What Our Experts Say About This Hotel:
Built alongside the Hua Chang Bridge, a famous landmark built by a past king, Hua Chang Heritage Hotel uses the era of King Rama V as inspiration, and transports guests back to the 19th Century. The hotel is a welcome addition to Bangkok's luxury boutique options, with a clear combination of traditional Thai elements with modern convenience and a great location for tourists with a busy schedule. It is quite hectic outside the hotel, but considering it is located a few metres from the start of Bangkok's legendary shopping district, National Stadium BTS Station and many other tourist attractions, that is part of its charm for many people. The lobby is a creative combination of white marble, Georgian faux-antique furniture and double-glazed windows instead of walls to keep everything bright and cheerful...and peaceful. The whitewashed, colonial style building has an interesting swimming pool that fills the courtyard and looks a little like a natural lake, and on the far side of the building there it a delightful restaurant, Miss Siam, serving royal Thai cuisine.
The 80 rooms available at Hua Chang Heritage Hotel are a mix of three room choices: Deluxe, Garden Deluxe and Garden Suite. The bold use of white from the lobby continues in the guestrooms, with additional colours denoting the type of room. The red and pink used in the Deluxe rooms is rather romantic and perfect for a couple; not so much for sharing colleagues on a business trip. The purple motif used in the Garden Deluxe rooms is far more subtle, plus these rooms are slightly bigger. Despite the smallish rooms, the modern design and open plan bathroom with retractable sliding door impressively maximises all of the available space. Other modern touches include Internet-ready TV and a touch screen control unit next to the bed that lets guests use the lights, a/c, butler service and alarm clock all from the comfort of their bed. Complementing this chic boutique resort are the staff at Hua Chang Heritage Hotel, who are attentive and diligent with period uniforms and respectful demeanours.
Thứ Ba, 2 tháng 4, 2013
10 Ways to Spot a Ladyboy The Ladyboy Phenomenon in Bangkok and Thailand
10 Ways to Spot a Ladyboy
The Ladyboy Phenomenon in Bangkok and Thailand
'What is a Ladyboy, anyway?' some might say, but if you have been to Thailand before the chances are you already know the answer. Whether it’s from watching the extravagant dancing beauties in a cabaret show or even from a personal encounter, a ladyboy has many different names and guises: katoey, transgender, transvestite or ross-dresser - someone who is so feminine on every level that it becomes almost impossible to differentiate a ladyboy from a real girl. Of course, we don’t mean the obviously masculine-looking ones but the really pretty ones; those who work for airlines, at cosmetic counters in upmarket shopping malls, as stars of cabaret shows or even television celebrities.
'Katoeys' are very well integrated into Thai life and no-one looks down on them... some girls are even a little envious of their perfect feminine figures and faces... In many cases, it reaches the point where anyone could be fooled. So how can you tell? How do you make sure that your pretty new girlfriend isn’t really... a dude!?
Of course many girls in Thailand would tick some of the boxes below, but very few would actually tick them all!
Too Tall:
Generally Thai girls are not very tall, but almost all katoeys are taller than average, with heights of 180cm not being unusual.
Too Feminine:
Look at the way she uses make up, the way she walks and moves her arms or hands, especially over-enthusiastic hair flicking... no real girl would need to act this way at every moment, like she is walking on a constant catwalk.
Overacts and Overreacts a lot:
Way more than necessary, often loudly in a high-pitched, exaggerated voice. It gets even worse in a conflict. Certainly, don't ever pick a fight with a ladyboy - you can't be sure of the outcome!
Too Large Breasts:
This again it is not an absolute rule but too big and often provocative is a good indicator. They often cheerfully invite you to check 'how real they feel'... it's more a question of appreciating their financial investment.
No Bra!
This is always interesting - In Thailand, no matter how small the breast and how open-minded a girl is, even in gogo bars, girls always wear a bra! If she doesn't, especially when combined with points 1 and 4, you are probably talking to a katoey.
The Voice:
In the majority of the cases, voices - even trained voices - are still what gives many katoeys away. The pitch might be higher than men's voices but it somehow sounds unnatural.
Adam's Apple:
This is a tricky one as Adam's Apples can be surgically removed, but if she has one, you can call her 'sir'.
The Dress Code:
Just like the overacting, the way a ladyboy dresses is usually a lot sexier than most girls. Add a generous amount of make up, feathers and glitter and you get a girl that has become so feminine and flamboyant that things start to get suspicious.
The Elbows :
One of the most unclear indicators, supposedly men's elbows are more square than a girl's.
The Final Check:
The ID card - no matter how feminine you are or if you use the ladies bathroom, even after a sex reassignment surgery, your ID will still show your real gender.
The Ladyboy Phenomenon in Bangkok and Thailand
'What is a Ladyboy, anyway?' some might say, but if you have been to Thailand before the chances are you already know the answer. Whether it’s from watching the extravagant dancing beauties in a cabaret show or even from a personal encounter, a ladyboy has many different names and guises: katoey, transgender, transvestite or ross-dresser - someone who is so feminine on every level that it becomes almost impossible to differentiate a ladyboy from a real girl. Of course, we don’t mean the obviously masculine-looking ones but the really pretty ones; those who work for airlines, at cosmetic counters in upmarket shopping malls, as stars of cabaret shows or even television celebrities.
'Katoeys' are very well integrated into Thai life and no-one looks down on them... some girls are even a little envious of their perfect feminine figures and faces... In many cases, it reaches the point where anyone could be fooled. So how can you tell? How do you make sure that your pretty new girlfriend isn’t really... a dude!?
Of course many girls in Thailand would tick some of the boxes below, but very few would actually tick them all!
Too Tall:
Generally Thai girls are not very tall, but almost all katoeys are taller than average, with heights of 180cm not being unusual.
Too Feminine:
Look at the way she uses make up, the way she walks and moves her arms or hands, especially over-enthusiastic hair flicking... no real girl would need to act this way at every moment, like she is walking on a constant catwalk.
Overacts and Overreacts a lot:
Way more than necessary, often loudly in a high-pitched, exaggerated voice. It gets even worse in a conflict. Certainly, don't ever pick a fight with a ladyboy - you can't be sure of the outcome!
Too Large Breasts:
This again it is not an absolute rule but too big and often provocative is a good indicator. They often cheerfully invite you to check 'how real they feel'... it's more a question of appreciating their financial investment.
No Bra!
This is always interesting - In Thailand, no matter how small the breast and how open-minded a girl is, even in gogo bars, girls always wear a bra! If she doesn't, especially when combined with points 1 and 4, you are probably talking to a katoey.
The Voice:
In the majority of the cases, voices - even trained voices - are still what gives many katoeys away. The pitch might be higher than men's voices but it somehow sounds unnatural.
Adam's Apple:
This is a tricky one as Adam's Apples can be surgically removed, but if she has one, you can call her 'sir'.
The Dress Code:
Just like the overacting, the way a ladyboy dresses is usually a lot sexier than most girls. Add a generous amount of make up, feathers and glitter and you get a girl that has become so feminine and flamboyant that things start to get suspicious.
The Elbows :
One of the most unclear indicators, supposedly men's elbows are more square than a girl's.
The Final Check:
The ID card - no matter how feminine you are or if you use the ladies bathroom, even after a sex reassignment surgery, your ID will still show your real gender.
Kidzania Bangkok at Siam Paragon Kid's dream jobs come true in Bangkok
Kidzania Bangkok at Siam Paragon
Kid's dream jobs come true in Bangkok
Kidzania Bangkok
Kidzania is the very latest and, without a doubt, most innovative addition to the 'edutainment' scene in Bangkok. This is unlike anything we have seen before and the level of fun has been raised to a brand new level. Kidzania, originally a Mexican company, has been opening family entertainment centers since 1999 in Santa Fe, then in 11 additional locations around the world; Bangkok being the latest one.
At first this appears to be another cute mini-town with pretty European style houses below painted skies - which it is. But beyond the extremely well executed craftsmanship, a much deeper level of education is brought to the kids.
Each and every one of the shops and buildings in Kidzania town is a learning experience for children from four to 15 years old. Not just some boring 'show-how': here kids get to be part of the shops. It's extremely well executed and kids love it! The range of experiences is also unique as there are up to 80 different jobs to choose from, everything from being a real dentist to flying a Boeing 737! Fight a hotel fire with real water and ride a tiny fire truck to reach the scene. Rescue people with a small ambulance and bring them to a mini hospital where you get to use almost real equipment. Everything is very realistic, just smaller. Then move to the newspaper office and report to a real newsroom or a TV studio... if only real life jobs would look as fun!
Each activity can accommodate small groups of 6 to 8 kids and no parents can interfere or participate. It's a real kid's world so mom and dad are just allowed to witness the operation and take photos... barely. The whole thing is really well thought out, with a large lobby offering cakes, coffees and computers, all dedicated to parents so kids can finally play free without having to take care of the nagging oldies.
