Travel Forums

Forums are great place to ask questions about your travel plans. Many people on the forums have already traveled to where you're going. Don't forget to search the forum and read older posts, many questions have already been answered!

Guide Books 

Guides are a great to read before leaving, on arrival and during your travels. Most will have history, culture, do's & don'ts sections. So study up and learn as much as possible. If the books have a language section, try learning the basic (Hello, Thank you, Good Bye etc), the locals will love it!

Whilst guide books are great, don't be afraid to leave it in your bag and explore! Remember a guide book is just that, it is NOT a bible!

Blogs

There are literally millions of travel blogs out, many written by travelers currently on the road. So search and find the ones relevant to your travels.

Travel Companies

Many travel companies publish glossy books outlining their tours. Generally speaking, these companies travel to the popular and best towns with in a given country, helping you to plan a route or get idea's on what to see and what to miss.

On The Road

One of the best sources of information is other travelers and Locals. Having a chat over beer or fruit shake you can learn plenty just by listening. Find out what's good, how much things are, good hostels, how to get there, cheap eats and much more.

Wing It!

This is one of the greatest and most full filling ways to travel. Pick a destination and go! It's not for everyone, but it's a great way to travel. No plans, no commitments. Just go with the wind.

Major travel destinations of Charlottetown

Since Charlottetown is situated in the eastern Canada, it gets visitors from other provinces and central Canada. Many people from North United States also come to see this place. It is famous for tours as it has a central location in the province and many other services.

The major attraction of the city is it's street scape. The major Victorian era houses, buildings and the centrally planned downtown core of the streets make the city look very beautiful for a tourist. The waterfront project developed in recent times is another attraction of the city.

There are many tourist attractions in this city but the major attractions of the city which are famous among the tourists are

The provincial legislature

The provincial legislature is one of the major attractions of the city and it is situated at Province House. It hosts the Charlottetown Conference and serves as the Founder Hall. It is a railway maintenance building which was developed recently and it hosts an innovative and interactive history trip and takes the tourist through a trip of Canadian history showing it's development throughout the years and it's development as a nation.

The Confederation Center of Arts

The Confederation Center of Arts is a popular place for art lovers. It is very famous for it's showcase of theater plays. The live theater includes plays and also the Charlottetown Festival during summer months. The center is also famous for it's national art gallery which was acclaimed internationally. Anne of Green Gables - The Musical is the longest running musical here and it is the most popular musical of Canada.

It is a great travel destination for tourists from around the world. Since it is situated at the central part of Canada, every other places of Canada are very easy to travel from this place. A new cruise ship terminal is under construction in this city and once it's completion, it will make the city a more attractive destination for the tourists.

Situated mostly in the Himalayan mountains, it is famously described as the paradise on Earth, Jammu and Kashmir shares a border with the states of Himachal Pradesh and Punjab to the south, Azad Kashmir to the west and the People's Republic of China to the north and east. Jammu and Kashmir is home to several valleys such as the Kashmir Valley, Tawi Valley, Chenab Valley, Poonch Valley, Sind Valley and Lidder Valley.

Kerala

Kerala is located at the southern part of the Indian peninsula. The tagline Kerala- God's Own Country has been widely used in Kerala's tourism promotions and soon became synonymous with the state. Its most known tourist attraction is the "backwaters" region, which comprises an extensive network of interlocking rivers, lakes, and canals that centre on Alleppey, Kumarakom, and Punnamada. There are many ancient temples and shrines to be visited in this beautiful place. The annual boat ride will give you a once in a life time experience.

Goa

Renowned for its sunny beaches, temples and world heritage architecture, Goa is visited by hundreds of thousands of international and domestic tourists each year. It is one of the most developed states of India. You will get to see a lot of Portugal architecture. You would find the best of the best accommodation in Goa, provided you trip is well planned. Adventure sports lovers would be in for a treat. The party scene is pretty wild over here and the spirits are much cheaper too. The Bom Jesus cathedral is another famous attraction in Goa.

Manali

One of the most beautiful Hill Station in India, near the northern end of the Kullu Valley. It was the home for the seven sages or the Saptarshi. It offers hot springs, spectacular religious shrines and temples, Tibetan Buddhist temples, and trekking and adventure sports in the surrounding mountains. It is here that you will find the best quality of dope in the world.

Rajasthan

To get a taste of the royal lifestyle, visit Rajasthan (literal meaning "Land of the Kings"). You will get to see the extremes of all the worlds. It has The Great Indian Desert; Forts with absolutely marvelous architecture; Food that would make you eat four times your appetite and a history that would leave you mesmerized. You would immediately fall in love with the local culture and their colorful dressing.

Taj Mahal

It is home of India's most visited site, the Taj Mahal is one of the 7 wonders of the modern world. It's rightly described as the epitome of love.

Varanasi

Hinduism's holiest city, Varanasi is described as the Holy city of India or the city of Temples. Here in Varanasi, every nook and corner has a legend and every road has a great story to recite. Get a taste of Uttar Pradesh, get a taste of real India.

Location

In the northwest corner of piedmont park in the heart of midtown.

You can enter by car or on foot from Piedmont Avenue at the pardon between14thstreet and Monroe dr., or use MARTA train.

Disabled Facilities

All areas are accessible to visitors with disabilities but strollers have to be left outside the Faqua conservatory.

International Visitors Facilities

30-minute audio tour of the Faqua conservatory in five languages:German, French, Spanish, Japanese, and English they are available at the museum shop for$2only.

Times of Availability

April-October (Tuesday-Sunday from9am to7pm)

November - March (Tuesday-Sunday from9am to6pm)

Closed on Mondays and all days thanks giving,Christmas and New Year's Day.

Prices

Best prices are $10 for adults $7 for seniors $5 for students and free for children under the age of six.

Annual membership (individuals):$40

Annual membership (families):$60

Must See

1. Museum shop: It opens at 10 am filled with grand collections of garden books, hard to find garden supplies, seeds, bulbs, wedding gifts, jewelry , wind chimes and greenhouse live plants such as orchids, exotic succulents, ferns, carnivorous and beautiful house plants plus much more other stuff.

2. Sheffield botanical library: Holds over 3000 books and more than 60 periodicals on all aspects pf gardening and horticulture, the books cant be removed or checked out.

Special Events

You can rent the magnificent garden for private parties, weddings and co-operate meetings.

Every month you can witness the succulent blooming of a number of exotic flowery plants.

Hot spots

1. Indoor glass gardens.

2. Outdoor breathtaking gardens.

3. Children's garden: with water play area, mazes, slides, crawl thru caterpillar, beehive, gnomes, and dinosaur with eggs to discover in the sand.

4. Niki De Phalle exhibit: beautiful gardens , forests, exotic birds and many sculptures for kids to climb and play with.

5. Orchid exhibit: you might find it a bit expensive but it's worth it you will see rare kinds of orchids and all other kinds of colorful velvety magical orchids.

6. Chihueli exhibit: A famous exhibit that contains 70 pieces of gall sculptures that will amaze you and sweep you off your feet don't miss it because it opens just one night per week.

In the end I can only tell you if you don't believe me come see for yourself and thank me later.

