the agency must ensure its evidence is strong before going to court, or risk having the case collapse. Activists say Somchai Neelapaichit's case is a test of Thailand's commitment to human rights. But under Thai law, to convict anyone of murder or kidnapping in the case, the prosecutors must either find Somchai or his body. http://www1.voanews.com/english/news/Missing-Lawyer-Case-Tests-Thailand-Human-Rights-83795927.html

BANGKOK -- Police say suspected insurgents detonated a bomb as two truckloads of soldiers passed, wounding seven troops in Thailand's restive south. Police Lt. Heraman Jehdee says the attack happened Monday afternoon soon after the vehicles with 38 soldiers left a camp in Bo-ngo sub-district in Narathiwat province. He says police found a gas canister at the scene used to plant the mobile phone-triggered explosive device. More than 4,000 people have been killed in Thailand's three southern provinces since an Islamist insurgency flared in 2004. The provinces are the only Muslim-majority areas in the predominantly Buddhist country, and Muslims have long complained of discrimination by the central government. http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/02/08/AR2010020801031.html

Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen cancelled his planned visit to Ta Muen Thom temple in Surin province and returned home by helicopter on Monday, Foreign Minister Kasit Piromya's secretary Chavanond Intarakomalyasut said. Hun Sen decided not to visit Ta Muen Thom ruins after Thai authorities insisted his military escort could not carry weapons, Mr Chavanond said. The Cambodian premier said he understood the regulations and did not want to create tension between soldiers from the two countries, even though he just wanted to travel as a tourist, he said. Foreign Ministry Information director-general Wimol Kidchob said Mr Hun Sen's visit did not violate the sovereignty of Thailand. Earlier, 2nd Army commander Lt-Gen Weewalit Chornsamrit said on Monday that a group of Cambodian soldiers had requested Thai permission to visit Ta Muen Thom temple without their weapons, but he explained to them that the situation was unfavourable for their visit because of a possible confrontation with supporters of the People's Alliance for Democracy (PAD). PAD leader Veera Somkwamkid led about 150 protesters who gathered near the temple to oppose Mr Hun Sen's visit. Lt-Gen Weewalit said the Cambodian soldiers understood the situation and agreed not to enter the temple area. The Cambodian government had previously twice asked Thai authorities for permission for Mr Hun Sen to visit the ancient Khmer temple. Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva said after the cancellation of Mr Hun Sen's visit that the situation along the border had returned to normal. Mr Abhisit said that Cambodia's tactic to name a nearby village Ta Muen, like the name of the temple, would not affect Thailand. Cambodia had the right to name a village. In the morning, Mr Hun Sen officially opened a road leading to the temple and to Ta Muen village. The village has about 400 houses and is about 4 kilometres from Ta Muen Thom temple. Mr Abhisit also said Thailand has made clear its opposition to Unesco's approval of the listing of Preah Vihear temple as a World Heritage site administered by Phnom Penh. The government would request the voiding of the listing because the area involves disputed land, he added. Unesco's World Heritage Committee will rule on July 15 whether to continue listing Preah Vihear temple as a World Heritage site. http://www.bangkokpost.com/news/local/167853/hun-sen-skips-ta-muen-thom-temple-visit

BANGKOK -- Thailand has started deploying about 20,000 security forces to brace for protests ahead of a widely anticipated court ruling on the $2.2 billion fortune of deposed leader Thaksin Shinawatra, a spokesman said Monday. Supporters of Thaksin have stepped up anti-government demonstrations ahead of the Feb. 26 Supreme Court ruling on whether to seize Thaksin's assets. The former tycoon's riches were frozen after he was ousted by a coup in 2006. Government spokesman Panitan Wattanayagorn said more than 13,000 army, police and civilian security officers will be deployed across Thailand's 38 provinces. About 6,000 additional security will be deployed in the capital, where 200 checkpoints will be set up at "every entrance into Bangkok," he said. "We started to deploy forces earlier this month, but it will increase after Feb. 15," Panitan told reporters. "This is to prevent any uncertain situation from arising." Thaksin was removed from power after being accused of massive corruption while in office but remains a politically divisive figure in Thailand, where his supporters say he was unjustly treated and are demanding fresh elections. The Supreme Court will decide whether Thaksin's assets in Thailand were obtained through corrupt means and should be confiscated by authorities. Thailand has been gripped by pro-Thaksin and anti-Thaksin protests for more than three years. Thaksin supporters staged rallies in April that turned violent and the army had to be called in to restore order. ad_icon "We don't want a repeat of what happened last April when the troops came out a little late," Panitan said, adding authorities hoped to avoid invoking stringent security laws to keep order. "For now, we will use the normal laws. It depends on the situation." http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/02/08/AR2010020800969.html

Sorry guys, we are working on this. I apologize for the inconvenience. We have upgraded the server and missed the database for those days. To restore, we will loose all current posts. We are trying to find a solution. Melissa

The Kingdom of Thailand is known for its opulent architecture and the Thai people's love of ornate ceremony. The Thais perform their wedding ceremonies in no less an ostentatious manner than they perform any other ceremony in Thailand. As a result, weddings in Thailand can be fun-filled events and a marvelous sight to behold. Oddly, the same attitude is not taken with regard to legalization of a marriage in Thailand. In many cases throughout the Kingdom, marriages are solemnized according to either Buddhist religious rites or by local custom in the Province where the wedding takes place. In many cases, a customary wedding ceremony will not be legally registered per Thai law. Usually, marriage in Thailand requires execution of a legally binding marriage registration at the local Amphur office (Amphur is the Thai word for the office that keeps all of the marital records and name change affidavits, the Amphur office is similar to a clerk of the court in common law countries). For most Thais, the important factor for a Thai-American couple getting married is the customary or religious ceremony or ritual in which the couple publicly vows to remain committed and together with the village or respective families looking on as witnesses. In general, these rituals are performed by monks from a nearby temple and after blessing the nuptials the monks will pronounce the couple as wedded man and wife. In cases where those involved do not legally register their marriage the consequences from an American Immigration standpoint are important, this is especially true for those aspiring to get a Green Card for their Thai loved one. However, as odd as it sometimes seems, the fiancée visa is often faster to obtain than the classic marriage visas. Therefore, in some situations a couple will choose to have a marriage celebration in Thailand and wait to have an actual legally binding marriage ceremony in the United States. Also, where a marriage is not registered in Thailand, there is no recordation of a Thailand prenuptial agreement. In a few very rare cases, Thai courts have awarded unregistered spouses an equitable share of communal or marital assets, but in those situations the couple had been together for many years and had formed an "equitable partnership." It is often better to arrange a Thai prenuptial agreement while in Thailand because independent legal counsel can be obtained that utilizes Thai staff. This is very advantageous because the Thai language is not commonly spoken outside of Southeast Asia. (Please note that this text should not be used as a definitive guide to personal legal issues, this text is written to provide information of a general nature. No Attorney/Client bond is generated by the mere act of reading this article.) Ben Hart For more about this and other legal issues from Thailand contact Integrity Legal Toll Free at 1-877-231-7533 or via email at info@integrity-legal.com to learn more please see thailand prenuptial agreement or k-1 visa http://www.articlesbase.com/law-articles/customary-weddings-and-marriage-registration-in-thailand-975436.html