The most appealing aspect of Kidzania is the concept of 'how-do-they-do-it'. It's certainly all fun and games but kids really do learn something... Everyone has to wear the relevant outfit or uniform - whether it's a nurse, a firefighter or a lab coat to learn how to make coke in a mini factory, how to prepare sushi at an Oishi restaurant or some burgers at McDonald's and how to change your mom's car tires at B-Quik car centre. It's all heavily sponsored of course, but who cares? Life out there is just like this! The kids earn 'KidZos' money by doing these mini jobs and can even open a bank account at the CIMB bank. This money is kept there for the kids to buy gifts at the souvenir shop on the way out. How smart from the organizers!
With such a great concept and perfect location at the top floor of Siam Paragon, there is no doubt Kidzania will be a huge success. In addition, being part of such an upmarket shopping mall will hopefully ensure that two years from now the attraction will not get the usual fate of other edutainment centres, when half the features usually stop working and everything looks old and faded. Siam Paragon now has a new gem to its crown.
Learn how to climb a hotel wall! (why?)
Learn how to climb a hotel wall! (why?)
The mini hospital
The mini hospital
The town main plaza
The town main plaza
The town main plaza
The town main plaza
Inside a real Boeing 737!
Inside a real Boeing 737!
With a real cockpit
With a real cockpit
The outside of Kidzania
The outside of Kidzania
Be a captain in uniform!
Be a captain in uniform!
Who wants to be a dentist?
Who wants to be a dentist?
It's a bit freaky though :D
It's a bit freaky though :D
Learn how to fix your dog yourself...
Learn how to fix your dog yourself...
...or work on a newspaper
...or work on a newspaper
How to fix mom's tires!
How to fix mom's tires!
and make your own sushi...
and make your own sushi...
Kidzania Bangkok
Opening Hours: Weekdays 10.00 AM - 5.00 PM • Weekend and Holidays - Morning 10.00 AM - 3.00 PM - Afternoon 4.00 PM - 9.00 PM
Location: Top floor of Siam Paragon
Price Range: Adult (15-60 years old) : 400 Baht - Kids (4-14 years old) : 650 Baht - 1 kid and 1 adult : 1,050 Baht - 2 kids and 1 adult : 1,700 Baht
Kid's dream jobs come true in Bangkok
Kidzania Bangkok
Kidzania is the very latest and, without a doubt, most innovative addition to the 'edutainment' scene in Bangkok. This is unlike anything we have seen before and the level of fun has been raised to a brand new level. Kidzania, originally a Mexican company, has been opening family entertainment centers since 1999 in Santa Fe, then in 11 additional locations around the world; Bangkok being the latest one.
At first this appears to be another cute mini-town with pretty European style houses below painted skies - which it is. But beyond the extremely well executed craftsmanship, a much deeper level of education is brought to the kids.
Each and every one of the shops and buildings in Kidzania town is a learning experience for children from four to 15 years old. Not just some boring 'show-how': here kids get to be part of the shops. It's extremely well executed and kids love it! The range of experiences is also unique as there are up to 80 different jobs to choose from, everything from being a real dentist to flying a Boeing 737! Fight a hotel fire with real water and ride a tiny fire truck to reach the scene. Rescue people with a small ambulance and bring them to a mini hospital where you get to use almost real equipment. Everything is very realistic, just smaller. Then move to the newspaper office and report to a real newsroom or a TV studio... if only real life jobs would look as fun!
Each activity can accommodate small groups of 6 to 8 kids and no parents can interfere or participate. It's a real kid's world so mom and dad are just allowed to witness the operation and take photos... barely. The whole thing is really well thought out, with a large lobby offering cakes, coffees and computers, all dedicated to parents so kids can finally play free without having to take care of the nagging oldies.
The most appealing aspect of Kidzania is the concept of 'how-do-they-do-it'. It's certainly all fun and games but kids really do learn something... Everyone has to wear the relevant outfit or uniform - whether it's a nurse, a firefighter or a lab coat to learn how to make coke in a mini factory, how to prepare sushi at an Oishi restaurant or some burgers at McDonald's and how to change your mom's car tires at B-Quik car centre. It's all heavily sponsored of course, but who cares? Life out there is just like this! The kids earn 'KidZos' money by doing these mini jobs and can even open a bank account at the CIMB bank. This money is kept there for the kids to buy gifts at the souvenir shop on the way out. How smart from the organizers!
With such a great concept and perfect location at the top floor of Siam Paragon, there is no doubt Kidzania will be a huge success. In addition, being part of such an upmarket shopping mall will hopefully ensure that two years from now the attraction will not get the usual fate of other edutainment centres, when half the features usually stop working and everything looks old and faded. Siam Paragon now has a new gem to its crown.
Learn how to climb a hotel wall! (why?)
Learn how to climb a hotel wall! (why?)
The mini hospital
The mini hospital
The town main plaza
The town main plaza
The town main plaza
The town main plaza
Inside a real Boeing 737!
Inside a real Boeing 737!
With a real cockpit
With a real cockpit
The outside of Kidzania
The outside of Kidzania
Be a captain in uniform!
Be a captain in uniform!
Who wants to be a dentist?
Who wants to be a dentist?
It's a bit freaky though :D
It's a bit freaky though :D
Learn how to fix your dog yourself...
Learn how to fix your dog yourself...
...or work on a newspaper
...or work on a newspaper
How to fix mom's tires!
How to fix mom's tires!
and make your own sushi...
and make your own sushi...
Kidzania Bangkok
Opening Hours: Weekdays 10.00 AM - 5.00 PM • Weekend and Holidays - Morning 10.00 AM - 3.00 PM - Afternoon 4.00 PM - 9.00 PM
Location: Top floor of Siam Paragon
Price Range: Adult (15-60 years old) : 400 Baht - Kids (4-14 years old) : 650 Baht - 1 kid and 1 adult : 1,050 Baht - 2 kids and 1 adult : 1,700 Baht
Bangkok Water Park and Amusement Park, Siam Park City Bangkok
Bangkok Water Park and Amusement Park
Siam Park City Bangkok
There is enough to see and do at Siam Park to spend an entire day here, with a large area dedicated to a water park with exhilarating slides, and a separate amusement park with some fantastic rides for both small and big kids – just don’t visit expecting Disneyland or other international standard parks you have visited before. Although this park has some large new rides and the water park is great fun, the overall look is slightly shabby, despite a complete renovation in 2007 it still looks like it’s stuck in the 90s, and staff don’t have the best English. Although adults may be less than impressed, kids are sure to enjoy a day out here, and with a great value entry price and cheap food options available it’s a fantastic treat for the kids on a family day out.
Siam Park City Bangkok
You enter the park via a multi-coloured princess’s castle. It is separated into five areas: the water park, X-Zone, Family World, Fantasy World and Small World, with rides to suit all ages. Confusingly the areas are not based on location, but rather ride specific, with the newest popular rides included on a higher price ticket. A day pass for the entire park costs 900 baht for those over 130cm (the height restriction for most of the big rides) and 400 for rides in the Family and Fantasy worlds as well as the water park. The map is colour coded so you can easily see which rides are included in your package. Getting there isn’t too difficult; a taxi ride from central Bangkok should cost around 200 baht and takes around 45 minutes.
Siam Park City Bangkok
Siam Water Park is by far the most popular zone in the park, offering the perfect place to cool down and escape the frenetic city streets. With plenty of shaded seating, families often spend the entire day here, jumping in and out of the river that flows through the park, which also boasts the largest wave pool in the world, with small waves and shallow areas suitable for all ages, and a gentle slope to paddle in. For older kids the Super Spiral is great fun, with slides weaving in and out, and great fun for anyone over the age of eight. For smaller kids there are mini slides, and for daredevils – the speed slide! This is by far one of the scariest water rides I have ever experienced. They look innocent enough with bright multi-colours, but on the highest ones you skim down them at breakneck speed, bumping up and down with water spraying in your eyes. Exhilarating for thrill seekers, traumatic for anyone else!
Siam Park City Bangkok
X-Zone encompasses most of the adult / teen rides. Vortex is easily the most impressive, one of the largest suspended roller coasters in the world with a maximum speed of 80 kilometres an hour. Another exciting coaster is Boomerang, which propels you in a triple loop forwards before bouncing you back round. Screams from those experiencing the Giant Drop can be heard as you walk by as they fall for several seconds from a height of 75m. It is also one of the most popular rides at Siam Park City. Although from a distance Enterprise may look like your average ferris wheel, it spins faster than any other and if this isn’t enough, Mega Dance spins you up, round and round again! At the other end of the scale Small World is suitable for young kids, with a mini carousel, small pond with swan boats and even a bouncy castle. Best thing about Small World is that the majority of the rides are under cover, meaning youngsters don’t have to be out in the sun.
Siam Park City Bangkok
In Family World, which comes as part of the 400 baht ticket, classic rides include a log flume, pirate ship and magic carpet ride. Trying them all out will easily take a couple of hours and is sure to leave your head in a spin! For those who like a gentler ride, check out the observation deck, which gives a great view over the whole park or the double decker carousel. The Grand Canyon is a great family ride: a roller coaster suitable for those taller than 100cm. Africa Adventure seems a little outdated and naff, and probably is most suitable for young kids, perhaps as a break from all the running around. You sit on a small train and wind around statues of animals. Although Siam Park may not be the best theme park you have ever been to, it’s great fun for kids of all ages and doesn’t break the bank.