• Hello/Good morning/afternoon. Sa-wa-dee kap(ka)
• How are you? Sa-by-dee-my kap(ka)
• I'm fine thank you. Sa-by-dee kap(ka)
• Thank you. Kop khun kap(ka)
• Thank you very much. Kop khun mak
• My name is …… Pom(chan) cheur ……
• What is your name? Khun cheur a-lie
• I don't understand. Pom(chan) my-cow-jy
• I understand. Cow-jy kap(ka)
• Do you speak any English? Poot pa-sa Angrit dye-my
• Excuse me/I'm sorry Kor-tort kap(ka)
• Never mind/It doesn't matter My-pen-rye
• 'Quickly!' Lee-ow! Lee-ow!
• 'Slowly!' Cha-cha kap(ka)
• Goodbye La-gorn kap(ka)
• See you again. Pop-gan-my kap(ka)
• Yes. Chy/kap(ka)
• No. My-chy kap(ka)
• I like this. Pom(chan) shawp nee
• I don't like this. Pom(chan) my-shawp nee
• Beautiful. Soo-eye! Kap(ka)
• Thailand is beautiful. Pra-tet Thai soo-eye!
• Can I have this please? Kor-nee kap(ka)
• Stop! Yoot!
• I don't want any thank you. My-ow! kap(ka)
• It is hot today isn't it? Wan-nee lorn-na
• Can you help me please? Khun choo-ay pom(chan) dy-my
• 'HELP!' "Choo-ay! doo-ay!"
• I'm tired Pom(chan) ner-ry!
• I want to sleep Hong-norn kap(ka)
• I'm drunk Pom(chan) mao
• I'm very drunk Pom(chan) mao-mak
• Good luck Chock-dee
• Cheers (as in drinking) Chon gee-ow!

Opposites

• Expensive Pang Cheap Took! 
• Big Yai Small Lek 
• Like Shawp Don't like My-shawp 
• Want Ow! Don't want My-ow! 
• Wet Bee-ak Dry Haeng 
• Sit Nang Stand Yurn 
• Drink Deurm Eat Gin 
• Come Maa Go Bye 
• Drunk Mao Sober My-mao 
• Strong Keng Weak Awn 
• Young Awn Old (people) Gair Old (things) Gow! 
• Fat Oo-un Skinny Pawm 
• Thick Naah Thin Bang 
• Near Gly! Far Yoo-gly! 
• Fast Lee-ow! Slow Cha-cha
• Day Wan Night Gan-kuern!
• Clean Sa-at Dirty Sok-a-pok
• Delicious/Tasty A-loy Not tasty My-a-loy
• Good Dee Bad My-dee
• Beautiful Soo-eye! Ugly Na-gleeut!
• Soft Nim! Hard Kaang
• Wrong Pit! Right (Correct) Took
• Left Sye Right Kwaa
• Noisy Noo-uk-hoo Quiet (silent) Nee-ap! Quiet (tranquil) Sang-up!
• Adult Poo-yai! Child Dek!
• Nice smell Homm Bad smell Men!
• Hot (temp.) Lawn Cold (temp) Now
• Hot (spicy) Pet Cold ('Things') Yen

Person to Person - Phrases

• What is your name? Khun cheur a-lie
• My name is… Pom(chan) cheur …...
• I come from (Country). Pom(chan) maa-jaak (Country)
• How old are you? Are-you-tao-rye-pee
• You are beautiful (to female) Khun soo-eye!
• You are very pretty (to female) Khun soo-eye! mak
• You are handsome (to male) Khun law-mak
• You have beautiful eyes Daa-khun soo-eye!
• I like your hair Pom(chan)shorp pom-kong-khun
• Do you have a boy/girlfriend? Khun mee-fairn ler-yang
• What would you like to drink? Durm a-lie
• Where do you work? Khun tam-ngarn you!-tee-nye
• Do you like this/that? Khun shorp-nee/nan! my
• I like you Pom(chan) shorp khun
• Do you like me? Khun shorp pom(chan) my
• You look sexy Khun doo sek-see! jing-jing
• Are you happy? Mee kwaam-suk-my
• Would you like to dance? Ten-ram doo-eye! Gan-my
• I am having a good time Pom(chan) sanuk-mak-mak
• Shall we go somewhere else? By tee-oo-en! Gan my
• I would like to stay with you Pom(chan) yak-yoo-gup khun
• Do you have a condom? Khun mee-condom-my
• I have a condom Pom(chan) mee-condom
• 'Let's go!' Ba!/By-lee-ow!
• Show me Cow doo-noi

Person to Person - Words

• Cute Na-lak 
• Mouth Baahg
• Beautiful Soo-eye!
  
• Neck Core
• Clever Cha-laad 
• Hand Murr
• Sexy Sek-see 
• Legs Kaah
• Want Ow! 
• Backside Doot!
• Don't want My-ow!
  
• Dance Den!
• Kiss (on cheek) Hom 
•  Kiss (lips) Joop
• Love Rak/Lak 
• Hug Gord
• Smile Yim 
•  Eyes Daa
• Happy Quaam-suk 
• Sad Saow
• 50/50 Ha-sip ha-sip 
• So-so Choy-choy
• Later Tee-lang!
  
• Now Dee-o-nee!
• Go away! By-lee-ow! 
• Sit Nang
• Female (adult) Poo-ying 
• Male (adult) Poo-chy

Eating and Drinking - Phrases

• I am hungry Pom(chan) hue
• I am thirsty Pom(chan) hue nahm
• Do you have ……? Mee …… my
• Can I have ……? Kor ……
• Can I have this please? Kor nee kap(ka)
• I don't like spicy food Pom(chan) my-shorp pet
• No chilli please My-ow! pet
• What is this? Nee a-lie
• This is hot! (spicy) Nee pet-mak
• This is delicious A-loy jing-jing!
• That smells good Hom-mak-mak
• I am vegetarian Pom(chan) gin-jay
• I am vegetarian (but eat eggs) Pom(chan) mang-sa-wih-rad
• Do you have vegetarian food? Mee a-han-jay-my
• Is this vegetarian? Nee-jay-my
• I am full Pom(chan) im-mak
• Can I have the bill please? Kep-tang kap(ka)
• Excuse me Kor-tort
• Can I have a beer please? Kor bee-a kap(ka)
• Can I have some water please? Kor narm kap(ka)
• Where is the toilet? Hong-narm-tee-ny kap(ka)
• Thank you Kop-khun-kap(ka)
• Goodnight Sa-wa-dee-kap(ka)
• Goodbye La-gorn

Eating and Drinking - Words

• Knife Meet 
• Ashtray Tik-ya-boo-lee
• Fork Som 
• Cigarettes Boo-lee!
• Spoon Chorn 
• Lighter Fy-chek
• Chopsticks Da-gee-ab!
  
• Plate Jan
• Bottle Koo-at!
  
• Bowl Chahm
• Glass Gee-ow!! 
• Cup Too-aye!
• Water Nahm 
• Beer Bee-a
• Cola Cola-cola
  
• Ice Nahm-keng
• Tea (hot) Chaa-lawn 
• Tea (cold) Chaa-yen
• Coffee (hot) Ga-fay-lawn 
•  Coffee (cold) Ga-fay-yen
• Tomato sauce Soss ma-kra-tet! 
•  Salt Glue-ah
• Sugar Naam-dan
  
• Milk Nom

Eating and Drinking - Foods

• Fish Blah 
• Cod Blah-gow
• Tuna Too-na!
  
• Shark Blah-cha-laam
• Squid Blah-meurk! 
• Oyster Hoy!-nang-rom
• Shellfish Hoy! 
• Crab Boo
• Lobster Gung-mang-gon 
• Prawn Gung!
• Beef Ner-ah!
  
• Duck Pet
• Pork Moo 
• Chicken Guy
• Plain Om'ltte Kye-jee-ow
• Fried egg Kye-dow
• Egg (Scram'd) Kye-kon
• Egg Kye
• Stuffed Omelette Kye-yat-sy
• Bread Ka-nom-pang
  
• Butter Ner-ee!
• Chilli Prik
  
• Jam Yam
• Sticky rice Cow-nee-ow 
• Rice Cow

Shopping - Phrases

• How much is this? Nee tao-ry kap(ka)
• This is pretty Nee soo-eye! mak
• I like this Pom(chan) shorp nee
• I don't like this Pom(chan) my-shorp! nee
• Can I look at this/that please? Kor-doo-nee/nan noy
• Do you have bigger/smaller sizes? Mee-yai/lek-gwaa-my
• Do you have different colours? Mee-ly-see-my
• Can I try this on please? Pom(chan)-lorng-dye-my
• Do you have a bag please? Mee-tung-my-kap(ka)
• Can I pick it up later? Faag-why-gorn dee-ow-ma-ow
• Do you have …… ? Mee …… my
• Can you make it a little cheaper? Rot-la-car dye-my
• That's too expensive for me Pang-noy-kap(ka)
• Can I have this please? Kor-nee-kap(ka)
• I'm just looking Chom doo tao-nun
• I'd like …… Don-gahn …...