Thailand's Immigration system has grown increasingly confusing as rules change, visa fees are waived, and some visa categories are placed under more intense scrutiny by Consular officials. Recently, Consulates that were known as "visa run" destinations began restricting the issuance of multiple tourist visas. Places such as Penang, Malaysia and Vientiane , Laos are seeing a decline in "visa runners" as these new Consular policies drive them elsewhere. Many long term tourists as well as expatriates began toying with the notion of remaining in Thailand on non-immigrant or immigrant visas. This brings up the issue of long term non-immigrant Thai visas. Non-Immigrant Thai visas can be issued for different durations. For this reason, a properly prepared Thai visa application is essential to acquiring the type of visa one desires. A collateral issue is that of work authorization. In Thailand, much like the United States of America, the right to work and the right to remain in the country are two different types of entitlements. Therefore, one must submit separate applications to separate government agencies in order to obtain a Thai work permit and a Thai visa extension. Thai Immigrant visas, also known as Thai permanent resident visas, allow the bearer to remain in the Kingdom in perpetuity. However, these types of visas are very difficult to obtain and require one to spend a great deal of time as a non-immigrant resident in the Kingdom of Thailand. For some wishing to remain in the Kingdom for a long period of time, the retirement visa can be an effective method of immigrating. Applicants must be at least 5o years old to apply for this visa category. With that in mind, it is very beneficial for those with bona fide retirement intentions. Those in Thailand on this type of visa are not entitled to apply for a work permit. Those thinking of staying in Thailand for a long period should seriously weigh all options and do as much research as possible before making the decision to move. This is particularly the case for people who think that they will be allowed to stay in the Kingdom of Thailand for an indefinite period in tourist visa or visa exemption status. An even worse notion is the idea that one can simply remain in Thailand on overstay (in the Kingdom without proper Immigration documentation). Some people in the past would remain in the Kingdom for years without making certain that their immigration status was kept up to date. People of the opinion that this is an acceptable way of remaining in the Kingdom of Thailand should note that Royal Thai Immigration takes a dim view of visa violators and will detain them if caught. Also, a person without legal status cannot obtain a work permit or other necessities of residence. Ben Hart Benjamin Hart is a Memebr of the American Immigration Lawyers Association. He currently acts as Managing Director for Integrity Legal (Thailand) Co. Ltd. to learn more contact 1-877-231-7533 or info@integrity-legal.com. See further articles at Thailand Business Visa or Thailand Visas. http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/1-year-thai-visas-1456551.html

Thailand Immigration can be a confusing maze of seeming incongruous rules, regulations, and instructions. The layperson often first comes into contact with the Thai Immigration system during the visa application process. Assuming the visa is approved, the applicant will receive a visa stamp in their passport. Often there are many stamps and the different notations can cause confusion. For example, some visas to Thailand are stamped with a notation which states: "Employment Prohibited." Dismay is had because the visa holder believes this means that they cannot receive employment authorization at any time. In reality, this simply means that employment is not authorized based solely upon this travel document . The Thai authorities have split the right to work from the right to reside in Thailand. Much like a US business visa (B1), the bearer is only allowed to travel and enter the country for business related reasons which do not constitute employment in the USA. This same issue is often experienced by those in Thailand on a Thai business visa. Many labor under the incorrect belief that a Thai business visa entitles the bearer to work authorization in the Kingdom of Thailand. As a matter of fact, a Thai work permit is the only document that permits a foreign national to engage in employment in the Kingdom. Even with a work permit, one's employment must be within the scope of activities listed in the permit. That being said, a Thai business visa with an "Employment Prohibited" notation could still be utilized as a basis for a work permit application provided all of the other legal requirements are met. Another common notation that throws some would-be expats off guard is the one which states: "Extension of Stay Not Permitted." This is a truly disconcerting notation because many believe that it is impossible to extend their visa past the initial validity. This is not the case. Instead, this phrase should really read: "Extension of Stay is not allowed without re-authorization." One may extend a Thai business visa, but it is not a matter of right. Instead, an entirely new extension application must be submitted and approved before one will be permitted to remain in lawful status past the visa's expiration. This seems to be intended as a notation to be used internally by Thai government officers employed at either the Royal Thai immigration Police, the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs, or the Thai Ministry of Labour. Many foreigners are relieved to know that these notations rarely have a detrimental impact upon their long term plans. Thailand's Immigration regulations are always changing. Thus, detailed research might be required in order to ultimately acquire a valid visa. If possible, contact a legal professional for more information.) Ben Hart Benjamin Hart is an attorney in the USA and the Managing Director of Integrity Legal (Thailand) Co. Ltd. For more information, please contact 1-877-231-7533, +66 (0)2-266-3698, or info@integrity-legal.com. See more on the internet at Thai visa or Thai business visa. http://www.articlesbase.com/law-articles/thai-visas-what-does-employment-prohibited-mean-1577144.html

Wills are instruments used to state one's testamentary wishes after death. Usually the issue of Will preparation arises in the Kingdom of Thailand when property disbursements need to be arranged in advance of one's demise. In Thailand, both foreign nationals and Thai Citizens pass away, leaving property in the form of Real Estate, bank accounts , or other forms of personal property. In many cases, the family of the deceased will "let the will speak," which is another way of saying that they will have the Will read in front of those mentioned therein. After that the deceased's family will see to it that it processes through the appropriate probate court. This court will then see that the assets are distributed in the manner set forth in the codicils of the Will. A Living Will is an instrument to be used for an entirely different purpose. The following quote from Wikipedia accurately describes this kind of legal document: "[The Living Will] was first proposed by an Illinois attorney, Louis Kutner, in a law journal in 1969. Kutner drew from existing estate law, by which an individual can control property affairs after death (i.e., when no longer available to speak for themselves) and devised a way for an individual to speak to his or her health care desires when no longer able to express current health care wishes. Because this form of 'will' was to be used while an individual was still alive (but no longer able to make decisions) it was dubbed the 'living will.' A Living Will usually provides specific directives about the course of treatment that is to be followed by health care providers and caregivers. In some cases a living will may forbid the use of various kinds of burdensome medical treatment. It may also be used to express wishes about the use or foregoing of food and water, if supplied via tubes or other medical devices . The living will is only used if the individual has become unable to give informed consent or refusal due to incapacity. A living will can be very specific or very general. An example of a statement sometimes found in a living will is: 'If I suffer an incurable, irreversible illness, disease, or condition and my attending physician determines that my condition is terminal, I direct that life-sustaining measures that would serve only to prolong my dying be withheld or discontinued.'" http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Advance_health_care_directive#Living_will Recently, the popular website Thaivisa.com in conjunction with The Nation Newspaper reported that the Cabinet in the Kingdom of Thailand has preliminarily approved a proposal that would create legislation allowing living wills in the Kingdom: "The Cabinet Tuesday gave the green light to living wills. Under the draft decree, health professionals will honour a dying patient's wish to forego treatment during the terminal stage if it can only prolong life. The draft prepared by the National Health Commission Office will now go to the Council of State for review." http://www.thaivisa.com/forum/Thailand-Green-Light-Living-Wills-t320469.html It will probably be interesting to observe how this proposed legislation moves through the numerous government channels. Living Wills are generally an effective method of conveying one's wishes should some misfortune occur. As Thailand is primarily made up of Buddhist adherents, the idea of death can be a notion that some Thais do not wish to openly discuss. Although, passage of legislation aimed at providing for Thai Living Wills would probably be a major relief to some of those living in the Kingdom. With luck, this proposal may gain popular acceptance and be enacted as Thai law. Ben Hart Benjamin W. Hart is licensed to practice law in United States Federal District Court. He is also the Managing Director of Integrity Legal (Thailand) Co. Ltd. Contact Integrity Legal at: 1-877-231-7533, +66 (0)2-266-3698, info@integrity-legal.com. To learn more on related topis please see: US-Thai Amity Treaty or Thai property. http://www.articlesbase.com/law-articles/living-wills-in-thailand-1642365.html