Siam Park City Bangkok
Opening Hours: 10:00 – 18:00
Address: 203 Suan Siam Rd., Kannayao, Bangkok 10230
Tel: +66 (0)2 919 7200
How to get there: For Taxi - สวนสยาม ทะเล-กรุงเทพฯ เดินทางสะดวกทั้งถนนเสรีไทย (5 กม. จากบางกะปิ) และถนนรามอินทรา (กม.12 ก่อนถึงมีนบุรี) อยู่ไม่ไกลจากสนามบินสุวรรณภูมิ (ถนนวงแหวนรอบนอกฝั่งตะวันออก ทางออกถนนเสรีไทย)
Siam Park City Bangkok
There is enough to see and do at Siam Park to spend an entire day here, with a large area dedicated to a water park with exhilarating slides, and a separate amusement park with some fantastic rides for both small and big kids – just don’t visit expecting Disneyland or other international standard parks you have visited before. Although this park has some large new rides and the water park is great fun, the overall look is slightly shabby, despite a complete renovation in 2007 it still looks like it’s stuck in the 90s, and staff don’t have the best English. Although adults may be less than impressed, kids are sure to enjoy a day out here, and with a great value entry price and cheap food options available it’s a fantastic treat for the kids on a family day out.
Siam Park City Bangkok
You enter the park via a multi-coloured princess’s castle. It is separated into five areas: the water park, X-Zone, Family World, Fantasy World and Small World, with rides to suit all ages. Confusingly the areas are not based on location, but rather ride specific, with the newest popular rides included on a higher price ticket. A day pass for the entire park costs 900 baht for those over 130cm (the height restriction for most of the big rides) and 400 for rides in the Family and Fantasy worlds as well as the water park. The map is colour coded so you can easily see which rides are included in your package. Getting there isn’t too difficult; a taxi ride from central Bangkok should cost around 200 baht and takes around 45 minutes.
Siam Park City Bangkok
Siam Water Park is by far the most popular zone in the park, offering the perfect place to cool down and escape the frenetic city streets. With plenty of shaded seating, families often spend the entire day here, jumping in and out of the river that flows through the park, which also boasts the largest wave pool in the world, with small waves and shallow areas suitable for all ages, and a gentle slope to paddle in. For older kids the Super Spiral is great fun, with slides weaving in and out, and great fun for anyone over the age of eight. For smaller kids there are mini slides, and for daredevils – the speed slide! This is by far one of the scariest water rides I have ever experienced. They look innocent enough with bright multi-colours, but on the highest ones you skim down them at breakneck speed, bumping up and down with water spraying in your eyes. Exhilarating for thrill seekers, traumatic for anyone else!
Siam Park City Bangkok
X-Zone encompasses most of the adult / teen rides. Vortex is easily the most impressive, one of the largest suspended roller coasters in the world with a maximum speed of 80 kilometres an hour. Another exciting coaster is Boomerang, which propels you in a triple loop forwards before bouncing you back round. Screams from those experiencing the Giant Drop can be heard as you walk by as they fall for several seconds from a height of 75m. It is also one of the most popular rides at Siam Park City. Although from a distance Enterprise may look like your average ferris wheel, it spins faster than any other and if this isn’t enough, Mega Dance spins you up, round and round again! At the other end of the scale Small World is suitable for young kids, with a mini carousel, small pond with swan boats and even a bouncy castle. Best thing about Small World is that the majority of the rides are under cover, meaning youngsters don’t have to be out in the sun.
Siam Park City Bangkok
In Family World, which comes as part of the 400 baht ticket, classic rides include a log flume, pirate ship and magic carpet ride. Trying them all out will easily take a couple of hours and is sure to leave your head in a spin! For those who like a gentler ride, check out the observation deck, which gives a great view over the whole park or the double decker carousel. The Grand Canyon is a great family ride: a roller coaster suitable for those taller than 100cm. Africa Adventure seems a little outdated and naff, and probably is most suitable for young kids, perhaps as a break from all the running around. You sit on a small train and wind around statues of animals. Although Siam Park may not be the best theme park you have ever been to, it’s great fun for kids of all ages and doesn’t break the bank.
Siam Park City Bangkok
Opening Hours: 10:00 – 18:00
Address: 203 Suan Siam Rd., Kannayao, Bangkok 10230
Tel: +66 (0)2 919 7200
How to get there: For Taxi - สวนสยาม ทะเล-กรุงเทพฯ เดินทางสะดวกทั้งถนนเสรีไทย (5 กม. จากบางกะปิ) และถนนรามอินทรา (กม.12 ก่อนถึงมีนบุรี) อยู่ไม่ไกลจากสนามบินสุวรรณภูมิ (ถนนวงแหวนรอบนอกฝั่งตะวันออก ทางออกถนนเสรีไทย)
Bangkok Hotels and Travel Guide
Bangkok Hotels and Travel Guide
Cultural phenomenon, shopping heaven and tourist treasure. Welcome to Bangkok; one of the most cosmopolitan, contrasting and, above all, compelling of Asian cities. A steamy, pulsating, yet smiling metropolis of more than ten million – intense at first, but addictive as anything. Come find your niche among dazzling temples, hotels of every breed and size, eclectic markets, gleaming palaces, ritzy shopping malls, a famous nightlife and the many things in between.
Enjoy a memorable dinner cruise adrift the Chao Phraya River. Bask in the city’s warm, affluent glow at a skyscraping rooftop bar. Experience all the things – tuk-tuk ride, ladyboy show, Muay Thai (kickboxing) match, Thai massage – everyone always comes home talking about.
Cultural phenomenon, shopping heaven and tourist treasure. Welcome to Bangkok; one of the most cosmopolitan, contrasting and, above all, compelling of Asian cities. A steamy, pulsating, yet smiling metropolis of more than ten million – intense at first, but addictive as anything. Come find your niche among dazzling temples, hotels of every breed and size, eclectic markets, gleaming palaces, ritzy shopping malls, a famous nightlife and the many things in between.
Enjoy a memorable dinner cruise adrift the Chao Phraya River. Bask in the city’s warm, affluent glow at a skyscraping rooftop bar. Experience all the things – tuk-tuk ride, ladyboy show, Muay Thai (kickboxing) match, Thai massage – everyone always comes home talking about.
Chủ Nhật, 17 tháng 3, 2013
Public taxi stand is located on Level 1 (Ground Level).
Public taxi stand is located on Level 1 (Ground Level).
> Contact Taxi counter, Level 1 - Ground Level, near entrances 3, 4, 7 and 8.
> Pick up area: taxi stand Level 1 - Ground Level
> Taxi fare: metered taxi fare plus 50 Baht airport surcharge, and expressway fees.
> Public taxis serving Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi airport must be less than 5 years old.
> Public taxi drives must be certified by Airports of Thailand.
> Passenger drop off at Departures (level 4 - outer curb).
> Contact Taxi counter, Level 1 - Ground Level, near entrances 3, 4, 7 and 8.
> Pick up area: taxi stand Level 1 - Ground Level
> Taxi fare: metered taxi fare plus 50 Baht airport surcharge, and expressway fees.
> Public taxis serving Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi airport must be less than 5 years old.
> Public taxi drives must be certified by Airports of Thailand.
> Passenger drop off at Departures (level 4 - outer curb).
Public Taxi Stands Will Relocate to The Second Floor (Arrivals Level)
Public Taxi Stands Will Relocate to The Second Floor (Arrivals Level)
Suvarnabhumi airport is preparing to relocate public taxi stands to the second floor of the main airport building, on the same floor as the arrivals terminal, pushing out influential private limousine operators.
Suvarnabhumi airport director Serirat Prasutanond said yesterday that taxi stands would move up from the frontal road on the first floor of the passenger terminal to the second floor after the Songkran festival ends on April 17.
Passengers arriving at the airport exit from immigration and customs checks on the second floor of the new Bangkok airport building.
Mr Serirat said the new system was in line with the original plans set out for transport services at the Suvarnabhumi airport.
"I am not concerned about what was arranged before I took office, but the current objective is to solve problems systematically by focusing on providing the most convenience for passengers by returning to the original plan," said Mr Serirat who, took up his position in February.
"This may affect some groups but it must be understood for the sake of problem solving."
Buses will also be allowed to pick up passengers from the frontal road on the second floor instead of waiting at the remote bus terminal located away from the main terminal building.
Limousine services and vehicles of hotel associations and group tour operators will be relocated from the second floor down to the first floor.
Mr Serirat said the change was aimed at providing the most convenience to the majority of passengers. Limousine services are only used by a limited group of passengers, he said.
He also said the illegal but influential groups of limousine service providers were cashing in at Suvarnabhumi and that airport authorities had been catching up to 250 illegal limousine operators every day.
Passengers have complained about the difficulties of finding the public taxi stands at the new airport, prompting officials to put more signs to direct passengers from the arrivals hall.