Shopping - Clothing

• Clothing/clothes Sur-pah
• Shirt/blouse Seur-ra!
• T-shirt Seur-shirt
• Vest/singlet Seur-gam
• Dress Choot-sek
• Skirt Gra-bong
• Trousers Gang-geng
• Shorts Gang-geng-ka-san
• Suit Soot!
• Jacket Seur-a-kum!
• Hat Moo-wack!

Shopping - Toiletries

• Shampoo Yaah-sa-pom
• Hair Gel Jel-sy-pom
• Soap Sa-boo
• Razor Tee-gorn-noo-at!
• Perfume Nahm-hom
• Toothbrush Bleng-see-fan
• Toothpaste Yaah-see-fan
• Flannel Pah-chet-naa
• Sanitary towel Pah-ahn-a-my!
• Tampons Luke-jee-up
• Deodorant Low-on
• Toilet paper Gaa-daat-cham-la!
• Hair conditioner Nahm-man-sy-pom
• Hair dye Yaah-yom-pom
• Nail polish Yaah-ta-lep!
• Brush Braang
• Air freshener Nahm-yaah-blap-a-gahd
• Comb Wee
• Condom Con-dom
• Tissue Gaa-daat Tih-shoo!
• Sun block cream Low-shan-gan-daird!
• Mosquito repellant Low-shan-gan-yung!

Shopping - Footwear

• Shoes/sandals Lorng-tao
• Socks Tung-tao
• Stockings Tung-nong
• Flip-flops Lorng-tao-deh!
• Training shoes Lorng-tao-gee-laah

Shopping - Jewellery

• Gold Torng
• Silver Ngun!
• Necklace Soy-core
• Earrings Dum-hoo
• Bracelet Gam-lie-murr
• Ring Wern
• Watch Naa-lee-gaa!
• Sapphire Nin
• Diamond Pet
• Emerald Yok
• Opal Mook-dah
• Ruby Tap-tim

Shopping - Miscellaneous

• Swimwear Choot!-wye-nam
• Swim goggles Wen-daah-wye-nam!
• Spectacles Wen-daah!
• Copy (not genuine) Kong-lee-un-bearp!
• Leather Nang-sat
• Shop Raahn
• Market Ta-laahd
• Silk My!
• Cotton Ko-tohn!
• Beach towel Paah-Chet-doo-ah!
• Beach mat Sur-rah!
• Money Ngun
• Wallet/purse Ga!-pow-tang
• Handbag Ga!-pow-tur
• Rucksack Bay-sa-pie!
• Suitcase Ga-pow-dern-tang!

Medical and Health Words

• Ambulance Fie-kor-tang
• Hospital Lorng-pie-a-baan
• Doctor More!
• Pain Jep!
• Ache Boo-at!
• Headache Boo-at!-hoo-a
• Stomach ache Boo-at!-tong
• Dizzy Wee-an-hoo-a!
• (To) Vomit Oo-ahg!
• Diarrhea Tong-see-ah
• Tablets Yaah-met!
• Medicine Yaah
• Pharmacy Laahn-kye-yaah
• Emergency Huck-chern

Body Parts

• Head Hoo-ah! 
• Neck Kor
• Eye Daah 
• Nose Ja!-mook
• Mouth Baahg! 
• Teeth Fan
• Tongue Lin! 
• Arm Kairn
• Hand Murr 
•  Back Lang
• Chest Kang-naah 
•  Leg Kaah
• Spine Ga-dook-sa-lang
  
• Foot Tao

Colours

• Black See-dam 
• Brown See-nam-dam
• Blue See-fah 
• Green See-kee-ow!
• Gold See-torng
  
• Grey See-tao
• Orange See-som
  
• Red See-daeng
• Pink See-shampoo
  
•  Silver See-ngun
• White See-cow 
• Yellow See-ler-rang!
• Purple See-moo-ung
  
•  Khaki Kaa-kee

Numbers

• 1 Nung 
• 2 Song 
• 3 Saahm 
• 4 See 
• 5 Ha 
• 6 Hock 
• 7 Jet 
• 8 Paed 
• 9 Gow
• 10 Sip
• 11 Sip-et 
• 12 Sip-song 
• 13 Sip-saahm 
• 14 Sip-see 
• 15 Sip-ha 
• 16 Sip-hock 
• 17 Sip-jet 
• 18 Sip-pad 
• 19 Sip-gow 
• 20 Yee-sip 
• 21 Yee-sip-et 
• 22 Yee-sip-song 
• 23 Yee-sip-saahm
• 24 Yee-sip-see
• 25 Yee-sip-hah
• 30 Saahm-sip
• 40 See-sip
• 50 Ha-sip
• 60 Hock-sip
• 70 Jet-sip
• 80 Pad-sip
• 90 Gow-sip
• 100 Nung-roy
• 200 Song-roy
• 300 Saahm-roy
• 400 See-roy
• 500 Ha-roy
• 600 Hock-roy
• 700 Jet-roy
• 800 Pad-roy
• 900 Gow-roy
• 1,000 Nung-pan
• 10,000 Nung-meurn
• 100,000 Nung-sen
• 1,000,000 Nung-lan

Animals

• Dog Maa 
• Scorpion Maleng-bong!
• Cat May-ow! 
• Lizard Gin-gaah
• Bird Nok 
• Bat Kan-cow
• Buffalo Kwy 
• Mosquito Yung!
• Snake Ngoo 
• Butterfly Pee-ser-rah
• Spider Mang-mum 
• Ant Mot!
• Monkey Ling 
• Fish Blah!
• Elephant Chang
  
• Squid Blah-muhg!

Time

• Second Win-a-tee
• Minute Na-tee
• Hour Sher-mong!
• Day Wan
• Night Gan-kuern
• Week Ah-tit
• Month Deu-un
• Year Bee
• Today Wan-nee
• Tomorrow Prung-nee
• Yesterday Moo-wan-nee
• Next week A-tit-nah
• Last night Moo-a-kuern
  

It can be said without fear of contradiction that shopping in Thailand is a wonderful experience!

Naturally the cheaper cost of the vast majority of things in Thailand adds a certain "kid in a sweetshop" kind of mentality, but it is far more than just cheapness that makes shopping in Thailand such an adventure.

Quite simply, shopping in Thailand is FUN!

An early morning trip to the local market swamps all the senses, mixing strange exotic smells with the wonderful variety of shapes, sizes and colours of the produce on sale... some recognizable now that U.K. supermarkets import from all around the world, but many still wonderfully unrecognizable.

The smiles and banter of the stall owners, and their attempts to speak English (quite often far better than our attempts to speak Thai!) only add to the cross-cultural experience that is shopping in Thailand.

I would encourage every visitor to Thailand to make that dawn excursion to the local market, and to try (and buy) something you have never seen, or tasted, before. Just don't forget your camera!

Even the more everyday, mundane type of shopping expeditions - for gifts and souvenirs etc - can be just as much fun. However, many tourists these days seem to be under the impression that bartering and haggling with the seller to lower the cost of something, is both a requirement as well as some kind of a "battle"… and a battle which they must win at all costs!

In actual fact it would be difficult to get any further away from the reality of the situation, which is that the haggling and bantering should be acted out as a game… a game which should be played in fun, and with a huge beaming smile on the faces of each of the "contestants"!

This game is an unusual one in the sense that there should be no losers, but two "winners", each finishing the game still in possession of their smiles!