This article is intended to provide a primer to those seeking information about maintaining lawful Thai Immigration status through border runs. Thai Immigration regulations are fast becoming more constrictive, multifaceted, and stringent. Compared to the European Union, the United States of America, Canada, Australia, or the United Kingdom Thailand's immigration rules are relatively liberal. However, compared to countries in Southeastern Asia such as Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia, and Indonesia the Thai Immigration rules are considerably more stringent. The promulgation of Thai visa exemption stamps is one area of Thai Immigration that has slowly become more regulated over the years. There was a time when non-Thai nationals could remain in the Kingdom for a virtually indefinite period of time so long as they made monthly trips to the border in order to be stamped out and stamped back into the country on a visa exemption. These trips to the border were called "border runs," or "visa runs," which explains the etymology of those terms. Around the beginning of this decade, Thailand's Immigration authorities began giving serious thought to the visa exemption program and many modifications have been made over the past ten years. Most important to many is the end of the infinite "border run," because now non-ASEAN citizens are only granted a maximum of 15 days presence in the Kingdom without a visa and those repeatedly utilizing a visa exemption are viewed suspiciously. Although this method of visa running is being phased out, there are other methods of maintaining lawful status which may still be beneficial to those wishing to remain in the Kingdom. The "airport visa run," has become somewhat popular as flights to countries like Malaysia and Vietnam are relatively inexpensive. Couple this with the fact that Thai Immigration currently grants thirty day exemption stamps at the airport to many nationalities and this creates a situation in which some opt to use the airport in a manner similar to previous land border usage. Another method of "visa running," now being employed is that of running to a nearby Consulate and obtaining a tourist or non-immigrant visa. These travel documents provide at least 60 days lawful status with a possible option to extend the visa domestically at Royal Thai Immigration. However, Consulates and Embassies in Southeast Asia are becoming less cooperative in granting multiple tourist visas. The Thai visa process is generally easier for those who begin the process from their country of origin or travel back to their country of origin in order to apply for a long term visa. This could be attributed to the fact that some choose to apply for a long-stay multiple entry visa. This method still requires visa running, but the upside is a lack of hassle because it is not necessary to return to a Consulate. Also, Thai Immigration routinely stamps such visa holders out and back in on the same day thereby providing 90 more days of lawful status in the Kingdom. As this method provides the most lawful presence in Thailand and creates the least amount of consternation, it has become the preferred method for long term travelers staying in Thailand. Ben Hart Benjamin W. Hart is a Member of the American Immigration Lawyers Association and Managing Director of Integrity Legal (Thailand) Ltd. a US-Thai Amity Treaty company. Contact Integrity Legal at 1-877-231-7533, +66 (0)2-266-3698, or info@integrity-legal.com. See more on this subject at Thailand visa. http://www.articlesbase.com/law-articles/thailand-visa-runs-methods-of-maintaining-status-1583307.html