Suvarnabhumi airport is preparing to relocate public taxi stands to the second floor of the main airport building, on the same floor as the arrivals terminal, pushing out influential private limousine operators.
Suvarnabhumi airport director Serirat Prasutanond said yesterday that taxi stands would move up from the frontal road on the first floor of the passenger terminal to the second floor after the Songkran festival ends on April 17.
Passengers arriving at the airport exit from immigration and customs checks on the second floor of the new Bangkok airport building.
Mr Serirat said the new system was in line with the original plans set out for transport services at the Suvarnabhumi airport.
"I am not concerned about what was arranged before I took office, but the current objective is to solve problems systematically by focusing on providing the most convenience for passengers by returning to the original plan," said Mr Serirat who, took up his position in February.
"This may affect some groups but it must be understood for the sake of problem solving."
Buses will also be allowed to pick up passengers from the frontal road on the second floor instead of waiting at the remote bus terminal located away from the main terminal building.
Limousine services and vehicles of hotel associations and group tour operators will be relocated from the second floor down to the first floor.
Mr Serirat said the change was aimed at providing the most convenience to the majority of passengers. Limousine services are only used by a limited group of passengers, he said.
He also said the illegal but influential groups of limousine service providers were cashing in at Suvarnabhumi and that airport authorities had been catching up to 250 illegal limousine operators every day.
Passengers have complained about the difficulties of finding the public taxi stands at the new airport, prompting officials to put more signs to direct passengers from the arrivals hall.
Public Transport Services at Suvarnabhumi Airport
Public Transport Services at Suvarnabhumi Airport
Suvarnabhumi Airport is located on a 3,100 ha site in the Samut Prakarn province of Thailand at Nong Ngu Hao (Nongnughao translated as Cobra Swamp), 30km east of Bangkok. Road access to the new airport will be provided by a series of new highways connected to Bangkok's existing outer ring road. The main access road is an elevated 2 x 5 lane road that leads from the passenger terminal through the northern part of the site to the new Bangkok–Chonburi highway.
The construction of the City Airport Terminal in Makkasan and a 28.6 km high-speed rail link to the new airport started in July 2005 and are planned for completion in December 2009. The airport express, informally known as the Pink Line and operated jointly with SRT's planned Red Line commuter service, will connect with the BTS Sukhumvit Line and MRT Blue Line at Phaya Thai and Phetchaburi stations respectively, offering airport-bound passengers a fast 15-minute limited stop journey from the city.
Suvarnabhumi Airport is located on a 3,100 ha site in the Samut Prakarn province of Thailand at Nong Ngu Hao (Nongnughao translated as Cobra Swamp), 30km east of Bangkok. Road access to the new airport will be provided by a series of new highways connected to Bangkok's existing outer ring road. The main access road is an elevated 2 x 5 lane road that leads from the passenger terminal through the northern part of the site to the new Bangkok–Chonburi highway.
The construction of the City Airport Terminal in Makkasan and a 28.6 km high-speed rail link to the new airport started in July 2005 and are planned for completion in December 2009. The airport express, informally known as the Pink Line and operated jointly with SRT's planned Red Line commuter service, will connect with the BTS Sukhumvit Line and MRT Blue Line at Phaya Thai and Phetchaburi stations respectively, offering airport-bound passengers a fast 15-minute limited stop journey from the city.
Best Bangkok night markets: Forage for tourist tack, authentic antiques, vintage junk and hot fashions at the city's top evening shopping haunts
Best Bangkok night markets: Forage for tourist tack, authentic antiques, vintage junk and hot fashions at the city's top evening shopping haunts
When you've had your fill of fancy malls and brand boutiques, Bangkok's night markets open your wallet to a whole new set of retail delights under the moonlight.
Open for business the minute the sun dips below the city skyline, explore and forage in a well-stocked world of whimsical products and flexible price tags, browsing everything from tourist tack to authentic antiques, fragrant flora to fight-ready flick knives.
The subtext for Bangkok's street traders seems to be "if we sell it, they'll buy it," and like it or not, you probably will.
It requires a little commitment to find and make the most of the markets listed here, but your efforts will be justly rewarded.
Keep in mind: it's best to avoid Monday, when a city-wide ban on street vendors is loosely observed.
Khao San Road
Khao San Road
Khao San, once geared solely towards backpackers, hosts street vendors selling all things overtly Thai -- think pad thai noodles, Chang/Singha beer T-shirts and wooden ridgeback frogs that make a convincing croak.
But in recent times the foreigner-to-Thai ratio has evened out somewhat thanks to local-favorite watering holes such as Hippie de Bar and Brick Bar.
In addition to the standard same-same-but-different souvenirs, an increasing variety of independent designer clothes and trinkets is being hawked, making for a fun stroll down the street to shop for one-off items and gawk at interesting tourist characters.
Though an undeniably colorful aspect of Bangkok, Khao San is hardly the poster child of all things Thai, so don't make this the only Bangkok market you visit.
Where: Khao San connects Chakrabongse and Tanao roads, just off Ratchadamnoen Klang Road. All cabbies and tuk-tuk drivers know it, regardless how off-tone your pronunciation.
When: Daily, all day. Tour operators and food stalls open in the mornings to cater to the tourists staying on Khao San, but when the sun goes down, the music starts thumping and the street gets progressively carnival-esque, tapering off at 11 p.m. or so.
Silom Road
Silom Road
A wholesome commercial district by day, Silom turns into tourist central by night, with makeshift shops appearing on the sidewalks on both sides of the road, selling mainly souvenirs and knockoff accessories.
Between Silom Soi 4 and 6 lies the infamous street that has done its part in immortalizing table tennis shows the world over.
Depending what floats your boat, Patpong is a shopping and entertainment zone with a "come-one, come-all" openness -- running the red-lit gauntlet can be daunting with pesky show promoters tugging at your arms, but hey, where else are you going to find that Borat-esque swimsuit?
Right across from Patpong, at the top of Soi Convent, stands a savior to night owls citywide -- P'Uan -- diligently grilling his moo ping (pork on sticks) late into the night.
Where: Silom stretches from the Dusit Thani Hotel on the corner of Rama 4 Road all the way to riverside Charoenkrung Road. Take the Skytrain to Sala Daeng station to jump in the middle of the action.
When: Vendors on Silom are in business from around 6 p.m.-1 a.m. from Tuesday to Sunday, while Patpong stays open every night until 2 a.m.
Pak Khlong Talad
Flower Market
Though more of a traditional market than a shopper's delight, Pak Khlong Talat is a comforting place to soothe insomniac tendencies, with flowers in a riot of colors giving off gentle aromas that waft through the air.
Fresh flowers and decorative plants arrive by the truckload during the witching hours of the night, making the pre-dawn hours the busiest.
Tagete marigold flowers, jasmines and roses are delicately threaded into the patterned garlands seen all around town, and orchids and a cornucopia of other flowers are arranged into bouquets and elaborate displays.
A fresh market towards the rear sells betel nuts, vegetables, and fruits, and beverage pit stops serve up drinks such as lavender soda.
Where: Along Maharat Road, close to the intersection with Chakraphet Road and Saphan Phut night market. Take the river boat from the Skytrain Saphan Taksin station and disembark at the Saphan Phut pier, or cab it if you're visiting at night.
When: All day, every day, with floral action peaking after 2 a.m.
Ratchayothin Night Market
Ratchayothin Night MarketIn the big lot right beside Major Cineplex Ratchayothin, an open-air night market caters mainly to locals and moviegoers killing a few minutes before showtime.
The majority of the stalls hawk affordable fashion (as in, heavy on the Japanese and Korean influences), as well as cosmetics, jewelry, phone accessories and other kitsch.
Yuppies browse the goods on display, and there's a hipster bar overlooking the shopping area conveniently close by for the non-shopping enthusiasts.
Though always advisable to bring cash to go to a market, some of the stalls also accept credit cards should a retail wave wash over you.
Where: Adjacent to Major Cineplex Ratchayothin. The closest stations are Mo Chit and Phahonyothin. From there, take a cab or brave a motorbike taxi if the traffic looks bad.
When: Tuesday - Sunday, from 4 p.m.-11 p.m.
Saphan Phut Night Bazaar
Saphan Phut
The night market adjacent to Memorial Bridge (aka Saphan Phut) swarms with a younger local crowd, with secondhand items and cheap price tags that appeal to pre-workforce shoppers.
A variety of goods and services tempt the predominantly university student shoppers, from hookahs to handbags, tattoos to T-shirts.
The area under the bridge is a popular spot for local teenagers to hang out riverside, and caricaturists are often found sketching for a small fee.
One of the best snacks here is the squid eggs, served in a styrofoam bowl on a bed of raw veggies.
Stairs leading up to the bridge give you a nice view of the Chao Phraya River, and its proximity to the flower market makes for a two-stones outing to glimpse two facets of the local lifestyle.