As far as Thais are concerned, haggling, and its accompanying banter, is an opportunity to spend a little time having a bit of fun, ('sanuk') and getting to know someone. It is most certainly not a battle, and, if at any point it becomes serious, the whole purpose of the game is lost… along with the goodwill and the smile of the seller!

At the risk of sounding a little patronizing, it is most likely that what you carry in your purse or wallet whilst shopping is considerably more than an average Market stall holder's income for a fair few months… so… if you have had a bit of fun, and got the price of something down a little bit… is it really worth losing the goodwill and smile of that stall holder by trying to push for another 5 baht reduction?

I hope that you can see that it is not.

In many places haggling is actually not appropriate, the price for something being "fixed price", as many Thais would say. In these situations what you see on the ticket is what you pay.

This "fixed price" situation is common in many shops, stores and food markets/stalls, where haggling would simply be met with a stare and a shake of the head.

A fairly basic "rule of thumb" for us foreigners ('ferang' or "felang" in Thai) to follow, is that the stalls and small shops which are specifically aimed at the tourist market (nick-nacks, bracelets, clothing etc) are normally open to a bit of gentle haggling, whereas the stalls and small stores aimed at providing everyday foods and goods to the local Thai population are generally not.

Whatever the situation, remember that it is supposed to be FUN!

Prison Visits

Sadly, there are many foreigners that inhabit Thai prisons up and down the country. Many are serving long or life-sentences related to drugs.

If you want to visit someone in a prison in Thailand, there is plenty of information help and advice on the internet. It is a relatively straightforward thing to do, and most foreign prisoners would welcome a visit, if for no other reason than the change of routine that a prison visit would bring.

Look on the website belonging to "Prisoners Abroad", which has valuable information on foreign prisons. You will also find links to other appropriate websites, some of which have the names and details of foreign prisons. (You will need the name of a prisoner if you wish to visit someone in a Thai prison. It is not possible simply to turn-up and ask to visit "someone British").

Speaking Thai - An Introduction

The Thai language consists almost exclusively of "mono-syllabic" words, and initially may appear to be relatively easy to speak. For example 'Sa-wa-dee' - which is Thai for "hello" or "good morning" and made up of the 3 syllables (Thai words) 'sa', "wa", and "dee". However, as well as having an "alphabet" almost 3 times larger than our own (44 consonants and a whopping 32 vowels!), and sounds that we simply don't have letters for, some Thai words also have up to 5 different ways to pronounce them (using "tones") … each tone giving the word a completely different meaning!

However, don't lose heart, because the majority of words and phrases in this book are very common and, on the whole, will be understood by most Thai people to a great degree if they are pronounced phonetically (exactly as written).

This book uses a direct phonetic system in which you speak exactly what you see. This makes it easier and quicker to learn and is therefore ideal for those who are on a short holiday in Thailand and wish only to dabble in the language.

The fact that you may not be pronouncing words 100% correctly does not detract from the fact that you are making the effort (which will be greatly appreciated) and that, to a greater or lesser extent, you will be understood.

To discuss and teach the intricacies and complexities of the Thai language is not what this book is about. This book is meant only as a very basic introduction to the Thai language, to give a little background on Thailand, and attempt to encourage you to speak a few Thai phrases whilst (and this is the most important bit) having fun speaking them to Thais and NOT being embarrassed about your efforts!

Notes on the phonetics used in this book.

The separate sounds (syllables) which go to make up a Thai phrase are separated by "-" (a hyphen). Where a word of more than one syllable is not hyphenated, the syllables which make up the word are pronounced quickly after each other. As an example, we can use the English two-syllable word "today", made up from the syllables "to" and "day" which are joined together.

All syllables and words in this book are pronounced at normal conversational speed, unless followed by "!" (exclamation mark), in which case the syllable(s) or word(s) underlined are spoken quickly. As an example we can use the English word "Boo!" (the underline and exclamation mark working together to come up with a word similar to the one used to scare friends you have just sneaked up on!).

'Double' letters denote an extended sound, for example the "oo" as in "cool", and the "ee" as in "feel".

The letter "i" denotes the sound it has in the word "pit".

The letter "g" denoted the sound it has in the word "gun".

Apart from the examples above, the rest of the letters and words in the language sections are pronounced exactly as seen, and if you see a phonetically written Thai word that looks the same as an English word, then you can pronounce it exactly the same! (e.g. "my", dye', "loo", "see", "song", "cap", "pop" etc).

Once you have learned the syllables which go to make up a phrase, try to "roll them together" just as we would in English conversation.

As an example we can use the question “How are you?” which is made up of 3 separate words/sounds/syllables. In normal conversation we would not pronounce it “How… are… you…?” with obvious gaps between the words, but "roll" the words together.

In this respect the Thai language is similar, so the sounds which go together to make up the question “How are you?” in the Thai language (“Sa-bye-dee-my?”) are also rolled together.

Politeness

The Thai language has a polite particle which has no direct translation or meaning in English, but can often be heard spoken at the end of a sentence or phrase.

The particle spoken by males is 'Kap', whilst the particle 'Ka' is spoken by females.

Whilst these particles are sometimes omitted in this book, they should always be used at the end of a sentence or phrase when speaking. Therefore the phrase for "good morning" or "hello", for example, should be “Sa-wa-dee-Kap” if you are male, and “Sa-wa-dee-Ka” if female.

In the language sections, the female particle (where shown) will be in brackets thus… “Sa-wa-dee-kap(ka)”. It is better to over-use the polite particle than under-use it, so don't forget to put it at the end of every sentence or phrase.

Me, myself and I

The Thai language has many alternatives for the word "I" (me, myself), but the word most commonly used and understood is 'Pom' (for males), and 'Chan' (for females).

As an example, we can use the phrase "I am hungry" which would be “Pom-hue” for males ('hue' meaning "hungry"), and “Chan-hue” for females.

Putting the correct polite particle at the end of this phrase would then give “Pom-hue-kap” for males, and “Chan-hue-ka” for females.

Summary!

'I' (me) for males is 'POM', and the polite particle is 'KAP'.

'I' (me) for females is 'CHAN', and the polite particle is 'KA'.

Motorbikes and cars can be rented in most areas that are popular with tourists. The motorbikes that are available vary from 100cc/125cc fully automatic scooter type bikes (no gears or clutch-simply twist the throttle and off you go) - to the semi-automatic moped-type bikes (foot change gear lever but no clutch to worry about) - and then up to the fully-fledged motorbikes that we are more familiar with in the U.K. which can range anywhere in engine size between 250cc and 1000cc.

The fully automatic and semi-automatic bikes can be rented for as little as a couple of pounds per day. The bigger bikes are obviously more expensive - depending on their engine size.

Motorbikes are terrific for local sightseeing and shopping trips, being economical as well as easy to park, and they are by far the most popular mode of transport…

However… … a very serious word of caution!

The code of conduct that we are used to seeing in the U.K. (as written in The Highway Code, and enforced by police) simply does NOT exist in Thailand... where traffic rules are rarely enforced, particularly in the more rural areas.

Driving tests are NOT mandatory in Thailand, nor is having a driving licence, and it is quite common to see children as young as 10 years old driving around on motorbikes!

Although there is a (sort of) road tax license, many bikes have never had one since the day they were bought, and you will even see numerous motorbikes and cars driving around with no license plates!

Although the general rule of driving is "drive on the left" (as in the U.K.), there is an unwritten clause that goes something like "…unless it is inconvenient to do so, in which case drive on whichever side is easier for you"!

It is a very common sight to see motorbikes and cars heading towards you on the "wrong" side of the road simply because they are "not going too far and it makes things easier"!

Cars and lorries, as well as motorbikes, drive at break-neck speeds (ignoring any speed restrictions); tail-gate each other with only inches between them; overtake on blind bends; overtake on the inside-'undertake'? -drive at night with no lights; rarely use indicators etc!

Add to this general mayhem a pretty relaxed attitude to drink-driving and a total disregard for other road users, and you STILL only have around 25% of the full picture!

