Memoirs: Traveling

March 15, 2010 by bkkpkerplayer  
Filed under Bangkok Travel

When I was a child my biggest dream was to travel around the world. I imagine how people with different skin tone and culture differ from each other. As I grow older, it seems my dream is near to be reached. My unforgettable trip was also my first international travel. A good wonderful country, “Thailand”. I thanked heaven when I stepped my feet in the land of Bangkok. Same skin tone but different culture. Wow! Amazing and truly a memorable experience.

When I got back, I’m always praying that I really want to go outside the country again. I don’t know but the first time made me a travel addict. Well, my prayers were heard. Second trip, astonishingly “Guangzhou, China”. I saw lots of interesting culture and beliefs, a friendly people though I didn’t knew how to speak Mandarin. Again, I collected pictures, friends and as well as the memories of being free to go where I want to be.

Last year, was my third trip which was in “Taiwan”. A small but a progressive country. Same as the Chinese they are very friendly people to deal with. I remembered the exciting train ride where you can find restaurants and stores underground.

Now, I’m dreaming for another blessings to go outside. Maybe after I opened my eyes, I’m in the Europe, U.S. of America, Australia, Israel, Africa, Korea, Mexico, India or maybe in Egypt. For me the wonderful experience of being in another country was a tremendously learning experience. I know that God created me to visit His wonderful CREATION.

Cheap Air Fare Ticket to Bangkok

March 15, 2010 by bkkpkerplayer  
Filed under Bangkok Travel

Being the capital of Thailand does not give it any more credit than its being one of the most beautiful cities gives it. A modern city with modern people following the latest modern trends and still holding on to their tradition is what defines Bangkok. Wait till you see the Bangkok palace and then for sure you will have nothing else to talk about. With prim and properly managed gardens to amazing contours, all is a part of the beautiful city. Cheap air tickets to Bangkok from your reliable companion Globester can make this much sought for trip an even better ordeal.

Dividing a city on any grounds is a bad option but to do that to make travel planning easy is a great idea. Pick up a map and divide the city into sectors that you can visit in a single day. There is so much to see that you will need a travel plan to see all things worth seeing and manage time with respect to that. Visit the Siam Square and shop as much as you want to. A perfect getaway for shopaholics and people who want to collect souvenirs; this place is full of handmade and ready made commodities for you to pick up. The amount that you save after buying cheap air tickets to Bangkok with Globester can be utilized better in shopping and fun retreats.

The Patpong district comes alive with the rising moon and is a great place to party or to share a few cozy moments with your loved ones. This area is famous for being the vital force in Bangkok when the day ends and you are sure to find great people around you for company. The weekend markets in and around the Phahonyothin Road is another swift place to pick up some amazing dresses and other things. The Old City is full of sights to be visited and include both modern styles and ancient structures. Visit the temple of the Sun God and feel how the warmth around fills your heart with immeasurable love and affection for all. This is the same reason why so many tourists feel warmth in the people around as well. All this and much more is waiting to be served on a silver platter, all you have to do is to book your cheap air tickets to Bangkok today and that too in just a few clicks.

Wat Pho is home to reclining Buddha figure that steals your senses and makes your heart the ruler. It is in complete harmony with the world around that we find the world around us. Take a break from city life and give yourself into the hands of a pampering and tranquilizing trip. Massages and spa treatments can give you an edge over the other travelers. Pamper yourself to the core with all these rejuvenating opportunities and that too at much lower prices than usual. River cruises and adventure sport options make the trip a complete fun package.

Best Credit Card Offer When Traveling

March 13, 2010 by bkkpkerplayer  
Filed under Bangkok Travel

Statistics show that women are now getting closer to becoming financially independent; they now enjoy the benefits of spending their own money in whatever way they want to spend it. Thanks to the benefits that credit cards can bring nowadays as far as finances are concerned.

Some people know them better as financial freedom cards.

With the fast-paced lifestyle that people have these days, the utilization of credit cards seems to have a great impact on the financial status of every individual.