Where: At the base of the Memorial Bridge, at the intersection of Maharat and Chakraphet roads. Take the river boat from the Skytrain Saphan Taksin station and disembark at the Saphan Phut pier, or cab it if you're visiting at night.
When: Tuesday = Sunday. Stalls start to set up around 6 p.m., with the market really kicking into gear around 8 p.m. until 2 a.m.
Ratchada Night Bazaar
RatchadaRachada Night Bazaar's origins as a vintage automobile swap meet are still very much evident in the market, with retro collectibles and mod fashion accessories sold from VW camper vans.
Also known as the "Vespa Market," these classic scooters still pepper the grounds, many of which are driven by the hip artsy Thai crowd that frequents the market.
Nostalgia-inducing goodies up for grabs include LPs, gramophones, typewriters and vintage everything -- toys, cameras, fans, posters. There's a fair amount of secondhand clothing and books recycled here as well.
For shoppers mourning the loss of the Suanlum Night Bazaar, work is underway to relocate the Bangkok mainstay to this area next year.
Where: At the junction of Ladprao and Rachadapisek roads. Take the train to Ladprao station, exit 1.
When: On Saturday, with the first vendors setting up around 6 p.m., sellers are out in full force from 8 p.m. until after midnight.
Talad Rot Fai
Train MarketAnother market playing to the romance of yesteryear is Talad Rot Fai. The bazaar's name is a nod to its location next to train tracks and disused creaky coaches.
Other than the hip attitude sported by the visiting clientele, all the wares on display here ooze old-school cool -- vintage toys, Matchbox cars, retro furniture, and Soviet-era pins -- with warm colored lightbulbs bathing the entire market in a dusty sepia ambiance.
Even if you don't purchase anything, it's an inviting place to hang out with a bevy at a pub decked out in wood and belting out classics from 1950's bubblegum pop to Johnny Cash, serenading the crowd.
Where: Take the train to Kamphaengphet station. Turn right at exit 1 and the market's a few blocks down on the right-hand side.
When: Saturday and Sunday from 2 p.m. to midnight.
When you've had your fill of fancy malls and brand boutiques, Bangkok's night markets open your wallet to a whole new set of retail delights under the moonlight.
Open for business the minute the sun dips below the city skyline, explore and forage in a well-stocked world of whimsical products and flexible price tags, browsing everything from tourist tack to authentic antiques, fragrant flora to fight-ready flick knives.
The subtext for Bangkok's street traders seems to be "if we sell it, they'll buy it," and like it or not, you probably will.
It requires a little commitment to find and make the most of the markets listed here, but your efforts will be justly rewarded.
Keep in mind: it's best to avoid Monday, when a city-wide ban on street vendors is loosely observed.
Khao San Road
Khao San Road
Khao San, once geared solely towards backpackers, hosts street vendors selling all things overtly Thai -- think pad thai noodles, Chang/Singha beer T-shirts and wooden ridgeback frogs that make a convincing croak.
But in recent times the foreigner-to-Thai ratio has evened out somewhat thanks to local-favorite watering holes such as Hippie de Bar and Brick Bar.
In addition to the standard same-same-but-different souvenirs, an increasing variety of independent designer clothes and trinkets is being hawked, making for a fun stroll down the street to shop for one-off items and gawk at interesting tourist characters.
Though an undeniably colorful aspect of Bangkok, Khao San is hardly the poster child of all things Thai, so don't make this the only Bangkok market you visit.
Where: Khao San connects Chakrabongse and Tanao roads, just off Ratchadamnoen Klang Road. All cabbies and tuk-tuk drivers know it, regardless how off-tone your pronunciation.
When: Daily, all day. Tour operators and food stalls open in the mornings to cater to the tourists staying on Khao San, but when the sun goes down, the music starts thumping and the street gets progressively carnival-esque, tapering off at 11 p.m. or so.
Silom Road
Silom Road
A wholesome commercial district by day, Silom turns into tourist central by night, with makeshift shops appearing on the sidewalks on both sides of the road, selling mainly souvenirs and knockoff accessories.
Between Silom Soi 4 and 6 lies the infamous street that has done its part in immortalizing table tennis shows the world over.
Depending what floats your boat, Patpong is a shopping and entertainment zone with a "come-one, come-all" openness -- running the red-lit gauntlet can be daunting with pesky show promoters tugging at your arms, but hey, where else are you going to find that Borat-esque swimsuit?
Right across from Patpong, at the top of Soi Convent, stands a savior to night owls citywide -- P'Uan -- diligently grilling his moo ping (pork on sticks) late into the night.
Where: Silom stretches from the Dusit Thani Hotel on the corner of Rama 4 Road all the way to riverside Charoenkrung Road. Take the Skytrain to Sala Daeng station to jump in the middle of the action.
When: Vendors on Silom are in business from around 6 p.m.-1 a.m. from Tuesday to Sunday, while Patpong stays open every night until 2 a.m.
Pak Khlong Talad
Flower Market
Though more of a traditional market than a shopper's delight, Pak Khlong Talat is a comforting place to soothe insomniac tendencies, with flowers in a riot of colors giving off gentle aromas that waft through the air.
Fresh flowers and decorative plants arrive by the truckload during the witching hours of the night, making the pre-dawn hours the busiest.
Tagete marigold flowers, jasmines and roses are delicately threaded into the patterned garlands seen all around town, and orchids and a cornucopia of other flowers are arranged into bouquets and elaborate displays.
A fresh market towards the rear sells betel nuts, vegetables, and fruits, and beverage pit stops serve up drinks such as lavender soda.
Where: Along Maharat Road, close to the intersection with Chakraphet Road and Saphan Phut night market. Take the river boat from the Skytrain Saphan Taksin station and disembark at the Saphan Phut pier, or cab it if you're visiting at night.
When: All day, every day, with floral action peaking after 2 a.m.
Ratchayothin Night Market
Ratchayothin Night MarketIn the big lot right beside Major Cineplex Ratchayothin, an open-air night market caters mainly to locals and moviegoers killing a few minutes before showtime.
The majority of the stalls hawk affordable fashion (as in, heavy on the Japanese and Korean influences), as well as cosmetics, jewelry, phone accessories and other kitsch.
Yuppies browse the goods on display, and there's a hipster bar overlooking the shopping area conveniently close by for the non-shopping enthusiasts.
Though always advisable to bring cash to go to a market, some of the stalls also accept credit cards should a retail wave wash over you.
Where: Adjacent to Major Cineplex Ratchayothin. The closest stations are Mo Chit and Phahonyothin. From there, take a cab or brave a motorbike taxi if the traffic looks bad.
When: Tuesday - Sunday, from 4 p.m.-11 p.m.
Saphan Phut Night Bazaar
Saphan Phut
The night market adjacent to Memorial Bridge (aka Saphan Phut) swarms with a younger local crowd, with secondhand items and cheap price tags that appeal to pre-workforce shoppers.
A variety of goods and services tempt the predominantly university student shoppers, from hookahs to handbags, tattoos to T-shirts.
The area under the bridge is a popular spot for local teenagers to hang out riverside, and caricaturists are often found sketching for a small fee.
One of the best snacks here is the squid eggs, served in a styrofoam bowl on a bed of raw veggies.
Stairs leading up to the bridge give you a nice view of the Chao Phraya River, and its proximity to the flower market makes for a two-stones outing to glimpse two facets of the local lifestyle.
Where: At the base of the Memorial Bridge, at the intersection of Maharat and Chakraphet roads. Take the river boat from the Skytrain Saphan Taksin station and disembark at the Saphan Phut pier, or cab it if you're visiting at night.
When: Tuesday = Sunday. Stalls start to set up around 6 p.m., with the market really kicking into gear around 8 p.m. until 2 a.m.
Ratchada Night Bazaar
RatchadaRachada Night Bazaar's origins as a vintage automobile swap meet are still very much evident in the market, with retro collectibles and mod fashion accessories sold from VW camper vans.
Also known as the "Vespa Market," these classic scooters still pepper the grounds, many of which are driven by the hip artsy Thai crowd that frequents the market.
Nostalgia-inducing goodies up for grabs include LPs, gramophones, typewriters and vintage everything -- toys, cameras, fans, posters. There's a fair amount of secondhand clothing and books recycled here as well.
For shoppers mourning the loss of the Suanlum Night Bazaar, work is underway to relocate the Bangkok mainstay to this area next year.
Where: At the junction of Ladprao and Rachadapisek roads. Take the train to Ladprao station, exit 1.
When: On Saturday, with the first vendors setting up around 6 p.m., sellers are out in full force from 8 p.m. until after midnight.
Talad Rot Fai
Train MarketAnother market playing to the romance of yesteryear is Talad Rot Fai. The bazaar's name is a nod to its location next to train tracks and disused creaky coaches.
Other than the hip attitude sported by the visiting clientele, all the wares on display here ooze old-school cool -- vintage toys, Matchbox cars, retro furniture, and Soviet-era pins -- with warm colored lightbulbs bathing the entire market in a dusty sepia ambiance.
Even if you don't purchase anything, it's an inviting place to hang out with a bevy at a pub decked out in wood and belting out classics from 1950's bubblegum pop to Johnny Cash, serenading the crowd.