"When you look in the mirror, what do you see?" Do you have trouble looking in the mirror? Does the reflection looking back at you cause frustration, anger, or sadness? If the answer is yes, you could have a disordered body image. Take a look at the following questionnaire, developed by Cindy Maynard (1998), a registered dietician. It appears on the Eating Disorder Referral and Information Center's website's section on body image. A. Body Image Questionnaire • Have you avoided sports or working out because you didn't want to be seen in gym clothes? Yes / No • Does eating even a small amount of food make you feel fat? Yes / No • Do you worry or obsess about your body not being small, thin, or good enough? Yes / No • Are you concerned your body is not muscular or strong enough? Yes / No • Do you avoid wearing certain clothes because they make you feel fat? Yes / No • Do you feel badly about yourself because you don't like your body? Yes / No • Have you ever disliked your body? Yes / No • Do you want to change something about your body? Yes / No • Do you compare yourself to others and "come up short?" Yes / No Answering "Yes" to 3 or more of these questions may indicate a poor body image. So what is body image? While there have been many definitions of body image, the most clinically accepted definition, developed by researchers Cash, Ancis, and Stratchan in 1997 separates body image into two distinct categories: 1. Body-image evaluation 2. Body-image investment Body-image evaluation is the way in which a person perceives his or her body, including one's thoughts and feelings about one's body. According to the Eating Disorder Referral and Information Center's website, body-image evaluation includes: • How you see or picture yourself. • How you feel others perceive you. • What you believe about your physical appearance. • How you feel about your body. • How you feel in your body. Body-image investment describes the actions one takes, as a result of one's evaluation, in order to enhance, improve, or change one's body (Cash et al., 1997). These actions can be as simple as getting a haircut or beginning an exercise program, or they can be as extreme as engaging in disordered eating or undergoing excessive amounts of cosmetic surgery. Body image can be affected by many factors. Messages from parents, peers, and coaches can change the way we see our bodies. However, the most pervasive factor in developing a disordered body image appears to be the media. Societal images portray women as young, vibrant, and rail-thin, while men are portrayed as muscular, youthful, and lean. We see these images repeated over and over in television, on billboards, in magazines. The message is clear: beauty is young and thin. This ideal image has become especially obvious over the last few decades. At the turn of the 20th century, actress Lillian Russell was idealized for her beauty at 200 pounds, yet in the 1990's, the term "heroin chic" was used to describe the emaciated look of typical models. From the 1950's to today Playboy models and Miss America contestants have shown a significant and constant decrease in weight. (Turner, Hamilton, Jacobs, Angood, Deanne, Dwyer, 1997). Over time, these "ideals" have become less and less attainable, as many models and actresses have resorted to disordered eating in order to starve their way to a beautiful body. In fact, research done by Fox in 1997 showed that the current media's "ideal", is achievable by less than 5% of the female population. In an interesting follow-up study, this same researcher found that women who more closely resemble this ideal, do not have higher self-esteem. Instead they feel self-doubt about their appearance or question whether their worth is only related to their appearance. A follow-up study was conducted by Anne Becker, director of research at the Harvard Eating Disorders Center. The study was done 3 years after the arrival of Western television to Fiji. The study elicited the following results (Harvard, 1999): • 15% of girls vomited to control weight, as compared to only 3% of girls 3 years earlier. • 29% of girls were considered "at-risk" for developing an eating disorder, as compared to 13% 3 years earlier. • 74% of girls considered themselves "too fat". Girls who watched television 3 or more times a week were 50% more likely to consider themselves fat and 30% more likely to diet. • 62% of girls had dieted in the past month (more than the typical American teenager). Additional researchers have concluded that: • Only 30 minutes of television watching can change a young woman's perception of her own size and shape (Myers and Biocca, 1992). • Magazine and television viewing is directly related to dieting habits in young women (Levine, Smolak and Hayde 1994 as cited in Burggraf et al., 1999). • Viewing women who possess the "thin ideal" body significantly impacts women struggling with Anorexia Nervosa. (Burggraf et al., 1999). • Women who view fashion magazines perceive themselves to be larger than they actually are (Hamilton, Waller, 1993 as cited in Burggraf et al., 1999). With the ubiquitous presence of the media, and the unachievable ideals that are represented, how do we determine what is healthy? To answer this question, we must separate the definition of a disordered body image from a healthy body image: A disordered body image is one in which the person's self esteem depends almost completely on the perception of body size, shape, and weight. On the other hand, a healthy body image is one in which the person's self esteem is comprised of many factors, of which body image is only one part. According to Nathaniel Branden who wrote what is considered the definitive work on Self-Esteem, The Six Pillars of Self-Esteem (1994), self-esteem is comprised of two components: Self-efficacy and Self-Respect (p. 26). Self-efficacy is the belief that one has the ability, knowledge, and skills to take care of oneself. Self- Respect is the belief in one's own value: it is believing that one deserves to be loved, to be treated well and to be happy. Branden identifies six practices that are critical for the attainment and maintenance of a healthy self-esteem (p. 66). • Living Consciously • Self-Acceptance • Self-Responsibility • Self-Assertiveness • Living Purposefully • Personal Integrity Living Consciously Living Consciously means being aware of our bodies, our choices, our environment, and ourselves. It is being connected with our physical, emotional, and spiritual selves. To starve oneself, overfeed oneself, or despise or distort or reject parts of oneself because of a perceived defect, despite information to the contrary, all require a lack of connection to oneself. Believing that beauty is something defined by the media, without questioning its motives, lacks consciousness. Becoming more conscious enables one to make the best choices for oneself. Self-Acceptance A central component to improving one's body image is having self-acceptance. A realistic view of oneself, including strengths and weaknesses, is an important first step. To focus on one's flaws at the exclusion of one's strengths, or vice versa, is to not have a realistic view of oneself. Without this, self- acceptance cannot occur. Self-Responsibility Understanding that the media influences an individual's self-perception does not mean that one should feel victimized by the media. We are each responsible for our own choices and behaviors, regardless of outside influence. However, having an awareness of the media's power allows an individual to make more responsible choices about how one chooses to view oneself. Self-Assertiveness Branden defines self-assertiveness as "the willingness to stand up for myself, to be who I am openly, to treat myself with respect in all human encounters" (p. 119). It is the belief that, "My life does not belong to others and I am not here to live up to someone else's expectations" (p. 121). When a person rejects one's body or tries to change one's body to fit an external ideal, one is rejecting one's own authenticity. A person who can see who they are, to identify what they value, and to explore their own concepts of beauty begins the process of self-assertion. Living Purposefully Focusing exclusively on one's appearance indicates that a person may lack connection with a higher purpose for one's life. Looking at one's values and the contributions one may want to make to society may help contextualize the importance of appearance. Having goals aside from a certain number on the scale or a certain size on an article of clothing helps align people toward achieving a greater purpose for their life. Personal Integrity "When we behave in ways that conflict with our judgment of what is appropriate, we lose face in our own eyes," explains Branden (p. 144). Most would agree that spending excessive amounts of time, energy, and resources on one's appearance, or berating the self for one's dissatisfaction with his/her appearance is not appropriate. If one were to witness another person engaging in such behaviors, one would likely identify it as such. Highlighting the importance of living with integrity and being in alignment with one's personal beliefs is the final pillar of self-esteem. These principles, as identified by Branden are not measured by what we see in the mirror. Instead, they are measured through the things that we do, the way we handle ourselves, and the way that we treat others, probably the most significant of which is the one in the mirror. To find out more, check out Eric Viskovicz's http://liveinfitness.com.'>http://liveinfitness.com. Eric Viskovicz is the founder and director of Live In Fitness Enterprises. His site, http://liveinfitness.com is where many people find his Marina Del Rey weight loss retreat. When it comes to weight loss, Eric Viskovicz is both an innovator and a pioneer. Due to his own struggle with weight loss, and a comprehensive understanding of the way in which the struggle to lose weight can totally envelope a person, Eric was the first person to realize that in order to be successful at weight loss, it needs to be treated in the way in which it is experienced. What this means to Eric is that in order to win at weight loss, a person has to first completely understand himself. This philosophy led Eric Viskovicz to produce the first ever approach to weight loss based on the person's personality.

he Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has launched new Twitter and Facebook campaigns, offering Thailand-related travel information to the public. The TAT is offering up-to-date information about Thailand events, activities, news etc. “We want travelers to Thailand to be more actively involved into the shaping of our web content by updating our site with their own experiences and advices,” said TAT’s new governor, Suraphon Svetasreni. Those looking to visit Thailand will find a wide variety of resources on TAT’s social media pages, including external links that provide information about Thailand, videos, general Thailand news, events and more. Users can also leave comments or ask questions about Thailand. http://www.m-travel.com/news/2010/01/tourism-authority-of-thailand-to-make-use-of-twitter-and-facebook.html

Thailand's multi-billion-baht fashion apparel business is changing rapidly as producers chase benefits from zero import tariffs under the expanded Asean Free Trade Area (Afta) agreement that took effect this month. Thai brands as well as trading firms representing global labels are exploiting new market opportunities in the region. Patcharawan Boonnumsup, a director of the Thai Garment Manufacturers Association (TGMA), said that dozens of international brands were planning to make their debuts in Thailand this year. They will enter the market on their own or will be imported by Thai manufacturers and distributors. At the same time, some firms are studying launching their own brands in the long term. LEM Co, the owner of Espada fashion, yesterday introduced f.fashion from France. Central Marketing Group and Blue Corner are also considering importing more international brands this year. DKSH Co, the distributor of Levi's jeans, is looking to open new markets in Southeast Asia by the end of this year. There is a long waiting list of new international labels to occupy space in leading retail stores, said a source from a leading department store. Somphol Chaisiriroj, vice-president of ICC International Plc, the Saha Group affiliate that distributes Arrow apparel, said the company welcomed the competition. ''Competition is good but the point is how well local producers can refresh their brands and adjust to cope with the more intense competition and offer innovative items,'' he said. ICC yesterday launched Jewel of Excellency & Arrow, a new Arrow shirt collection, which uses Swarovski crystals as an element on the shirts. ''We saw a great opportunity in im porting raw materials and product elements from other countries in Southeast Asia or even China at better prices,'' Mr Somphol said. ICC International has been actively involved in the local garment industry from upstream by having its own weaving and yarn factories. As a result, the company can develop its own fabric and clothing materials, giving it an edge over other players in the market. Mr Somphol suggested Thai brands pay attention to their strengths and do things that imported brands cannot do. Kevin Corning, general manager of the fashion apparel division at DKSH (Thailand) Limited, the Thai distributor of Levi's jeans, said the strong performance of Levi's here would help it open a new market in Southeast Asia. DKSH has had a long partnership with Levi's. Also, it owns a sewing and laundry factory in Thailand and under Afta it can now export more products to Asean countries. However, Mr Corning said the main focus of Levi's remains Thailand as demand for jeans products was expected to be higher than last year. DKSH has spent US$1 million to install new equipment for producing more complicated jeans and upgrading production procedures. The production capacity of Levi's products is expected to rise by 15-20% this year. DKSH expects its sales will grow by 10% this year. The company yesterday introduced the new Levi's Indigo iconic line to attract teens and young people. Levi's has chosen Tony Rakkaen and Ploy Horwang as the new presenters for its jeans. Levi's now has 135 shops in Thailand and between five and seven will be added this year. In 2009, the Thai jeans market was valued at 5 billion baht and Levi's controlled an estimated 40% share. Relate Search: LEM Co, DKSH Co, Patcharawan Boonnumsup, Thai Garment Manufacturers Association http://www.bangkokpost.com/business/marketing/31457/fashion-firms-rushing-to-try-on-afta