In fact, with the proliferation of credit cards in the market today, more and more people are applying to obtain a credit card for their own use. No wonder that credit card growth is skyrocketing, with more than 80% of American household owning at least one credit card.

Given these facts, credit card companies dominate the market today. With many hundreds of credit card offers being advertised in print and broadcast media, people are sometimes confused which credit card could work best for them.

With so many credit card offers available in the market today, choosing the best credit card can be really tricky. Almost anywhere you look, credit card companies will load you up with freebies and benefits galore when you apply for their card.

Most of the credit card offers are so tempting that many people are encouraged or enticed to obtain a credit card even if their lifestyle will not permit them. Some people will apply even if they do not need a card at all.

However, with these tempting credit card offers, choosing the right card is the best thing that you can do to ensure that you get the card that meets every need when traveling.

If you are considering any credit card offers, now is the time for you to learn how to choose the best. Here are some ideas to help you:

1. Do your homework

Know more about credit cards. Try to learn more about the credit limits, annual percentage rate, and charges that go with every package.

Keep in mind that there are credit card offers that are bundled with some tricky credit card charges. What is the late or penalty fee? Is there a grace period to pay the charges? Is there a statement charge per month? Be aware when considering some of these options because otherwise you will never know what charges have hit, until you have made an inadvertent mistake with your card.

As they say, a well-informed decision is a smart decision.

2. Know the offers

The other advantages of having an international credit card instead of hard cash? Some credit cards allow billing in local currencies.

As in the regular use of credit cards, charges made during your trip abroad allow for a more flexible payment schedule. You do not have to fork over paper money to that shoe store sales clerk in Bangkok right away, for instance. In some cases, you can even pay in installments for your charges.

However, not all credit cards can give you this kind of benefit. So, if you often need this kind of advantage, try to look for a card that can provide this service in their credit card offer.

3. Customer support

When evaluating credit card offers, do not just be concerned with the freebies, low interest rates, and other incredible credit card perks. Whenever possible, opt for those that can give you 24 hour a day, 7 day a week customer service.

Some credit cards can offer you this. When you travel abroad, you do not have to wait for regular business hours in the United States to get help. Many credit card companies offer 24/7 customer service. Make sure you know when you can get service, and how fast you can get a replacement card if yours is lost or stolen.

So the next time you receive a new credit card offer, remember to use these tips. Go for the best experience when traveling by choosing a credit card that meets your needs.

5 Star Hotels in Bangkok & Phuket

March 13, 2010 by bkkpkerplayer  
Filed under Bangkok Travel

 

South-East Asian city Bangkok presents varied many attractive destinations which prove its diverse culture and interest. Bangkok is the great place for fun and entertainment. Shopping in Bangkok can be a great happening moment as its grand shopping malls proffers international brands of clothes and other luxurious accessories. Have a great time in Bangkok by arranging your stay in one of the 5 Star Hotels In Bangkok.

The popular locations of Bangkok city offer various luxury motels and resorts. The clean and comfortable accommodations with world class facilities are the main feature of 5 star hotels in Bangkok. Such hotels features personalized services and warm hospitality. The luxury hotels like 5-star Grand Millennium Sukhumvit Hotel and Grande Centre Point Ratchadamri Hotel are worth to mention. The locations of these hotels are at the close proximity of tourist attractions and commercial centers. So, the tourists can have an access to explore those places.

The beautifully and tastefully decorated hotel rooms reflect the image of Thai architecture and style. Perfect array of comfortable stay is the prime factor of Bangkok’s luxury star hotels. The hotels also have recreational centers like spa center, fitness center, swimming pool, bar, lounge, etc. The tasty Thai cuisines and comfortable accommodations will definitely make you stay in Bangkok a memorable one.

Phuket is another alluring tourist destination of Thailand. This largest island presents a picturesque view of the Andaman Sea. Holidaymakers find this place as a sheer beauty of paradise on earth. This beautiful island province is home to many luxury and cheap hotels. Five Star Hotels have its unique charm to attract the visitors. The long beaches of Phuket with its cozy atmosphere will mesmerize you calmly. Look forward for a great summer holiday at Phuket.