If I am painting a rather bad picture of driving conditions in Thailand, it is with just cause. Unfortunately, many tourists get to see the inside of a Thai hospital for entirely the wrong reasons (are there any "right" ones?), and, sadly, some never get to make the journey home.

In short, driving a car and, in particular, riding a motorbike in Thailand, should only be undertaken by experienced drivers/riders, as it can be extremely dangerous to your health!

If, against all common sense, you do decide to rent a motorbike, be aware that MOTs also don't exist in Thailand, and that rented motorbikes particularly rarely receive any preventative maintenance or get serviced regularly. They are (sometimes) only washed and cleaned before being handed over to the next "rentee".

If you are not able to competently check the motorbike over yourself, get someone who can (ask around in your resort/hotel). Wheels, tyres, brakes, steering, lights and chain adjustment should be checked before a leg is cocked over any machine.

NEVER be tempted to rent a bike that is outside your experience. If you haven't ridden a motorbike before, Thailand is most definitely not the place to learn!

If you have only limited experience, you should not be renting a bike anyway, but if you do, stick to the smaller fully automatic bikes. If you have always wanted to ride a "big" bike but never have, don't be tempted to rent one in Thailand… stick to the smaller bikes, and ALWAYS wear a helmet! If you are not offered a helmet, ask for one!

Once on the road, drive carefully, have eyes in the back of your head (i.e.: use your mirrors!) and be prepared for that huge cement lorry coming towards you on the wrong side of the road around the next blind bend!

It is very rare for motorbikes to have any insurance included with the rental, and if you damage your bike - or, even worse, cause or be involved in an accident, be prepared to lose a lot of money (even more so if you injure a Thai person)!

TIP!

Take a ride around your local area on a motorbike "Taxi" before you rent a bike. It will give you an idea of both the roads and the way other people ride/drive.

Cars - usually the smaller jeep-type models as opposed to saloon or hatchback cars - can usually also be rented anywhere there are tourists. Sometimes insurance is included, sometimes it is an optional extra, and sometimes it is simply not mentioned. Whatever the situation, seek clarification BEFORE you drive off into the tropical sunset!

It is also a very good idea to take a walk around the car being rented, along with the person you are renting from, before committing yourself or handing any money over. Check the vehicle for scratches and bumps etc, and make a note of them (or take photographs). This ensures you are not held responsible for them when you hand the car back - a common way for the less scrupulous car rental places to supplement rental income from tourists. It is also worth clarifying the petrol/diesel situation. Do you have a full tank to start with? Are you expected to return the car with a full tank?

Also give the car a check over… checking tyres and tyre pressure, lights, brakes etc. If you can't do this, find someone who can!

Again, as per the advice regarding motorbikes… drive carefully, use your mirrors, and be prepared for that cement lorry! It may help to keep in mind the cost of even a very minor accident!

POINT OF INTEREST No. 1

So many tourists have been injured and left with scars after having accidents on motorbikes that these scars have become known as "Thai tattoos".

POINT OF INTEREST No. 2

Some areas in Thailand now test for drug/alcohol levels of people involved in accidents… whether injured or not. If illegal drugs or alcohol are found in your blood/urine, the accident could well be deemed your fault… whether it actually was or not!

Tips on renting a car or motorbike in Thailand.

• Check the brakes, tyres, lights etc before you drive/ride off! If you can't, find someone who can.
• Clarify whether insurance is included or available, if it is-buy it!
• Check for scratches/damage before you drive off.
• Clarify the petrol situation before you drive off.
• Take some time to get used to the car/bike.
• Maintain "Jy yen-yen" at all times!

Be aware that tail-gating is normal behaviour. Do not play the "slam on your brakes to frighten him/her" game! There is the distinct possibility that you will be blamed for the resultant accident… if you survive!

• Use your horn (a short beep) to warn motorbikes that you are about to overtake them.
• Be aware that a car flashing its headlights at you is warning you to get out of the way, and not-as in the U.K.- "inviting" you!
• Don't ever lose your temper or start shouting/gesticulating at another driver/rider (especially if they are Thai). Things could easily and quickly escalate way out of hand if you do.
• Expect the unexpected at all times (particularly that cement lorry!).
• Don't rent a motorbike unless you are an experienced rider.
• Always wear a crash helmet if you are riding a motorbike.
• Stick to the speed limits… even if no-one else does!

Be aware of dogs, holes in the road, bikes on the wrong side of the road, drunk drivers, drivers/riders that don't indicate, drivers/riders that don't know how to drive/ride, AND that cement lorry!

Re: dogs! Be aware that most dogs get out of the way if you sound your horn… I say again… most dogs!

Always wear a crash helmet when riding a motorbike-yes, I know this has already been mentioned, but you'd be amazed how expensive brain scans are… and whether you needed the scan or not, the chances are that if you weren't wearing a helmet, your health insurance is invalid… very, very expensive!

Post Offices

Post Offices in Thailand are very similar to those in the U.K. You queue, hand over your letter/postcard, they tell you how much it costs, you pay, you stick the stamp on, and then you either give it back to them to put in the appropriate sack, or you do it yourself!

On average, a letter or postcard sent by normal mail will take around 10 days to reach the U.K. There is an option which is a little more expensive, but takes only 3 days. The choice is yours!

On the whole, Post Office staff are courteous and friendly, and in the tourist areas, will probably be able to speak some English.

If you need to send things back to the U.K. (parcels and packages etc), you pay by weight, which can, at times prove to be relatively expensive… obviously depending on what you are sending back.

You will need to wrap your goods well… ideally with a layer of plastic as waterproofing... but don't bother addressing it, as you will need to buy an appropriate sized regulation cardboard box at the Post Office in which to send your goods.

When you buy your box, you will also be given a length of string - which you use to securely tie up the box - and sticky labels on which to write the address, description of contents etc.

You have a few choices as far as posting the box is concerned. Normal posting will take approximately 10 days, but there is also a quicker (and more expensive) option which takes around 4/5 days. If you are really in a hurry, there is an even quicker (and even more expensive) option that will take around 2/3 days.

The options available can vary from area to area, so it is always best to ask.

Some Post Offices also offer E-mail facilities-refer to the following section for more details.

Telephones and E-mailing

Unless you are in the more remote parts of Thailand, calling home and E-mailing should not be a problem. The general maxim tends to be… if there are tourists around, there will be a need for E-mailing/telephone facilities.

These facilities can range from a small corner shop with a single computer terminal/phone line, to full blown internet cafes with Broadband and multiple terminals. These days you may even find that your hotel or resort has E-mail/international calling facilities.

Most (if not all) E-mail shops will also offer international calling at fairly cheap rates too.

More and more Post Offices are now offering high speed (usually ADSL) E-mail/internet facilities. However, you will normally have to buy a swipe card which holds credit (usually 100 baht), which can be used in Post Office terminals nationwide. Although you cannot buy less than the 100 baht swipe card, the plus factor is that the charge rate is (at time of press) a whacking 50% cheaper than currently charged by most E-mail shops… which means twice as much time for your money!

If you are a regular internet user or E-mailer, and you happen to be close to a Post Office providing this service, then this is definitely the option to go for. However, you will ONLY be able to surf the net or E-mail at the Post Office outlets… they don't give any access to disk drives or CD drives, so transferring information (pictures from camera to disk, downloads from the internet etc) is not possible. If you wish to do this, the ordinary E-mail/internet shops are the places to go. Some shops already have webcams and microphones installed, making real time video conferencing and "Skype" type calling possible.

Apart from the afore mentioned Skype calling, there are a few more options available to those wishing to call home - apart from the most obvious (and expensive) one, i.e. using your own mobile!