I am quite envious of this guy and hope he has a fantastic journey! SOMEWHERE OVER THE ARCTIC -- For the next six months or so, the world is my home. After a whirlwind decision and four months of loose planning, I strapped on a 70L backpack filled to the top, packed up my laptop and got on a one-way plane to Bangkok, Thailand, to embark on the journey of a lifetime. I have few set plans and no expectations but to see and write about as much of the world as possible. For at least half of 2010, I'll be traveling the world on what I've learned through various travel forums is called a RTW (short for 'round-the-world) journey. A gap year, if you will. While relatively uncommon in the United States, the gap year is akin to a rite of passage for 20-somethings in other parts of the world. In Australia, students are encouraged to travel or go on a working holiday before beginning university. And in Israel, after completing service in the Israel Defense Force, it is customary for the 21-year-old to travel. It is only in the 9-to-5 culture of the United States that I have found adverse reactions of, "Have you seen the movie `Taken'? " or "When will you wake up and get another job?" To answer simply: No, I have not seen "Taken" and, for now, exploring different countries and cultures is my job. I've rid myself of most possessions -- packed them up or gave them away -- and brought only the necessities with me: a week's worth of clothes, some toiletries, a debit card and my passport. Preparation included three odd jobs, a table-sized map to plan a tentative route and many appointments to the local travel health clinic for vaccinations and information. Andrea Ramsay, a college friend from the University of Delaware's student newspaper, is along for the ride. We hope to hit about 20 countries, depending on our tight budgets and ease of travel. Sitting on the plane, I feel numb to what's to come. It's like the immensity of this trip and all of the places I'll see and people I'll meet haven't hit me yet. I'm excited and scared, but mostly unsure of what to think. The trip comes at an interesting time in my life and in world politics. It's the start of a new decade, filled with problems left over from 2000s -- such as the flailing economy and the war in Iraq -- and hope for resolution in the coming years. It also comes at an interesting time for the travel industry. Because of the economy, the travel industry -- both domestically and internationally -- has seen a dramatic decrease in profits over the last five years. According to a recent USA Today/Gallup poll, the majority of Americans plan to spend less this year on air travel and hotel stays. And now, in response to the attempted terror attack on a Northwest Airlines' Christmas Day flight to Detroit, the U.S. Transportation Security Administration now finds itself re-evaluating security measures in place since the attacks on Sept. 11, 2001, as more information on the attack by Nigerian Umar Farouk Abdulmutallab comes to light. In addition to the usual screening process and prohibited items on board, the TSA now reserves the right to question potential passenger before they board a flight. In addition, the U.S. government has released a list of about 13 countries of interest, in which international travelers bound for the United States will see enhanced screenings. As for me, however, it's a great time to travel. This trip comes at a time when I'm ready to explore not just the world, but myself. I'm still a recent college graduate in my early 20s and already I've accomplished more than half of my peers. I'm not sure what I want to do next, but I'm excited for whatever it is. This trip could lead me to another job in journalism, back to graduate school or an entirely different field of work that I never dreamed of doing. But for now, it's leading me to the beginning of a new adventure and where many backpackers begin their journey: Thailand. http://www.stamfordadvocate.com/opinion/article/Trip-around-the-world-starts-in-Thailand-330599.php

Demand for higher productivity has pushed farmers in Asia to let go of the water buffalo as a farming tool. Today, governments and investors are finding ways to expand the iconic beast of burden's role on the farm. Millions of farmers in Southeast Asia rely on water buffalo to prepare the land for planting. The smaller tractors they can afford leave deep wheel marks that ruin water distribution in the rice paddy. One farmer in the Philippines says he still prefers the buffalo because it loosens and turns up the soil more evenly. But for highly productive rice farms machines have replaced slow-moving buffalos. "Nowadays, less and less people use buffalo," said Runchuan Hengtrakulsin, who has been working on alternative uses for buffalo for more than seven years. Inspired by Italians who produce mozzarella cheese using the milk of buffalos imported from India decades ago, she has established Thailand's first buffalo dairy farm. "I think there should be a new mission for buffalo, some new environment for buffalo, so buffalo, especially in Thailand, they should have a job to do," she added. But local water buffalos do not produce enough milk. So, Runchuan imported murrah buffalos from India and Pakistan, which can produce more than 1,500 kilograms of milk in about 10 months. It took her several years to cross-breed buffalos to increase milk production. Now, she focuses on expanding her product line, starting with mozzarella. But marketing products from buffalo milk is a challenge. Thais, she says, not only think buffalo milk is inferior to cow's milk, but that it can also lower their intelligence. "When they come here, children reject buffalo milk…. Buffalo milk is very, very rich in nutrition - higher protein, higher calcium, and low in cholesterol," Runchuan said. And breeding buffalos, she says, is easier than imported dairy cows. But it costs $300 a day to operate the 72-hectare farm, which is home to 300 buffalo. A profit, she says, is still a long way away. With growing demand for milk in Asia, Runchuan hopes for greater government support and perhaps a new role for the long neglected buffalo. http://www1.voanews.com/english/news/asia/Farmers-in-Asia-Turn-to-Machines-Water-Buffalos-Need-New-Job-82367392.html