Accommodations of Phuket include all kinds of hotels. Luxury travelers can opt for 5 Star Hotels In Phuket for such hotels are especially designed for honeymoon makers or other luxury guests. Located on the backdrops of natural scenery such motels and resorts of Phuket feature all kinds of modern facilities.

 

Travel Light

March 12, 2010 by bkkpkerplayer  
Filed under Bangkok Travel

It is a time of year when the local weather improves and (hopefully) less rain plus cooler temperatures inspires the travel bug to bite more frequently even among residents. Of course the number of public holidays during the latter end of the year is virtually nil, so working residents are limited to short weekend trips. Number one destination for many gay travellers is Pattaya.

There are many reasons for this, nothing to do with the dirty sand and water either! I have a personal distaste for Pattaya, which stops just short of outright hatred. My recurring fantasy is that one of these days when we are leaving the place, having spent my annual one night penance there, my boyfriend will glance in the rear view mirror and be turned into a pillar of salt. I then see fire raining from the heavens and doing a Sodorn and Gomorrah number on the place, sparing a few righteous places such as Bruno’s and the Hard Rock Cafe. Alas this is only a dream, and anyway I’m rambling again when I should be concentrating on the subject at hand which is gay tourism.

There are quite a few travel agencies out there who specialise in tourism aimed at a specifically gay clientele. I have never made use of any of their services and I don’t intend to. I really fail to see that what they offer is significantly different from what any other travel agency has, with the possible exception that a specialised service charges more!

Luckily in Thailand we do have a couple of agencies who I think are fair and honest in their dealings. I refer to Ragoncastle and Utopia Tours both of which have excellent helpful websites with tons of FREE information for any gay tourist visiting this country!

Let’s not kid ourselves for a moment for many tourists whatever their inclination, top of their priority list is ”where can I get laid”? If anyone asks me this question I simply reply that Bangkok is the place if that’s all you are interested in and all the bars, discos and baby was allegedly stolen by a wild dog whilst on a picnic near Ayers Rock, not my cup of tea at all.

However ‘The architect and the emperor of Assyria” is another matter! A plane crashes on a remote island. One man stumbles from the wreckage. But he is not alone. Who is this other man, how did he get here, and will he make a good Bloody Mary? This is a high camp comedy and will certainly be more cheerful than “Lindy”!

My favorite just has to be “I Love The Nightlife.” For one night only, the Sydney Town Hall will be ringing with the huge sounds of the world’s best gay and lesbian ensembles performing their best repertoire. With over a hundred performers, these ensembles are committed to bringing pride and understanding through their energetic and infectious music.

Now that is what Gay Pride should be all about!

While I am talking about pride, I may as well mention that Bangkok Pride will be having an event in September, apart from their Koh Kret cruise that is. It was described to me as a celebrity waiter event and I was asked if I would be interested in participating. Mmm, I think I’ll have to discuss it with my manager!

Did anyone ever wonder about the symbol of Gay Pride the Rainbow flag and it’s origins?

The first Rainbow Flag was designed in 1978 by Gilbert Baker, a San Francisco artist, who created the flag in response to a local activist’s call for a community symbol. He designed a flag with eight stripes: pink, red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo and violet. Representing, respectively: sexuality, life, healing, sun, nature, art, harmony and spirit. He dyed and sewed the material for the first flag himself. Due to the fact that the color hot pink was not commercially available the flag was reduced to 7 colors for mass production.

In November 1978, San Francisco’s gay community was stunned when the city’s first openly gay supervisor, Harvey Milk, was assassinated. Wishing to demonstrate the gay community’s strength and solidarity in the aftermath of this tragedy, the 1979 Pride Parade Committee decided to use Baker’s flag. The committee eliminated the indigo stripe so they could divide the colors evenly along the parade route – three colors on one side of the street and three on the other. Soon the six colors were incorporated into a six-striped version that became popularized and that, today, is recognized by the International Congress of Flag Makers. I bet that’s news for most of you out there!