International calling via land-lines has already been covered earlier, however, depending on how frequent your usage is, it may be worth considering buying a Thai SIM card for your mobile phone-assuming that it is unlocked and able to use one. If your phone isn't unlocked, nip into a mobile phone shop (you won't have to walk far!). There are very few mobile phones that cannot be unlocked by a phone shop in Thailand. However, there are particular problems associated with UK mobile phones bought on the "3" network, and also with some Motorola models.

All of the main service providers in Thailand offer "Pay as you go" SIM cards for as little as 5 or so pounds… and they normally have a little credit included too, usually 50 baht.

Just as in the U.K., these SIMs can be topped up with top-up cards which are readily available (7/11 stores, Family Mart stores, mobile phone shops etc).

Both texts and calls to the U.K. are far cheaper than using your own SIM.

If your mobile phone directory is saved to your phone rather than your SIM card, and your phone is unlocked, the change to a Thai SIM is as simple as taking your old SIM card out, and replacing it with your Thai SIM card! Don't forget to keep your U.K. SIM card safe!

If you are thinking about taking advantage of the cheap prices of mobile phones in Thailand, be aware that some may not unlock for use in the U.K., and if you have any problems with any but the well-known brands (Nokia, Motorola etc), they could well be next to impossible to fix under guarantee. Your problems could be even more difficult if you have been unfortunate enough to have been sold a "copy" by a less than scrupulous dealer!

To continue on the "less than scrupulous dealer" subject for a little longer… although it is easy to get most mobile phones unlocked in Thailand, it has been known for those "less than scrupulous dealers" to take genuine parts out of your phone whilst unlocking it, and replace them with cheaper copied parts. The genuine parts can then be sold on for more than the copies that replaced them! With this in mind, it may be best to stay while your phone is unlocked, and not leave it overnight.

Eating and Drinking

If you like food, and especially if you like spicy food (as in chilli), you are in for a real treat in Thailand - although it has to be said that even if you don't like spicy food, you are still in for a treat, as there is a huge choice of non-spicy dishes, and even most of the spicy dishes are as equally delicious without the chilli!

If you are adventurous in your eating habits, you may also want to try some of the more unusual exotic delicacies that Thailand has to offer, such as grasshopper, silk worm cases, spider, grubs, snake, beetles, frogs, lizard etc! The choice varies, depending on which areas in Thailand you are visiting.

However, if your tastes are less adventurous, you can still tickle your taste buds by trying some of the many fruits and vegetables that are available in Thailand. The range of fruits, in particular, is quite staggering, covering the full range from incredibly sweet to incredibly bitter. However, where the Durian fruit fits in I will leave up to you, as opinions differ wildly! Make a point of trying a piece… I guarantee that, one way or the other you will never forget the experience!

If you want to see the range of fruits and vegetables available in Thailand, simply take a walk around your nearest market. Be warned however, most markets open around dawn-some even earlier-so you will need to be up very early!

As in most Asian countries, the meals tend to revolve around either rice or noodles of some sort (and there are a myriad ways of cooking/preparing them both!), but it is the side-dishes that tend to attract most attention, and not just for their taste! Thailand is as famous for its food presentation as it is for its cooking, and you will see foods that have had (in some cases) hours of precise and skilful carving just to look good on your plate before you eat it!

It is no understatement to say that some of the food carving you will see in Thailand could justifiably be called pieces of art!

Vegetarianism/Veganism

Most Westerners tend to assume that Thailand, being essentially a Buddhist Country, revolves around a mainly Vegetarian diet. However, rather surprisingly, being a Vegetarian or Vegan is not quite as easy as most would think (although it is certainly not a problem).

Most meals have a large meat element of some sort or another, and, unless you state otherwise, it is almost certain that you will be assumed to be a meat eater.

However, that said, Vegetarianism automatically comes with a badge of respect, as being something worthy of praise-due to the fact that Lord Buddha himself was Vegetarian.

In Thailand, there are essentially two types of Vegetarian.

The stricter form of vegetarianism not only excludes meat and the eating of any other form of animal, insects etc, but also excludes the consumption of alcohol.

The term used to describe this is "Gin-jay" ('eat-vegetable').

For those who would class themselves as vegetarian, but eat eggs and drink alcohol, the Thai term for this is "Mang-sa-wi-rad!"

Generally speaking, Thai are not familiar with Veganism, therefore Vegans will need to make an extra effort for their requirements to be fully understood.

Whatever your dietary requirements are, once understood, you will find that most Thais will do their best to accommodate your needs.

All Pharmacies in Thailand must have at least one qualified Pharmacist, and those in the more popular holiday destinations will undoubtedly speak very passable English.

On the whole you will find pharmacy staff both friendly and knowledgeable and able to get most prescription drugs - although the more obscure or specialist medications may have to be ordered from a local hospital (or, in a worst case scenario, from Bangkok).

You will find that Thailand has an equivalent of most U.K. prescription or non-prescription drugs, and will dispense these on request with little problem. However, for certain medications the Pharmacist may ask that you see a G.P. and obtain the equivalent of a prescription before dispensing.

Doctors

Unlike the U.K., many of the Doctor's surgeries may only be open for consultation at limited times. The usual reason for this is that the Doctor, as well as having his/her own practice, may also work in other areas, and, in many cases, may also work at a local hospital!

You may even find that the Doctor is actually a senior member of hospital staff, and, in some cases may even be a consultant!

Although this is not the case in every situation, it is surprising to find such highly qualified and respected personnel giving up their valuable time to work at a local level and with local people.

Needless to say then the quality of service, generally speaking, is quite high, particularly in tourist areas, where you can also expect medical staff to speak English to a greater or lesser degree.

Normally a surgery will dispense its own medications on instructions from the Doctor, and - compared to U.K. prices - you will find that they are quite inexpensive.

Hospitals

Much of what has already been said about Doctors can also be said of Thai hospitals too. Many hospitals in the more popular tourist areas will actually be geared-up for foreigners (and their insurance policies!), and some of them provide services that are not just quick and efficient, but would also put many a U.K. National Health hospital to shame!

If you are unfortunate enough to require the services of a hospital whilst on holiday in Thailand, you may (the situation varies from hospital to hospital) have to pay some money up-front (until your policy is checked out to see if you have appropriate cover), or get permission from your insurers (normally a fax). Any money paid up-front can normally be claimed back from the hospital once your policy has been approved by your insurers - assuming you are adequately covered.

Recreational Drugs

This section could easily be summed up using only one word…

DON'T!

However, in all conscience I couldn't leave it at that, and, with a little further clarification will explain why.

If you get caught bringing drugs into Thailand (or out of Thailand for that matter!) you WILL spend time in a Thai prison! Although Thailand still holds the option of executing drug smugglers, normally, for foreigners, this is commuted into a life sentence. In Thailand a life sentence means 50 years - and you will serve 50 years!

Even if you are repatriated back to the U.K. (normally only after 8 years) the arrangement between the U.K. and Thailand is that the remainder of the sentence MUST be served! There is only one other alternative… and that is that you are pardoned by His Majesty the King of Thailand. A pardon is both unlikely and very rare, and most certainly NOT to be counted on as a way out unless you have spent a very long time in prison, or have particular reason to claim clemency - although even then there is absolutely no guarantee of release.

If you get caught in possession of illegal drugs whilst on holiday, you also have a big problem. Forget all the stories about paying on-the-spot fines and getting away with it - the fact of the matter is that these days you will almost certainly be arrested and spend time in a Police Station cell before being moved to a prison , where one of two things will happen:

1. Your lawyer arranges bail for you (normally around the thousand pounds plus mark), and then you have to wait until your case "comes up"… or
2. You stay in prison until your case comes to court (can be up to 5/6 months), where you will be sentenced and/or fined heavily.

Even if you can arrange Bail, the chances are that your passport will be confiscated and you will not be able to leave the country until everything is sorted out. This means - case heard in court, any sentence served, any fine paid, Lawyer's bill paid etc.

You also run the risk of being blacklisted from Thailand, and having notes on your offence linked to your passport number.