Smile, you're in Thailand. That's not a suggestion here, it's practically a requirement. Thai people begin every interaction with a smile: Go into a store, smile; pass someone on the street, smile; order a fried curry with squid and a Singha beer, smile. All this smiling becomes contagious. The friendly people, inexpensive massages, delicious food and tropical weather don't hurt either. I was lucky enough to spend this past New Year's Eve in Koh Samui, a tropical island in the Gulf of Thailand. I had just gotten married in Bangkok (my wife's father lives there), and after the reception the wedding party (all 14 of us) flew to Samui to celebrate New Year's, relax on the beach and of course play golf. "Men only organize two things: how they're getting beer and where they're playing golf," my wife said when I told her about my morning tee time at Santiburi Samui Golf Club. Our foursome (me, my father, my brother and my brother-in-law) took a 30-minute cab ride (about $15 U.S.) from our resort to the course. The course is less than 10 years old and the clubhouse has decent rental sets and all the tees, gloves and balls you forgot to pack, plus an outdoor restaurant overlooking the coconut jungles and white-sand beaches of Samui for your lunch or post-round drinks. The course is carved into the island mountain and the elevation changes make it virtually unwalkable. Instead each player has a cart and a caddie. The caddie experience is what makes golf in Thailand so remarkable. In Asia, the caddies are almost all women, as is often reported with an unseemly wink. It's not like that at all. First, the caddies are completely covered to protect themselves from the sun, which make them look about as provocative as Scarlett Johansson in a beekeeper's suit. (OK, bad example.) Second, the caddies are all about the golf: they give yardages, select clubs and read putts like any chain-smoking Scotsman, they're just a lot sweeter. And just like at those Scottish courses, your caddies get into your round. If you're playing well, you'll hear a lot of "good shot" and soft applause. My father was the biggest hit with the caddies at Santiburi, who took to calling him "Papa" and cheered loudly when his tee shots split the fairway. The Santiburi Samui course is a challenging resort track: generous fairways and large greens, but enough doglegs, tricky greens, ravines and bunkers to make you think. The views are the real treat though. The downhill par-3 sixth plays into a natural waterfall, and on the par-4 16th [see photo above] you play toward the ocean and nearby Phangan island, site of Samui's legendary full-moon parties. And the best part is that once your round is over, you're still in Samui. After we finished our round and settled our bets over a beer, we headed back to Chaweng Beach, which hosted a New Year's Eve celebration the likes of which I've never seen before. Take a look. Santiburi Samui Golf Club Koh Samui, Thailand 6,930 yards, par 72 Fees: Green Fee 3600 baht ($110); Caddie fee 250 baht ($8); Caddie tip: about 300 baht ($9); Cart: 600 baht ($18); Clubs: 1000 baht ($30) Read more: http://blogs.golf.com/trips/2010/01/golf-in-the-land-of-smiles-santiburi-samui-golf-club-thailand.html#ixzz0dOUQlMYo

Burmese migrant workers in Thailand fear new immigration and work permit procedures will make life harder for them and their families back home. Thai authorities say the new procedures will curb illegal migration but rights activists say the measures threaten the migrants' security. The Thai cabinet has recently ordered migrant workers to verify their nationality to qualify for work permits. The new guidelines cover over one million legal Burmese migrant workers in Thailand, as well as more than 200,000 workers from Laos and Cambodia. Under the guidelines announced Tuesday, migrant workers must begin the new work permit procedures by February 28th or risk deportation. The Thai government says the new rules are meant to control the flow of illegal migrants, now estimated to number three million. Panitan Wattanaygorn, a government spokesman, says the influx of illegal migrants has reached a critical stage. "I think the situation is very critical had they not begun to implement this kind of policies or procedures," he said. "So the National Security Council sees this as a major concern for Thai security and they want to implement the law. But the law has to be adjusted so they have come up with this new proposal because we need foreign workers in Thailand," he said. Thailand has long relied on migrant workers, who usually take tough, low-paying jobs in the construction, farming and fishing industries. The government has been talking with officials in Burma, Laos and Cambodia since 2004 on ways to clarify the status of migrant workers. The Lao and Cambodian governments agreed to send officials to Thailand so their nationals could verify their nationality without leaving the country. Officials in Burma, also called Myanmar, refused to send staff to Thailand. Instead, Burmese workers must go to registration offices just across the border to complete the process. Thetis Mangahas, a migration expert with the International Labor Office, says while a comprehensive migration policy is necessary, the new rules trouble Burmese workers. Mangahas says the workers worry about how the information they provide will be used. "There are individuals who are in real fear about providing information that might cause the government of Myanmar [burma] to retaliate or to take action against the families. So you have a very complicated situation here and it's really as a result of policies which have not been thought through," said Mangahas. There are reports that when a worker files the paperwork to start the new process, Burmese officials use the address to harass families for additional taxes. Joseph Serrani is the foreign affairs coordinator with the Thai Action Committee for Democracy in Burma, an organization that offers training courses for Burmese migrants. He says the workers have little confidence in the Burmese government's national verification policy. "Because of the past experiences of the government in Burma and the way they have treated their people most migrants see this as another opportunity for the government in Burma to exploit them further. So most migrants see this as an opportunity for the Burmese government to regularize them, somehow tax them," he said. Na Bamoom Maha works as a nanny in Bangkok. She fears being sent back to Burma. She says if the migrant workers fail to go through the verification process it may result in a crackdown against illegal and undocumented migrant workers. She says her family in Burma says if she cannot stay with a work permit, she should return home. There also are risks with crossing the border. Young women, for instance, can become victims of human traffickers. Other workers may be forced to pay bribes to get the paperwork done. Some workers fear losing their jobs because they have to take time off to go to the border. Migrant rights workers say some Burmese may go underground, rather than risk crossing the border. The new rules also mean new costs for migrants - up to two month's wages. They have to pay for the new documents and the trip to the border, and often have to pay fees to the labor brokers who get them jobs. Debbie Stothardt is with the activist group the Alternate ASEAN Network, which campaigns for political reforms in Burma. "It is ironic and it's tragic that the lowest income earners doing the dirtiest, dangerous jobs are actually being forced to go through this process which is expensive and far too complicated," she said. Despite the complaints of rights activists, the Thai government remains determined to implement the new guidelines. But experts on migrant labor in the region say the policy could be counterproductive, by driving more migrants to work illegally and putting them at risk of abuses by unscrupulous employers. http://www1.voanews.com/english/news/asia/Burmese-Migrant-Workers-Thai-Work-Permit-Rules--82289817.html

For ardent vacation lovers, Koh Samui in Thailand is a must visit place. It is quite different from other parts of Thailand. It is a 3rd biggest island of Thailand. It is situated in the Gulf of Thailand, and is encircled by around 60 other islands. Its distinct features include white sandy beaches, crystal clear seas, and moving coconut trees. In the recent past, coconuts were the prime cash crop of the island. They were the backbone of the island's economy. All this is enough to make prospective tourists visit this island. All this gives the island a hip look and helps it establish its unique identity. Koh Samui has many tourist attractions, so you won't be bored for ever. They include: Angthong National Marine Park, also called as the Golden Basin. Here you can participate in snorkeling. The Samui Aquarium is a famous undersea world. Another attraction, the Tiger Zoo Ko Samui is the home to Bengal tigers and leopards. Wat Khunaram Ko Samui is the renowned temple on the island. It is dedicated to former abbot of the temple, who was a meditation master. Devotees come here to offer homage to his mummy. One more important shrine in Ko Samui is the Laem Sor Pagoda Ko Samui. It has yellow tiles that give a golden hue to the temple. Koh Samui also has the Big Buddha. It has a 12 metre tall idol of the Buddha at the Wat Phra Yai. Besides going sight seeing, you can also participate in the dancing held at the Full Moon Party. It is regarded as the trendiest and jazziest dance party ever held on the island. You are welcome to publish the article along with the hyperlinked URL: Hotels Koh Samui Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jack_Dan