Lain Duncan Smith, leader of Britain’s Conservative Party, has given his support to Alan Duncan (no relation) ,who on July 29 became the party’s first member of Parliament to announce that he is gay.

Duncan Smith wrote to Duncan saying that his coming out would not harm his political career. (No, really?)

Duncan Smith said, “What you have done is honest and will not affect you in any way politically in the future.” (Well I’m not holding my breath for him to be party leader or even PM.) Could such a thing ever happen in enlightened Thailand? I doubt it!

Getting Cheap Airfare for Last Minute Travel

March 9, 2010 by bkkpkerplayer  
Filed under Bangkok Travel

People are wanting to fly to international destinations for vacations but planning a holiday getaway can easily turn into a stressful venture when the matter of costs comes up. However, airfare can be very expensive. Air fare by itself can kill the excitement. And when people already factor in accommodations, food, and shopping, or any other would just give up and stay home.If you think on taking a vacation that requires any sort of wide planning, such as out of the country or worldwide even to a popular destination in a different state, it is probably going to be necessary for you to enlist the services of a travel agency.

Try to find out which travel agency you are considering is helpful with. Agencies with more extensive (think global) affiliations are more likely to be able to get you lower prices and added favors for your vacations. Keep in mind, however, that just because they are affiliated with a large group does not mean that the agency itself has to be bigger. Common knowledge would suggest that the bigger the agency, the easier it is to negotiate lower prices.

At last, ask for references from the agency of both clients and dealers. Clients of course, are people like your self who have used the agency’s services to visit on vacations earlier. Dealers are the people with whom the agency deals in order to purchase items such as hotel rooms and airline tickets, and will often have a clearer thought of how the agency operates and where or not they can do all that they claim as far as cost cutting and favors. So, how does lower cost or cheap air travel works exactly simple a solution.Tavelhouseuk provide cheap airline tickets for last minute travel within Europe , Africa ,Canada , Hawaii, Asia , Mexico , South Pacific and South Central America.Over 24 year of experience in last minute cheap provide travel industry brings you the best possible discount available for all your travel, like weather traveling on Coach (Economy class), First class or Biz (Business class). No Advance Purchase Required on the most Fares.Buy online and save up to 45% on all your Last Minute Domestic air travel. We provide Consolidator fares with up to 70% savings on airline tickets for cheap international flights, generally the best overseas travel bargain available.Plan your Air Travel with Confidence Travelhouseuk guarantees Low Prices.

Example: London to Harare starting as low As £ 489.00

Our other fares are like as below.

London (LHR) Bangkok (BKK) 243£

London (LHR) Accra (ACC) 207£

London (LHR) Lagos (LOS) 292£

London (LHR) Jo,Burg (JNB) 316£

London (LHR) Sydney (SYD) 405£

How To Find Luxury Hotels In Bangkok, Thailand

March 3, 2010 by bkkpkerplayer  
Filed under Bangkok Travel

If you are looking to make reservations online you can visit any one of the online booking websites to book accommodations in Bangkok luxury hotels online. You can also reserve a luxury hotel in Bangkok by phone.

Stay along the Chao Phraya River. This is the most beautiful area of the city, which means that rates for luxury accommodations on the river will be 10 to 20 percent more than those downtown. Consider staying around Sukhumvit Road. A convenient stop on the skytrain, this area offers numerous options for luxury accommodations. You will find many tourists in this renowned shopping district.

Choose from among more than twenty Bangkok luxury hotels. The most plush ones are the penthouse high rise suites found at the international chain hotels. Expect to pay in excess of $150 a night for luxury accommodations in Bangkok. Across Thailand you will find hotel rates on the cheaper side.

You should organize your transportation in Bangkok. Land at Don Mueang International Airport. Almost all major airlines land at this airport, which is about 15 miles away from the city center.
Get your driver choose the expressway from the airport. This may help you escape some traffic, but will result in you spending 40 baht at the tool booth, so be sure to make change before you get in the cab.