Just in case there are not enough exclamation marks and capital letters in the former paragraphs to give you strong hints about how foolish bringing drugs into Thailand is… I will continue with a mention of the now infamous Full Moon Party held every month on Koh Phangan island in the Gulf of Thailand.

Every month a number of foreigners are arrested by under-cover police for possessing/dealing drugs (normally ecstasy, amphetamines, or marijuana). Those arrested are a great boon for Thailand's anti-drug policy, and are quite often paraded on TV. soon after arrest.

Although the U.K. has recently downgraded the offence of possessing marijuana, the fact that you come from a country that has a softer approach cuts absolutely no ice with Thai authorities. If caught, you can expect to spend a LOT of money, and a LOT of time before your life can get back to anything approaching normal, if, indeed it ever will!

• Don't bring any illegal substances into Thailand!
• Don't take any illegal substances out of Thailand!
• Don't indulge yourself whilst on holiday in Thailand - no matter how tempting!
• Don't buy any drugs whilst on holiday in Thailand! Thailand has a lot of under-cover police around and people who will sell you drugs and then inform police for the reward.

Finally - purely for my conscience… don't. It really is not worth the risk.

Money!

Currency in Thailand is the Thai "Baht", and, as with all currencies, exchange rates vary on a day to day basis.

Cheque cards and credit/debit cards are now almost as much a part of Thai life as they are for us in the U.K., and, as such, there is little need to bring much, if any, Thai currency with you on your holiday-isn't technology wonderful?

ATMs (cash points) are a common feature in almost any large town in Thailand - even more so in those that are frequented by tourists. The ATMs in Thailand recognize every major credit/debit card, making the withdrawal of cash (in Thai baht) very easy indeed. However, be aware that although some U.K. banks offer free A.T.M. use whilst abroad, most do not, and there is normally a fixed charge for this service… (at time of press this is around the £2.50 mark).

The ATMs are identical in every respect to those we have in the U.K. except for the names of the representative banks. Simply insert your card as normal and select the "English language" option when it appears on the screen. From then on it is simply a matter of entering the amount you wish to withdraw and waiting the short time it takes to verify your details.

There are only a very few exceptions when your card may not be recognized - for example, ATMs belonging to the smaller banks which may only provide services at a local level. However, these are now few and far between.

Most of the ATMs have a maximum daily amount able to be withdrawn. At time of press this varies between 10,000 baht and 20,000 baht (c150 pounds - 300 pounds), depending on which bank's ATM is used.

Special note!

Just as you would do back in the U.K., take precautions when using an ATM machine. Ensure your "PIN" number is kept secret during use, and don't waste any time in putting both your cash and your card away safely and securely!

As a point of interest, be aware that Thai ATMs dispense the cash first and then give the card back! We tend to be creatures of habit, and in the U.K. the card is given first before the cash… therefore we are in the habit of receiving the cash and then walking away-you would be amazed how many people take their cash and walk away leaving their card behind!

If you need to withdraw more than the daily cash amount allowed by ATMs, you will have to go to one of the major banks to do so. Most banks that have even light contact with tourists will, in all probability, have a member of staff who is able to speak English at a level to understand your request.

Getting your cash is a fairly straightforward process which requires you to show both your passport and your credit/debit card, and normally to fill in a simple form with your personal details. These are then checked by bank staff, and, assuming you have the available funds, your cash is then dispensed.

Internet banking is essentially exactly the same as if you were in the U.K. Simply look for an e-mail centre/shop (you won't have to look far!) and log on as you would normally do.

Again, as per using your ATM card, be aware that others may be able to see you type in your password/security information, as well as see your account details as they are displayed on screen, so taking a little care to keep your details private is in order.

E-mail/internet charges are very cheap compared to U.K. rates. The current charge has remained unchanged for almost 5 years at 1 (one) baht per minute. However, in Bangkok and the other larger towns, the rate can be up to 4/5 baht per minute if you use the rather trendier Internet Café/shopping mall centres.

If you do need to exchange money or change Travellers' cheques etc, do so only at registered money changing outlets, as changing your money anywhere else (many small shops, supermarkets etc will advertise this service) may well cost you an arm and a leg for service charges!

Try to keep some smaller denomination notes handy to pay for odds and ends. Paying for a 20 baht can of soft drink with a 1,000 baht note in a small local shop will not be appreciated!

Shops at a local level will almost certainly not have card swipe facilities, although some of the bigger stores in places like Bangkok, Pattaya, Hat Yai etc may have. Generally speaking though, shopping transactions tend to be cash only.

Travelling and Transport

Compared to the U.K., travelling around Thailand by train or bus is remarkably inexpensive. With a couple of deep breaths and a bit of bravery, it is also relatively easy… although initial impressions can make it look daunting. The chaos that is part and parcel of every train and/or bus station is actually misleading… the term "organized chaos" may be more appropriate, and booking a train or bus ticket is really just a simple matter of finding the correct booth!

In most stations, giving a member of staff the name of the place you wish to travel to is usually all that is needed to get you pointed in the right direction and to the correct booth.

If you are travelling by bus, the most luxurious option (and most expensive) will have only 3 large seats across the width of the bus - as opposed to the normal 4 smaller seats. All buses (except the cheapest wooden-seated 3rd class buses) will have reclining seats, air con. and toilet facilities. They will also provide a snack of some sort, as well as a bottle of water during your journey. If you are travelling at night, you get a blanket too!

Normally, at some point, the bus will stop for a short period (30 minutes or so) at a food stop, where a basic Thai-style meal will also be provided free of charge.

Many bus services travel through the night as well as day, giving you the option of a bit of "fly-by" sightseeing during the day, or sleeping (night buses). However, those of a nervous disposition may find the Thai "driving style" rather nerve racking, and may prefer the "sleeping" option, travelling by night when the roads are less busy-although it has to be said that accidents involving tourist buses are mercifully quite rare.

Taxis

You will almost certainly require a taxi from the airport to either the train station, bus station, or your hotel, and (similar to the U.K.) there are two kinds! There are the 'Taxi-Meters' - licensed cars with a "Taxi-Meter" sign on the roof and a meter which (by Law) they must use for every fare… and the "Taxi-cabs" which do not have meters, and often charge up to 3 or 4 times more than a metered taxi would charge! The law forbids Taxi-meters from soliciting customers, so these licensed cars tend to queue outside the airport or station etc in the taxi-rank, waiting for customers.

On the other hand, the cabs without meters have no such legal restrictions, and try very hard to solicit customers before they actually get to the taxi-rank holding the licensed taxi-meters! Due to the fact these cabs can't park on the official taxi-ranks, they usually have to park a short distance away, and tend to be very successful with tourists that arriving in Thailand for the first time! My advice is simple… ALWAYS travel in a licensed and metered Taxi-meter!

If you are travelling by Taxi-Meter in Bangkok, your journey may involve travelling on one of Bangkok's "Toll" roads. If your driver uses one of these, it is perfectly normal for him/her to ask you for the cost of the Toll (usually not more than 30/40 baht), as this would not be included in the metered fare. The cost of the Toll is displayed on large sign boards on the approach, and so can easily be checked.

All-in-all you will find Taxi-meters cheap to use and, depending on the time of day, very exciting! Driving in Thailand (and particularly Bangkok) can be akin to either an exciting fairground ride or a "Mad Max" race - whether you are in rush hour traffic or not! Those of a nervous disposition may wish to keep their eyes peeled to the floor rather than the road!

Trains

Where possible, travelling by train in Thailand can be a great alternative to travelling by bus. Ticket prices and journey times tend to be pretty similar, but the train is the better option by far for those who may find travelling by road just a little too "exciting", and - if travelling by night - the option of a fold-out "sleeper seat" is available.

There are two alternatives when booking a sleeper seat - a lower bunk, where the seat converts into a bed… and an upper bunk which is latched to the carriage ceiling. The lower bunk has the advantage of the train window (providing both cooler air and a view), whilst the upper bunk has a small wall or ceiling mounted fan (which may, or may not, be in working condition!).