Southern Thailand is famous for few of the world's most exotic recipes. This also includes Koh Samui, where people have used their imagination to choose and showcase food. Whether you visit a roadside vendor or a classy restaurant you are sure to get something fitting your taste and pocket. Samui has 3 chief areas for restaurants and bars, and another 4 isolated places to check out. The first and most famous is Chaweng beach which has a wide array of restaurants to select from. They include French, Japanese, Italian and Royal Thai. They are located on the beach, below the stars, under a thatched roof or in cool comfort. Located in the north, close to Big Buddha lies Bophut beach. It was once a fishing spot, but today is littered with an array of restaurants and is the gastronomic capital of Koh Samui. The silent and scenic setting makes this spot an excellent place for a romantic dinner. These restaurants are the restored wooden houses of the past and offer you French, Indian, Thai, Italian and seafood cuisines. They are very close to the sea. Besides international cuisine, Big Buddha beach has various excellent Thai restaurants. Outstanding and creative pub food can be bought from snazzy cafés, littered throughout the area. To the island's south, lies Lamai beach, the 2nd biggest beach. Eating here is more economical than Chaweng beach and has numerous small, family run Thai eating joints. You can also get an enchanting blend of restaurants from European to Asian fusion, thus satisfying everybody's tastes. Maenam is one the island's most peaceful and scenic beaches. Here the restaurants fit everybody's pocket and serve cuisines from throughout the world. It is filled with street stalls where you can buy a part of Pad Thai and have it on the beach for a cheap yet unforgettable eating experience. If you are daring and enjoy eating unfamiliar dishes, go to the south-east and west coasts. Here a large portion of island's fresh fish is caught, making it a seafood paradise. There are some small unnamed restaurants here that can provide you a tasty meal and a cordial Thai welcome Koh Samui is a foodie's delight and you will remember all the food you had here. You are welcome to publish the article along with the hyperlinked URL: Hotels Samui Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jack_Dan

Koh Samui locals are very amiable and you will be relaxed after your trip. Local markets are flooded with numerous interesting things. One market is located at Lam Din, situated behind Chaweng. The other ones are the Hua Thanon fishing village and the Nathon fresh food market. These places are sure to give you the actual view of native Samui life. The primary source of income in Koh Samui is tourism. The local culture is lively and you need to interact with the locals to get the actual experience of Samui culture. Festivals play a vital role in Koh Samui. People commemorate nearly all the festivals with a great gusto. Some important festivals on this island include: Songkran, Chinese New Year and Loi Krathong. Songkran festival is Thai New Year that falls in April. Chinese New Year falls in February and Loi Krathong or Festival of Light is normally commemorated in November. In these festivals, processions, food fairs, temple celebrations and live performances are held. Tourism Authority in Nathon holds periodic cultural events on the island. Koh Samui has temple fairs, held throughout the year. They move from village to village and have heavy local participation. The larger fairs have market stalls, live amusement, street food, thick crowds etc. They also show a Kung Fu movie and fortune tellers are the main center of attraction here. The country bars in Koh Samui are the preferred venues. Many locals spend time chilling out here. Live music, local drinks, and food are the main attractions here. The locals are your best guide if you are looking for an ideal place to utmost enjoyment. The cowboy type logos are very popular in the prime ring road. Foreigners are warmly welcomed to take part in the revelries. Buffalo fighting is one of the more famous sports on the island. The winning buffalo gets 7 million baths. The fighting season is fixed as per the olden rites and rituals. Stadium is situated at Ban Saket and Ban Makham, to the south. There is a vibrant atmosphere outside the ring. Songkran festival is very famous here. It is held in April, at the termination of the Buddhist lunar cycle. It is celebrated in both conventional as well as contemporary way. Locals go to the temples in the morning and join others in partaking food and drink. Parties are held in the evening, throughout the island. Water plays a vital role in this festival and people throw water on each other. So if you dislike getting wet, don't visit Koh Samui during this period. You are welcome to publish the article along with the hyperlinked URL: Samui Hotel Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jack_Dan

Koh Samui is 700 kms to the south of Bangkok in the Gulf of Thailand and 50 kms from Surat Thani. Regular flights are the most comfortable way to reach the island. For those looking to save money, trains, buses and boats can be used. If you have car or motorcycle, there are car ferries. Via Air Koh Samui's little open airport has both domestic and international flights from Singapore, Hong Kong and Kuala Lumpur. There are hourly flights from Bangkok's Suvunarbhumi International Airport between 6 am to 9 pm for Koh Samui everyday. There are hourly Bangkok Airways flights and Thai airways has 2-3 flights per day. These flights cost 2200 - 3500 baht for Bangkok Airways and can go up to 7400 baht for Thai Airways. The duration of the flight is about 1.15 hours. Bangkok Airways also conducts daily flights to Koh Samui from Phuket, Chiang Mai and Pattaya and twice a week flights between Krabi and Koh Samui. For economical flights, opt for Air Asia's flights from Bangkok, costing 600 - 900 baht. These flights take you to Surat Thani, from where you can take local shuttles or cabs to Donsak Pier or Samui Ferry Pier and then continue further to the island. For international tourists, Bangkok Airways conducts direct flights from Hong Kong on Monday, Wednesday and Friday; Kuala Lumpur on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday and Singapore on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday. Berjaya Air has 2 flights per week on Thursday and Sunday from Kuala Lumpur. Via Train and Ferry You have to buy train & ferry tickets separately. So you have to take local transport from the train station to the dock, where you can buy ferry tickets. To prevent any delay, find out about ferry timings in advance. However avoid online booking of trains from Bangkok to Surat Thani by using your credit card to prevent addition of handling fees to the ticket costs. You may also have to face the risk of waiting for a boat to Koh Samui or being overcharged for local transport to the dock. So it advisable to buy a combined train/shuttle/ferry ticket from one of the numerous travel agencies in Bangkok. There are 2 trains departing from Bangkok's Hualamphong station everyday and arrive at Surat Thani in 8 hours. When you take a combined ticket, you are escorted and taken to the ferry, from where you can arrive at Koh Samui in 1.5 hours. The costs starts from just more than 1000 - 1700 baht, based on the type of train seat selected for the journey. Via Bus (or coach) and Ferry For cost conscious, bus and ferry trip is the best option. Air-conditioned overnight buses depart from Bangkok's southern bus station everyday. These buses leave at late afternoon and early evening. On reaching Surat Thani, buses are transported to Koh Samui. Bus fares start from 300 to 400 baht based on the class of service selected and travel time is about 14 hours. Ferry fares lie below 50 baht. Private companies operate coaches and pick up people from numerous spots in Bangkok. They usually let travelers buy a combined coach/ferry tickets from local travel agencies. This journey takes around 13 hours. The cost lies between 350 - 650 baht based on the type of the service. There are daily bus services from Hat Yai, Phuket and Krabi. However this trip is meant for the toughest travelers. Unscheduled local buses halt at any spot to pick up anybody looking to board the bus. The trip may take longer than the overnight buses and coaches Via boat Express catamaran service to Koh Samui departs from adjacent Koh Tao and mainland ports of Chumphon and Surat Thani. There are also usual ferry service and smaller boat services available. Long-tail boat service operates planned trips to and from Koh Phangan. Via car or motorcycle There is a ferry service departing every hour from 06:00 - 18:00 from both Donsak Pier and Samui Ferry Pier. The time taken is about 1.5 hours. You are welcome to publish the article along with the hyperlinked URL: Samui Hotel Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jack_Dan