Where: Take the train to Kamphaengphet station. Turn right at exit 1 and the market's a few blocks down on the right-hand side.
When: Saturday and Sunday from 2 p.m. to midnight.
Thai airline's sexy calendar too hot for the government
Thai airline's sexy calendar too hot for the government, Maxim models strip down for the Nok Air month tracker. No stranger to controversy, the CEO explains why it's not at all sexist
Thai low-cost carrier Nok Air has released a sexy calendar featuring models from Maxim magazine.
But not everyone in Thailand is comfortable seeing the female form displayed in such a fashion.
According to Thai media, the Ministry of Culture's Permanent Secretary, Prisana Pongtatpitakkul, says the calendar demonstrates that some businesses refuse to stop using women's bodies as a marketing tool.
"They lack the sense of social and cultural responsibility and ignore social and cultural repercussions -- particularly female dignity," she was quoted by The Nation.
The calendar, issued as part of an online promotion, features models in different outfits posing around Nok Air planes, including a shot with 12 women in yellow bikinis -- the airline's signature color.
Nok Air chief executive Patee Sarasin says the government's response to the calendar is unfortunate, but expected.
“Understanding the [Culture] Ministry, their reaction isn’t really a surprise, however, given what the public is exposed to on a daily basis, we believe that we have not crossed the line,” he tells CNN Travel.
“The airline business has always been seen as sexy globally, that is why our planes -- we believe they are well designed -- appropriately become the background of these models.”
Unlike the Culture Ministry, it would seem some members of the public wouldn't mind marking the passage of days with Nok Air's help.
“Most customers love the calendar and definitely want to own one," he says. "As of today, the calendar is becoming a hard-to-find commodity, and the requests for copies keep coming from all walks of life."
More on CNN: How one Thai budget carrier keeps its flight attendants young and hot
In spite of the verbal lashing, the Culture Ministry admitted the calendar isn't breaking any laws, therefore no action will be taken against Nok Air.
Thai Airways has a 49 percent stake in the airline, which is a joint venture between public and private investors. Thailand's Ministry of Finance owns 51 percent of Thai Airways, the country's flag carrier.
Tackling Thailand's image issues
Nok Air's Patee is known for his unconventional marketing tactics.
In 2011, he was in the news for confirming that the airline hires only young flight attendants on short contracts while replacing older cabin crew to rejuvenate brand image and appeal to passengers.
"The idea of keeping our attendants young is because we believe young girls, being new at their profession, would be more passionate in serving our customers because their focus is more on their career," he says of the controversy.
"We also aim to keep the airline young to meet our brand positioning."
Unlike some global airlines, Patee points out that Nok Air's calendar features professional models rather than airline crew members -- "Different professions entirely."
More on CNN: Ryanair busts out 2012 cabin girls calendar
“We believe that the pictures posted are not ugly," he says. "[This calendar provides an] opportunity for these girls to be exposed in a professional way with a leading company and not always limited to being just a sex symbol.”
Thailand's Ministry of Culture says it's unfortunate that companies continue to use the female body as a marketing tool. But Prisana says such marketing tools contribute to foreigners' negative attitude toward Thai women, something all parties in Thai society need to lend a hand in fixing.
The government official's comments come on the heels of a separate controversy involving a recent "Saturday Night Live" sketch.
The NBC program featured a mock TV commercial for language software company Rosetta Stone that implied the only reason people learn Thai is to come to Thailand to engage in prostitution.
The Thai government reportedly complained to the U.S. embassy in Bangkok that the clip was offensive, while internet forums and comments boards filled with opposing views.
Some feel it's time the world stops associating Thailand with the same old sexual stereotypes, while others focus on the hypocrisy of Thailand's outrage, given prostitution is hardly hidden from public view.
What are your thoughts on the government's reaction to the calendar and SNL sketch? Share your views in the comments box below.
Thai low-cost carrier Nok Air has released a sexy calendar featuring models from Maxim magazine.
But not everyone in Thailand is comfortable seeing the female form displayed in such a fashion.
According to Thai media, the Ministry of Culture's Permanent Secretary, Prisana Pongtatpitakkul, says the calendar demonstrates that some businesses refuse to stop using women's bodies as a marketing tool.
"They lack the sense of social and cultural responsibility and ignore social and cultural repercussions -- particularly female dignity," she was quoted by The Nation.
The calendar, issued as part of an online promotion, features models in different outfits posing around Nok Air planes, including a shot with 12 women in yellow bikinis -- the airline's signature color.
Nok Air chief executive Patee Sarasin says the government's response to the calendar is unfortunate, but expected.
“Understanding the [Culture] Ministry, their reaction isn’t really a surprise, however, given what the public is exposed to on a daily basis, we believe that we have not crossed the line,” he tells CNN Travel.
“The airline business has always been seen as sexy globally, that is why our planes -- we believe they are well designed -- appropriately become the background of these models.”
Unlike the Culture Ministry, it would seem some members of the public wouldn't mind marking the passage of days with Nok Air's help.
“Most customers love the calendar and definitely want to own one," he says. "As of today, the calendar is becoming a hard-to-find commodity, and the requests for copies keep coming from all walks of life."
More on CNN: How one Thai budget carrier keeps its flight attendants young and hot
In spite of the verbal lashing, the Culture Ministry admitted the calendar isn't breaking any laws, therefore no action will be taken against Nok Air.
Thai Airways has a 49 percent stake in the airline, which is a joint venture between public and private investors. Thailand's Ministry of Finance owns 51 percent of Thai Airways, the country's flag carrier.
Tackling Thailand's image issues
Nok Air's Patee is known for his unconventional marketing tactics.
In 2011, he was in the news for confirming that the airline hires only young flight attendants on short contracts while replacing older cabin crew to rejuvenate brand image and appeal to passengers.
"The idea of keeping our attendants young is because we believe young girls, being new at their profession, would be more passionate in serving our customers because their focus is more on their career," he says of the controversy.
"We also aim to keep the airline young to meet our brand positioning."
Unlike some global airlines, Patee points out that Nok Air's calendar features professional models rather than airline crew members -- "Different professions entirely."
More on CNN: Ryanair busts out 2012 cabin girls calendar
“We believe that the pictures posted are not ugly," he says. "[This calendar provides an] opportunity for these girls to be exposed in a professional way with a leading company and not always limited to being just a sex symbol.”
Thailand's Ministry of Culture says it's unfortunate that companies continue to use the female body as a marketing tool. But Prisana says such marketing tools contribute to foreigners' negative attitude toward Thai women, something all parties in Thai society need to lend a hand in fixing.
The government official's comments come on the heels of a separate controversy involving a recent "Saturday Night Live" sketch.
The NBC program featured a mock TV commercial for language software company Rosetta Stone that implied the only reason people learn Thai is to come to Thailand to engage in prostitution.
The Thai government reportedly complained to the U.S. embassy in Bangkok that the clip was offensive, while internet forums and comments boards filled with opposing views.
Some feel it's time the world stops associating Thailand with the same old sexual stereotypes, while others focus on the hypocrisy of Thailand's outrage, given prostitution is hardly hidden from public view.
What are your thoughts on the government's reaction to the calendar and SNL sketch? Share your views in the comments box below.
Bangkok Novotel Suvarnabhumi Airport Hotel
Bangkok Novotel Suvarnabhumi Airport Hotel
The ultra-modern hotel is located just a three-minute walk from the airport’s main terminal connected by a 200 metre, air-conditioned underground walkway. A direct rail link currently under construction will connect the hotel to existing transport systems, downtown Bangkok and its central business districts by early 2008.
The Novotel features 612 rooms in two square-shaped five-storey buildings, covering 10.5 hectares, with large open atrium areas in the centre of each structure. The two buildings are also joined by another massive glass atrium designed as the hotel lobby. With a lobby covering 2,800sqm five-stories in height, the Novotel Suvarnabhumi Airport Hotel boasts the largest hotel lobby in the world.
The unique design allows for greater environmental control and incorporates the outdoor atrium areas for swimming and recreation.
Novotel Suvarnabhumi Airport Hotel is aiming to establish itself as the airport’s premium dining area with four restaurants and a bar. The Novotel brand’s innovative all day dining outlet, The Square, serves a variety of popular Western and Asian dishes from an open show kitchen a la minute, showcasing world cuisine with monthly food promotions and specials. Authentic Thai cuisine is offered at Sala Thai Pavilion, while guests can enjoy a choice of either Cantonese cuisine at Gold Village Chinese Restaurant or Sushi and Teppanyaki at Kinsen Japanese Restaurant. The hotel’s Atrium Terrace Lobby Lounge adds a perfect venue to unwind and relax.
leisure facilities include a 25-metre swimming pool surrounded by tropical gardens, fitness centre, extensive spa facilities, beauty salon, shopping arcade, Dolfi Kid’s Corner and babysitting service.
Novotel Suvarnabhumi Airport Hotel caters to Bangkok’s growing meeting and event markets with more than 2,400sqm of space including a pillar-less ballroom for up to 800 people and 6 additional meeting rooms. It is also well positioned for delegates attending events at the nearby BITEC Convention and Exhibition Centre.