Take a tuk tuk. Perhaps the most hated way to travel locally in Thailand, it can also be the most speedy in densely populated areas.

Preparing your visit to Bangkok, Thailand also will be of great advantage. Try to understand the currency of Thailand, the baht, as fast as possible. You will recognize that almost everyone appears to barter, which is part of the fun. Exchange booths affiliated with the major banks can be located in all popular tourist areas.

Carry a phrase book. While Thai is the official language, you will come across many English speakers, particularly in tourist areas, but it never hurts to learn some of the local language. Enjoy this stunning city, which holds the world’s longest place name, according to the Guinness Book of World Records: Krung Thep Maha Nakhon Amon Rattanakosin Mahinthara Ayutthaya Mahadilok Phop Noppharat Ratchathani Burirom Udom Ratchaniwet Mahasathan Amon Phiman Awatan Sathit Sakkathattiya Witsanu Kamprasit.

When you are trying to book a luxury hotel in Bangkok by phone, always be careful. Phone numbers include the United States international prefix “011.” When calling internationally from outside the United States, look for which international dialing prefix to use. All country codes are within parentheses and start with a “+” sign.

There are more reasons that you enjoy your stay at these Bangkok luxury hotels. The public transportation infrastructure in Bangkok is one of the most organized in the world, so feel secure accessing the skytrain, buses or boats anywhere you need to travel. It can take close to two hours to cross the city in a cab due to traffic. It is best to travel via public transportation. Be aware that the heat in April can be tough to bear and the rain in October may be a real pester, but in general, Bangkok can be visited year-round. And the case with luxury hotels in Bangkok is no different.

Thailand – The Land Of Smiles And Cheap Travel

February 27, 2010 by bkkpkerplayer  
Filed under Bangkok Travel

Thailand is known as the land of smiles, which is amazing considering the traffic jams in Bangkok. For budget travelers, Thailand simply can’t beat on price alone.

Thailand

Thailand is an odd mix of contrasts. It can be extremely stressful while trying to get around in Bangkok and gloriously relaxing while laying on practically any of the beaches that populate the coast of the country. Regardless of the situation, the Thais have a habit and custom or smiling regardless of what you ask or how you ask it.

Beaches

The beaches of Thailand need no introduction. Used as the setting for hundreds of movies, they come in a variety of styles. The beaches of Phuket and Phi Phi fall along the lines of traditional beach resort areas like you might find in a place such as Cancun, Mexico or Tamarindo, Costa Rica. On the other end of the scale, you can find more rustic beach areas in places like the island of Ko Chang where you’ll have a few beach bungalows, a couple of bars and one or two stores. If you’re looking for a little of both styles, just ask around.

Da North

Infatuated with the beach life, many people fail to head up country when in Thailand. This is a mistake as the north is the host to such locations as the city of Chang Mai, the Summer Palace of the King of Thailand and interesting little villages. For the outdoor enthusiasts, rafting, hiking and mountain biking are very popular and widely available.

Prices

If you’re on a budget, Thailand is a perfect travel destination. For some reason, flights to Thailand are particularly cheap with my recent flight on Korean Airlines running roughly $650 round trip. Once in country, your money will go a long, long way.

I think a note of caution is need at this point. Please beware. If you decide to take a trip to Thailand, you won’t want to come back to your native country. You will, however, definitely come back to Thailand!

5 Star Hotels in Bangkok & Phuket

February 22, 2010 by bkkpkerplayer  
Filed under Bangkok Travel

South-East Asian city Bangkok presents varied many attractive destinations which prove its diverse culture and interest. Bangkok is the great place for fun and entertainment. Shopping in Bangkok can be a great happening moment as its grand shopping malls proffers international brands of clothes and other luxurious accessories. Have a great time in Bangkok by arranging your stay in one of the 5 Star Hotels In Bangkok.