Although many people may feel that bicycling in Bangkok is not a tenable proposition, it can be done with relative safety and offers much convenience for many excursions that would be time-consuming and exhausting if done by foot. Bangkok has made a weak attempt at supporting bicycles by sporadically marking sidewalk lanes for bikes, allowing bicycles on the MRT (subway), the BTS (SkyTrain), and riverboats. However, the MRT and riverboats require that the bicycle be of the foldable type and be folded to be allowed aboard. Also, there is a long elevated walkway that links the north end of Lumpini Park with Sukumvit Soi 10 which provides a convenient, safe and fast transit between Lumpini Park and the lower Sukumvit area. Right of Way The general right of way rule in Thailand is that the largest/heaviest vehicle has the right of way; pedestrians have the lowest. In short, "if it's bigger than you, it will kill you unless you get out of its way". My rule is to give right of way to all vehicles and pedestrians. This prevents unwanted confrontations with both vehicles and pedestrians. This applies especially to sidewalks, since many sidewalks are marked with a bicycle lane. Although many sidewalks are marked with about a 1 meter wide bike lane, the use of the lanes by bikes is so light that it is often cluttered with mobile vendors and pedestrians. Often, in tourist areas especially, the sidewalks have vendors and pedestrians so it is difficult to continue riding safely, so the bicycle should be walked or the sidewalk abandoned for the street. The Bicycle Bell It is often important to let a pedestrian know that you are approaching from behind by using the bell as far away as possible so that they have time to recognize it and act accordingly... if they hear it, that is. Sidewalks or Street? Because of the crowded or poor conditions of many sidewalks, it is often necessary to alternate between the sidewalk and street. This is especially true when trying to make the best time in a trade-off with safety. Some street traffic conditions are potentially unsafe due to high-speed traffic and the fact that dedicated bike lanes in Bangkok are rare. The buses are the biggest offenders with their seemingly oblivious attitude and frequent stops. From both safety and rapid transit perspectives, gridlocked traffic is the best for a bicycle on the street. Intersections These are probably the most dangerous part of bicycling. The advantage the cyclist has, is that he or she can decide to cross an intersection as either a pedestrian or a vehicle depending on the situation. Where to Buy Bicycles in Bangkok Tesco-Lotus Big C Carrefour Amorn, Fortune Town Pro Bike, 237 Soi 2, Sarasin Road, between Rajadamri Road and Langsuan Road, west of Lumpini Park AiMbike, 62/10 Soi Chaengwattana-Pakkred17, Chaeng Wattana Road, opposite Central Chaeng Wattana Department store Craig's List Thailand Types Available All types are available, including very expensive, for example a 300,000 THB high-performance model at Pro Bike. Rough Pricing 2,500 THB - 10,000 THB (Low Range) 7,000 THB - 24,000 THB (foldable/mountain) 25,000 THB - 300,000 THB (high end) Cycling in Lumpini Park Lumpini Park is large with many wide paths and roads with little to no traffic; there are many canals, lots of greenery, a few snack bars, and several areas with tables and benches. The park allows bicycling from 10:00 - 15:00 seven days a week. There are security guards to enforce these hours. The nearest train station to Lumpini Park is the Silom station on both the MRT and BTS lines, at the south west corner of the park. Elevated Pedestrian and Bicycle Walkway This metal structure is about 3 to 5 metres or more above ground level. It is about one kilometre long, starting at the base of Sukhumvit Soi 10 and ending at the north-east corner of Lumpini Park. It is quite wide, maybe 10 meters, and is divided into a pedestrian part and a bicycle part. The times that I have been on it, it was almost totally empty with never more than 5 people walking and one cyclist; it seems most people are unaware of its existence. Stairways up to the overpass have a ramp to allow bicycles to be pushed or ridden up, but they are a bit steep; you will need strong legs and/or a multi-gear bike to ride up. If you use this overpass to get to Lumpini, you end up at the intersection of Sarasin Road and Wireless Road. The gate to Lumpini is to the left (south), about 60 or 70 meters along Wireless Road, just past the school. Conclusion For the intrepid, bicycling in Bangkok offers an attractive alternative to walking or incurring the cost and lack of spontaneity or control of using taxis, motorbikes, and tuk tuks. Bicycling is very good for short-range shopping trips or getting to know the local neighborhood. Consider it as a sort of 'high-speed' walking with the option to actually walk, if so desired. With the allowance of foldable bicycles on MRT (subway), BTS (SkyTrain elevated railway), riverboats, and buses, the same advantages can be had for long-range trips or trips anywhere in Thailand. Doug Anderson is the author of Speak Easy Thai, Windows software that teaches Thai vocabulary, and WebMaster of Learn a Language Faster. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Douglas_Anderson

Each year, American Citizens travel abroad and meet the love of their life. Unfortunately, it can be a time consuming process to take a loved one back to the United States of America. The following article looks at the United States Immigration issues connected with a US Tourist visa application submitted on behalf of a Citizen of the Kingdom of Thailand. The United States Tourist Visa can be a difficult travel document to obtain for the wife, husband, fiance, girlfriend, boyfriend, or significant other of a United States Citizen. So Americans become exasperated or upset by the fact that United States tourist visa applications are often denied by the Consular Officers at the United States Embassy in Bangkok or the United States Consulate-General in Chiang Mai. In most cases, once the applicant (or the applicant's sponsor) is advised regarding the relevant law, the reason for application denial is almost self-evident. The American Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) delineates clear rules about how Consular Officers should view visa applications and applicants. Pursuant to section 214( of the INA, a Consular Officer must presume that all applicants for non-immigrant visas are, in reality, intending immigrants. To be more specific, in the case of United States tourist visa applications the Consular Officers are required to presume that anyone applying for a Tourist visa is, in fact, an undisclosed immigrant. The officer must be completely convinced that an applicant is not an undisclosed intending immigrant in order for the statutory presumption under section 214( to be overcome. In cases where a Thai applicant has an American boyfriend, fiance, or husband the presumption of immigrant intent is not easily overcome which leads to a situation in which the tourist visa applicant will likely be denied. In some instances, the US Citizen counterpart is resident in the Kingdom of Thailand. In these scenarios, overcoming the legal presumption of immigrant intent may be easier as the Consular Officer may view the American's residency in the Kingdom of Thailand as a strong mitigating factor that would make the Thai applicant return. That being said, these adjudications are essentially based upon the Officer's discretion as well as the unique set of facts in each case and therefore any hypothesizing about a Consular Officer's probable decisions would be an exercise in mere speculation. For those interested in taking a Thai loved one back to the United States to reside, the US Tourist Visa is not the correct travel document for this purpose. Even still, US Citizens should look to the K-1 visa, the K-3 visa, or the immigrant marriage visas (CR-1 or IR-1) as a lawful method of bringing a Thai loved one to the USA. A word of caution: to those who would use dishonesty or subterfuge to obtain desired immigration benefits be warned that use of such tactics would likely result in unforeseen complications as the Consular Officers at US Embassies and Consulates abroad are highly skilled at detecting misrepresentations and a material misrepresentation of fact in a visa application could lead to a finding that the applicant is inadmissible to the United States. Further, it is becoming more and more obvious that Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Officers are on the lookout for those using B2 tourist visas to immigrate to the United States of America through subterfuge. If a CBP officer finds that one is an undisclosed immigrant they can place the traveler in expedited removal proceedings. After removal, the traveler would be barred from reentering the USA for a statutorily prescribed period of time. Ben Hart is an attorney from the United States. He currently acts as Managing Director of Integrity Legal (Thailand) Co. Ltd. Contact them at 1-877-231-7533, +66 (0)2-266-3698, or info@integrity-legal.com. See them on the web at: US Tourist Visa Thailand or K1 Visa Thailand Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ben_Hart