The hotel joins an extensive network of over 60 Accor airport hotels in 18 countries, including 20 under the Novotel brand. These include hotels at some of the world’s busiest airports in cities such as Paris, London, Frankfurt, Chicago and Sydney.
Novotel Suvarnabhumi Airport Hotel is one of the few Accor’s major airport hotels opened in Asia in the last several years following the opening of Novotel Citygate near Hong Kong International Airport in 1998. Pullman Baiyun Airport Guangzhou, which opened in 2007 and Novotel Taipei Taoyuan Airport opened in 2009.
According to Accor Asia Pacific Managing Director Michael Issenberg, Novotel Suvarnabhumi Airport sets a new standard for four-star hotels in Bangkok, and will make a significant contribution to Thailand’s tourism industry which is enjoying unprecedented growth.
“Novotel Suvarnabhumi Airport Hotel will be a stylish addition to the new Suvarnabhumi International Airport and its opening reflects the growing importance of Bangkok as the primary entry point to the country and Southeast Asia as a whole, with the hotel providing an ideal base for visiting business, leisure or transit travelers, as well as being a major new venue for conferences and events.”
A side benefit of the opening of the new airport will be the close proximity of Pattaya, a famous Thai beach destination that has recently completely upgraded its image, attractions and tourism infrastructure. Pattaya will now be just over an hour’s drive from the airport, and two Accor hotels – the Sofitel-managed Garden Cliff Resort & Spa and Mercure Pattaya – have opened in the past year to cater for the growth in domestic and international visitor numbers.
Opening rates for the hotel begin at Baht2380++ per night, valid till the airport officially opens on 28 September, when the rates will start from Baht3380++ per night. Packages including spa treatments and added extras will also be available.
Bookings for the new Novotel Suvarnabhumi Airport Hotel and other Accor hotels in Thailand can be made via www.accorhotels.com/asia , via travel agents or Accor Reservations.
Novotel Suvarnabhumi Airport Hotel – contact details:
Racha-Taeva, Bangpli , Samutprakarn 10540 Thailand
Tel : +66 2 131 1111
Fax: +66 2 131 1188
The ultra-modern hotel is located just a three-minute walk from the airport’s main terminal connected by a 200 metre, air-conditioned underground walkway. A direct rail link currently under construction will connect the hotel to existing transport systems, downtown Bangkok and its central business districts by early 2008.
The Novotel features 612 rooms in two square-shaped five-storey buildings, covering 10.5 hectares, with large open atrium areas in the centre of each structure. The two buildings are also joined by another massive glass atrium designed as the hotel lobby. With a lobby covering 2,800sqm five-stories in height, the Novotel Suvarnabhumi Airport Hotel boasts the largest hotel lobby in the world.
The unique design allows for greater environmental control and incorporates the outdoor atrium areas for swimming and recreation.
Novotel Suvarnabhumi Airport Hotel is aiming to establish itself as the airport’s premium dining area with four restaurants and a bar. The Novotel brand’s innovative all day dining outlet, The Square, serves a variety of popular Western and Asian dishes from an open show kitchen a la minute, showcasing world cuisine with monthly food promotions and specials. Authentic Thai cuisine is offered at Sala Thai Pavilion, while guests can enjoy a choice of either Cantonese cuisine at Gold Village Chinese Restaurant or Sushi and Teppanyaki at Kinsen Japanese Restaurant. The hotel’s Atrium Terrace Lobby Lounge adds a perfect venue to unwind and relax.
leisure facilities include a 25-metre swimming pool surrounded by tropical gardens, fitness centre, extensive spa facilities, beauty salon, shopping arcade, Dolfi Kid’s Corner and babysitting service.
Novotel Suvarnabhumi Airport Hotel caters to Bangkok’s growing meeting and event markets with more than 2,400sqm of space including a pillar-less ballroom for up to 800 people and 6 additional meeting rooms. It is also well positioned for delegates attending events at the nearby BITEC Convention and Exhibition Centre.
The hotel joins an extensive network of over 60 Accor airport hotels in 18 countries, including 20 under the Novotel brand. These include hotels at some of the world’s busiest airports in cities such as Paris, London, Frankfurt, Chicago and Sydney.
Novotel Suvarnabhumi Airport Hotel is one of the few Accor’s major airport hotels opened in Asia in the last several years following the opening of Novotel Citygate near Hong Kong International Airport in 1998. Pullman Baiyun Airport Guangzhou, which opened in 2007 and Novotel Taipei Taoyuan Airport opened in 2009.
According to Accor Asia Pacific Managing Director Michael Issenberg, Novotel Suvarnabhumi Airport sets a new standard for four-star hotels in Bangkok, and will make a significant contribution to Thailand’s tourism industry which is enjoying unprecedented growth.
“Novotel Suvarnabhumi Airport Hotel will be a stylish addition to the new Suvarnabhumi International Airport and its opening reflects the growing importance of Bangkok as the primary entry point to the country and Southeast Asia as a whole, with the hotel providing an ideal base for visiting business, leisure or transit travelers, as well as being a major new venue for conferences and events.”
A side benefit of the opening of the new airport will be the close proximity of Pattaya, a famous Thai beach destination that has recently completely upgraded its image, attractions and tourism infrastructure. Pattaya will now be just over an hour’s drive from the airport, and two Accor hotels – the Sofitel-managed Garden Cliff Resort & Spa and Mercure Pattaya – have opened in the past year to cater for the growth in domestic and international visitor numbers.
Opening rates for the hotel begin at Baht2380++ per night, valid till the airport officially opens on 28 September, when the rates will start from Baht3380++ per night. Packages including spa treatments and added extras will also be available.
Bookings for the new Novotel Suvarnabhumi Airport Hotel and other Accor hotels in Thailand can be made via www.accorhotels.com/asia , via travel agents or Accor Reservations.
Novotel Suvarnabhumi Airport Hotel – contact details:
Racha-Taeva, Bangpli , Samutprakarn 10540 Thailand
Tel : +66 2 131 1111
Fax: +66 2 131 1188
The Definitive "How To Catch A Cab At Bangkok Airport" Thread
The Definitive "How To Catch A Cab At Bangkok Airport" Thread
Since I see this question asked constantly online, I am going to post a response for people to find when they do a web search for the answer.
If you are landing at Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport (airport code BKK), taking a taxi to your hotel in central Bangkok is relatively simple, but there are a few things you need to know. (The public taxi line is in a non-intuitive corner of the airport, and the signage leading to it is poor; I’m sure this has nothing to do with the fact that the airport authority operates a competing fleet of "limousines.")
After baggage claim and customs (you will rarely be stopped by customs if you are a Westerner in the green channel), you will walk into an arrivals hall on the second floor of the airport. You will see hotel drivers holding name cards, as well as an array of airport businesses such as money changers, newsstands, coffee shops, etc., lined up against a magnificent five-storey glass wall facing the outside.
As you emerge from the baggage and customs area, various Thais – mostly women in vaguely professional-looking dresses and suits – will say “Taxi.” Ignore them. Also ignore everybody who says “hotel” or asks you where you are going or tries to get your attention. They are touts on the make.
In the arrivals hall, change a few hundred dollars, pounds or euros into Thai baht. You will receive most of your money in 1,000-baht notes (currently worth US$28.57 each), which are too large for day-to-day purchases at Thai prices. Have the money changer break one or two 1,000-baht notes into a stack of 100-baht notes.
(The money changers accept all the major convertible currencies as well as many East Asian currencies. All of the money changers at the airport offer the same exchange rate, with no stated commission. In fact, most of the money changers throughout Bangkok offer similar rates; this is not a place like Bali with wild variations. Hotels offer poor rates, as do Islamic banks.)
Face the giant wall of glass that looks outside. Turn left. Walk to the end of the arrivals hall, turn right and walk outside.
You will be slapped by the humidity. Welcome to Thailand.
You will see two or three somewhat incongruous office-type desks near the curb, probably with a line of passengers in front of them. Get in line.
At the front of the line, a Thai sitting at the desk will ask you where you are going. His or her job is to determine your destination and communicate it to the taxi driver, who will speak little if any English. An English-language map printed from your hotel’s web site will help; a Thai-language map will help more.
The person at the desk will assign you a taxi from the line of waiting hacks. He or she will give you a red-and-black form containing, among other information, your driver’s name and license plate number. Do not tip the person at the desk (or anyone else in Thailand).
The taxi driver will offer to stow your luggage in the trunk of the cab. Go right ahead. Thailand is not the type of place where the drivers hold the luggage for ransom.
The taxi will probably have a seat belt but no buckle to click it into. Get used to that.
The cabbie may ask if you want to take the highway. Say “Up to you.” He – most are men – will know the route with the least traffic at that specific time. The trip into the city will take about 45 minutes.