The popular locations of Bangkok city offer various luxury motels and resorts. The clean and comfortable accommodations with world class facilities are the main feature of 5 star hotels in Bangkok. Such hotels features personalized services and warm hospitality. The luxury hotels like 5-star Grand Millennium Sukhumvit Hotel and Grande Centre Point Ratchadamri Hotel are worth to mention. The locations of these hotels are at the close proximity of tourist attractions and commercial centers. So, the tourists can have an access to explore those places.

The beautifully and tastefully decorated hotel rooms reflect the image of Thai architecture and style. Perfect array of comfortable stay is the prime factor of Bangkok’s luxury star hotels. The hotels also have recreational centers like spa center, fitness center, swimming pool, bar, lounge, etc. The tasty Thai cuisines and comfortable accommodations will definitely make you stay in Bangkok a memorable one.

Phuket is another alluring tourist destination of Thailand. This largest island presents a picturesque view of the Andaman Sea. Holidaymakers find this place as a sheer beauty of paradise on earth. This beautiful island province is home to many luxury and cheap hotels. Five Star Hotels have its unique charm to attract the visitors. The long beaches of Phuket with its cozy atmosphere will mesmerize you calmly. Look forward for a great summer holiday at Phuket.

Accommodations of Phuket include all kinds of hotels. Luxury travelers can opt for 5 Star Hotels In Phuket for such hotels are especially designed for honeymoon makers or other luxury guests. Located on the backdrops of natural scenery such motels and resorts of Phuket feature all kinds of modern facilities.

Top 10 Travel Destinations

February 21, 2010 by bkkpkerplayer  
Filed under Bangkok Travel

Are you a travel fanatic? If the answer is yes, then here are the top 10 travel destinations you should consider visiting this year and a few reasons why.

Colombia: a place you just have to visit, with its plenty of momentum, friendly people, Colombia has a natural beauty and a country that is fun and safe to explore.

The coastal Caribbean city of Cartagena has great tourist infrastructure mixed with its colonial architecture and history. All the major cities here have fairly large International airports, and flights are often easier and cheaper.

Panama: when you mention Panama, what comes in the mind is canal. While you may not hear much about it, this country has lots of tourists attraction sites than canals only. Panama has a little bit of everything to offer travelers from the lush jungle highlands to excellent surf ad beaches on the pacific side. Add the mix friendly people with diverse and rich culture and you have yourself an equation for a perfect destination.

Cambodia: Siem Reap is just a bit south of Bangkok and it offers a far more authentic and less slick look into the culture while still having well developed infrastructure. One of the benefits here is Angkor Wat temple complex, most visitors use it as a staging area for their time.

Argentina: Bariloche in Argentina is a city jammed with winter and summer activities. Its stunning scenery in almost all directions makes it popular among those touring different places in the region.

Australia: the island of Tasmania in Australia though its a small state is enough to keep most travelers occupied for the entire trip, with its incredible landscapes, national parks, nature reserves and world heritage sites are just but a few great options to fill your days in Australia.

Bangladesh: This is definitely a place worth to look for when travelling to Asia. The capital city Dakar is the obvious place to start with, the people here are welcoming and friendly. The port city of Chittagong and Coxs Bazar the worlds longest beach are some of the must go places in Bangladesh.

Italy: travelers need not to be told to go to Italy, but many people need to be told about the many big Italian Island besides Sicily. Sardinia is one of them; it has long been a vacation destination for Italians. Its a haven for anyone who loves the outdoors.

Senegal- If you are looking to explore the real Africa you should consider visiting Senegal as your entry point. Its fascinating and easily accessible culture makes it a safe place to be.

Germany: fun loving? Berlin in Germany is fairly filled with interesting and amazing new tourist attraction. It has plenty going for including a feel that is somewhat exotic compared to some other countries.

Syria: Damascus in Syria is one place where you can feel like you are truly stepping back in time. It is the oldest city in the world but this part of the city looks, smells and sounds like it did long ago. Its full of history and credibly affordable.

So every one, 2009 is the year of travelling to your destination go for it!

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