Both bunks will be prepared and laid out by a train attendant with clean sheets, a pillow and a blanket - usually around 8.00pm. The train also offers food and drinks (both non-alcoholic and alcoholic), and all-in-all, is considered the more comfortable and smoother option by most travellers. However, don't forget to take into account the possible need of another journey when you get off the train, from the railway station to your ultimate destination.

Buying your rail ticket couldn't be easier, as the main station in Bangkok has huge LED signs, in both English and Thai, showing destinations and platform numbers. Simply head for the booth which has your destination written above it. Each booth will have numerous destinations listed above its window, so tell the ticket clerk where you want to go… just to be on the safe side!

Even in rural rail stations, it is simply a matter of stating your destination and paying for your ticket. You will find most staff friendly and helpful. If you worry about getting on the wrong train, show your ticket to one of the rail staff, and they will point you in the right direction. Your ticket will show you both the carriage and the seat number.

Flying high!

Depending on your ultimate destination in Thailand (and of course your budget!) an internal flight may be yet another option open to you.

Flights are now available to, or close to, some of the more popular holiday destinations, and again, compared to U.K. prices, are relatively cheap. Certainly they are by far the quicker option, cutting, for example the 12 hour train journey from Bangkok to Suratthani down to less than one hour's flying time!

Your travel agent should be able to organize these internal flights for you when you book your holiday. An added attraction to this option is that you may also have the choice of booking your luggage straight through from the U.K. to your final airport.

If you didn't, or couldn't, book an internal flight whilst booking your holiday, it is relatively painless to organize after you land in Bangkok. Simply make your way to the Domestic Terminal from the International part of the airport, and book/pay for your ticket. Staff at the International part of the airport will advise you on how to make your way over to the Domestic section.

Internal flights tend to be pretty regular these days, so there is usually only a short waiting time after booking until your flight.

But tourists needn't be religious to enjoy a stay in one of the Jerusalem hostels in Old Town. Neither is this the case for exploring its historical sites that predate many others across the western world.

The Old Town's history stretches back more than 3,000 years, but its most prominent feature is a much more recent addition in the 16th century Ottoman city wall ruins.

Tourists taking the tour along the wall's Ramparts Walk, running from Jaffa Gate to Stephen's Gate can catch a glimpse of Jerusalem's other buildings, from the Temple Mount to their own hostel in Jerusalem.

Christian Quarter

Highlights in the Christian Quarter are the famous Church of the Holy Sepulchre, which is where many believe Christ was crucified. Tourists keen can even stay in a Jerusalem hostel along the historic Via Dolorosa route itself.

Also dubbed the way of sorrows, it is supposed to trace the last steps taken by Christ before his crucifixion.

Muslim Quarter

In the Muslim quarter, the most famous architectural piece is the Dome of the Rock, which is one of the earliest pieces of Islamic architecture. Many consider it the Old City's most impressive and awe inspiring attraction, with a golden dome visible from great distances.

Other highlights include the Al-Aqsa Mosque, constructed shortly after the Dome of the Rock, and the Museum of Islamic Art.

Jewish Quarter

This feature is open all year round and marks the western edge of the wall that surrounds Temple Mount. Also dubbed the "wailing wall" it is a point of great spiritual significance for Jews, with many reciting prayers and inserting parchment text into the wall's crevices.

Despite the heat, those venturing out of Jerusalem hostels eager to visit the Western Wall need to be aware that it has a specific dress code demanding that legs, midriff and shoulders are covered. Conveniently, shawls are offered on entry.

The Shaw Festival is a world class performing arts company that brings the best plays of George Bernard Shaw and his contemporaries to life on three stages. This entertainment spectacle nicely compliments every antique collector's annual pilgrimage to Virgil and Jordan and the shops along Stone Rd in the old town of Niagara on the Lake.

Shopping for Antiques?

Niagara on the Lake, Virgil and Jordan are terrific places to shop for antique furniture, vintage kitchenware, stain glass windows and lamps. Although military collectibles are surprisingly scarce, there exists an extraordinary amount of sheet music, lace, dolls and of course doll houses, vintage bar supplies and nostalgia pieces from the 1920s and 30s. The area is also rich in antique toys, primitive iron tools, and collectible fruit sealer jars.

Niagara Falls History

Etienne Brûlé was the first European to see Niagara Falls in 1633. The first eyewitness account of the falls in written text was by Father Louis Hennepin in 1683 wherein he described it as, "the most beautiful and altogether the most terrifying waterfall in the universe".

The first European settlers were primarily British Loyalists fleeing America in 1778. At the end of the American Revolution, these Loyalists were given land grants, and the town of Niagara was laid out on the west bank of the Niagara River. As the first farms were being cut from the wilderness, the first orchards were planted and they included apple trees from Quebec and the Maritimes, and red cherries from the east coast of the United States. The whole settlement prospered under the leadership of John Butler, who had led a regiment of rangers during the revolution.

Handcrafted Wood Furniture

Known for good handcrafted wood furniture, the entire Niagara region is rich with handmade primitives that sometimes incorporate fruitwoods. Inside Europa-Antiques, shoppers will no doubt admire handmade wooden chests, side tables and wardrobes, pine dressers and bookshelf units all being sold for less than $350. The proprietors of this business, located at 1523 Niagara Stone Road, inside a

'dear old red brick church', have an interesting attitude toward recycling furniture as part of their contribution to reducing climate change - Josh points to the green Reduce, Reuse, Recycle triangle on his hemp shopping bags. This business is here to sell good furniture cheap, and keep the inventory moving by offering very low prices. And BEST OF ALL, if you buy over four hundred dollars worth of furniture they will deliver it for free as far away as Toronto!

Pottery, Porcelain, and Fine China

Lakeshore Antiques and Treasures is located at 855 Lakeshore Road in the center of Niagara on the Lake. This is a well stocked 7000 square foot building wherein 15 separate merchants offer up their wares. Overall there are good prices here on painted pine furniture and English china. The shop is filled with tables and chairs and early Canadian pottery, porcelain, and English fine china and American kitchenware from the 1940s and 50s. Antique chandeliers hang from the rafters over many merchant holdings.

Bakelite is a Good Buy in Niagara

The area is becoming known for unusual bakelite items like radios and picnic vessels, tableware and all manner of period Art Deco objects. These gorgeous early wood plastic luxury items were imported by retailers to accommodate Niagara Falls tourists in the booming1950's. Today vintage bakelite is very sheik, and these antiques are cool to collect and relatively inexpensive here because of their availability.

Georgian, Victorian and Edwardian Antiques

Creighton House Antiques is a family business located on the main street of Jordan since 1982, but Joe and Pauline Creighton have been in the area, selling antiques for thirty years. Their large shop is located in the carriage house next to their 1850s Georgian home. They have lots of Canadiana, Victorian, and Edwardian furniture pieces, turn-of-the-century oak wardrobes, and quality mahogany and walnut furniture of the 1920s. The antiques are in “as found condition”, and range from fair to good condition. Joe does the buying and prides himself of the selection - there's something for everyone here.

Jordan Antiques is found at 3836 Main Street in the village of Jordan and boasts 6000 square feet of shopping; there are a lot of antiques here and it's not crowded. The prices are good on pine furniture, fine china and figurines. There's an abundance of Art Deco ashtrays, cranberry coloured carnival glass, vintage Christmas decorations, antique fishing lures, wooden tackle boxes, and handmade quilts. This is the perfect place to outfit a cottage with classic furnishings.

The Shaw Festival plays punctuate the cerebral excitement of this historic destination. Look around this old town and you can see, touch and breathe in the history; the scenery includes thundering black powder cannons in the walls of Fort George, and quaint horse and buggy tours that parade under canopied streets. As most of the buildings in town have historic plaques chronicling their existence, it's quite enlightening to just saunter around town for an afternoon.