The fare to central Bangkok will cost about 300 baht (US$8.57). You owe an additional 50 baht (US$1.43) for the services of the airport taxi desk, payable to the driver. If the driver takes the tollway, you will owe about another 70 baht (US$1.71) in tolls. Approaching the first toll gate, I usually hand the driver a 100-baht note and say “tolls.”
Since I see this question asked constantly online, I am going to post a response for people to find when they do a web search for the answer.
If you are landing at Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport (airport code BKK), taking a taxi to your hotel in central Bangkok is relatively simple, but there are a few things you need to know. (The public taxi line is in a non-intuitive corner of the airport, and the signage leading to it is poor; I’m sure this has nothing to do with the fact that the airport authority operates a competing fleet of "limousines.")
After baggage claim and customs (you will rarely be stopped by customs if you are a Westerner in the green channel), you will walk into an arrivals hall on the second floor of the airport. You will see hotel drivers holding name cards, as well as an array of airport businesses such as money changers, newsstands, coffee shops, etc., lined up against a magnificent five-storey glass wall facing the outside.
As you emerge from the baggage and customs area, various Thais – mostly women in vaguely professional-looking dresses and suits – will say “Taxi.” Ignore them. Also ignore everybody who says “hotel” or asks you where you are going or tries to get your attention. They are touts on the make.
In the arrivals hall, change a few hundred dollars, pounds or euros into Thai baht. You will receive most of your money in 1,000-baht notes (currently worth US$28.57 each), which are too large for day-to-day purchases at Thai prices. Have the money changer break one or two 1,000-baht notes into a stack of 100-baht notes.
(The money changers accept all the major convertible currencies as well as many East Asian currencies. All of the money changers at the airport offer the same exchange rate, with no stated commission. In fact, most of the money changers throughout Bangkok offer similar rates; this is not a place like Bali with wild variations. Hotels offer poor rates, as do Islamic banks.)
Face the giant wall of glass that looks outside. Turn left. Walk to the end of the arrivals hall, turn right and walk outside.
You will be slapped by the humidity. Welcome to Thailand.
You will see two or three somewhat incongruous office-type desks near the curb, probably with a line of passengers in front of them. Get in line.
At the front of the line, a Thai sitting at the desk will ask you where you are going. His or her job is to determine your destination and communicate it to the taxi driver, who will speak little if any English. An English-language map printed from your hotel’s web site will help; a Thai-language map will help more.
The person at the desk will assign you a taxi from the line of waiting hacks. He or she will give you a red-and-black form containing, among other information, your driver’s name and license plate number. Do not tip the person at the desk (or anyone else in Thailand).
The taxi driver will offer to stow your luggage in the trunk of the cab. Go right ahead. Thailand is not the type of place where the drivers hold the luggage for ransom.
The taxi will probably have a seat belt but no buckle to click it into. Get used to that.
The cabbie may ask if you want to take the highway. Say “Up to you.” He – most are men – will know the route with the least traffic at that specific time. The trip into the city will take about 45 minutes.
The fare to central Bangkok will cost about 300 baht (US$8.57). You owe an additional 50 baht (US$1.43) for the services of the airport taxi desk, payable to the driver. If the driver takes the tollway, you will owe about another 70 baht (US$1.71) in tolls. Approaching the first toll gate, I usually hand the driver a 100-baht note and say “tolls.”
Bangkok Airport Public Taxi Service, When you first arrive at Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok ...
Bangkok Airport Public Taxi Service
When you first arrive at Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok, Thailand and are looking for a taxi, you'll find it might be a bit overwhelming. Taxis at airports should be the easiest things to find but, because of all the options (and the unscrupulous people trying to trick you into higher priced taxis), it can be a bit intimidating. I'm a long-time Bangkok expat resident and take taxis all the time from Suvarnabhumi Airport, so I know all the tricks. Follow these simple tips and, the next time you arrive at Suvarnabhumi Airport, you'll find yourself in a taxi two minutes after coming out of Immigration and you won't have been ripped off in the process.
Ignore the Taxi Touts - The first thing you'll notice as you come through and out of Bangkok Immigration is a throng of people waiting on either side of a metal barrier. Most will be waiting for people coming in on arriving flights but some of them are the taxi touts. These are the men and women who stand holding placards showing different taxi companies and shout "Taxi? Taxi?" as you head towards them. Don't even meet their eye, as any eye contact is seen as an invitation for business. Just keep walking past them pushing your cart and out into the airport itself. Taxi touts are the worst welcome any newcomer to Bangkok can meet. For a typical 200 baht taxi ride from Suvarnabhumi Airport, a taxi tout will charge you 800-1,000 baht or more, so getting a taxi from a taxi tout is the last thing you want to do.
Getting a Taxi - Keep walking through the throng, past the banks and out into the main area. Here you'll see the doors to outside and that's where you want to go. You can take your luggage cart outside so, go through the very large revolving doors and into the open air. Outside these main doors, walk towards the curb and you'll see, to your left or to your right, a small table with a couple of people sitting at it. This is where you go to get a taxi. Walk up to the table and tell one of the people the address where you are going. She will fill in a little coupon, hand it to you and the next available taxi driver will come and get you and your luggage and put you safely in the car. Tell him again the address of the place you are going to be sure he has the correct one and, off you go. The trip from Suvarnabhumi Airport into many places in Bangkok is less than 30 minutes, depending on traffic. Be aware of two things -
a) Make sure the taxi driver puts the meter on before he pulls away from the curb. Meters have to be on in taxis in Thailand by law, but some taxi drivers will try to get away with ignoring the law. Usually, the driver will turn the meter on when you ask them to. If he doesn't, threaten to get out and that is usually all he needs to follow your instructions. Overall though, I would say this only happens to me one out of every 30 or so trips, so it's not too big of a problem.
b) When the driver drops you off at your destination, the final taxi fare will be the price on the meter plus an additional 50 baht. The airport charges a surcharge of 50 baht, which you will see listed on the coupon they gave you at the table. So, don't worry, if the taxi driver asks for another 50 baht above the fare, he's really not trying to rip you off.
Getting a Taxi Without the 50 Baht Charge -Some 'cheap' expats will try to avoid the 50 baht fee by going to the Departures level and grabbing a taxi from someone who is just arriving at the airport. If you get one of these taxis, they don't charge the extra 50 baht fee. But, it's a hassle to do this, you end up having to walk too far and, if you don't know where you're going, it's easy to get lost. For an extra 50 baht (around $1.40), I recommend you just pay it, rather than taking the chance of wasting a lot of time or getting lost only to save just over a buck.
Taking the Toll Roads in a Taxi - If the taxi driver asks you if you want to take the toll road, unless you're arriving in the middle of the night when traffic isn't bad, I would let him do that. It will only cost you an extra $2 or so for the toll fees but, in the middle of the day, can literally save you an hour in travelling time and an extra hour in a taxi will cost you a lot more than $2. There will be a few toll booths between the airport and your destination with a charge of between 20 and 40 baht per booth. As the driver comes up to the booth, just hand him some money (100 baht is fine) and he'll give you your change and the receipt as soon as he's paid the toll.
Getting a taxi at Suvarnabhumi Airport is easy and not too expensive. To most destinations in the greater Bangkok area, you should no more than $5 to $10 for a taxi ride. Some of the drivers will also speak a little English and, if you're in the mood, they love to practice with their customers.
When you first arrive at Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok, Thailand and are looking for a taxi, you'll find it might be a bit overwhelming. Taxis at airports should be the easiest things to find but, because of all the options (and the unscrupulous people trying to trick you into higher priced taxis), it can be a bit intimidating. I'm a long-time Bangkok expat resident and take taxis all the time from Suvarnabhumi Airport, so I know all the tricks. Follow these simple tips and, the next time you arrive at Suvarnabhumi Airport, you'll find yourself in a taxi two minutes after coming out of Immigration and you won't have been ripped off in the process.
Ignore the Taxi Touts - The first thing you'll notice as you come through and out of Bangkok Immigration is a throng of people waiting on either side of a metal barrier. Most will be waiting for people coming in on arriving flights but some of them are the taxi touts. These are the men and women who stand holding placards showing different taxi companies and shout "Taxi? Taxi?" as you head towards them. Don't even meet their eye, as any eye contact is seen as an invitation for business. Just keep walking past them pushing your cart and out into the airport itself. Taxi touts are the worst welcome any newcomer to Bangkok can meet. For a typical 200 baht taxi ride from Suvarnabhumi Airport, a taxi tout will charge you 800-1,000 baht or more, so getting a taxi from a taxi tout is the last thing you want to do.
Getting a Taxi - Keep walking through the throng, past the banks and out into the main area. Here you'll see the doors to outside and that's where you want to go. You can take your luggage cart outside so, go through the very large revolving doors and into the open air. Outside these main doors, walk towards the curb and you'll see, to your left or to your right, a small table with a couple of people sitting at it. This is where you go to get a taxi. Walk up to the table and tell one of the people the address where you are going. She will fill in a little coupon, hand it to you and the next available taxi driver will come and get you and your luggage and put you safely in the car. Tell him again the address of the place you are going to be sure he has the correct one and, off you go. The trip from Suvarnabhumi Airport into many places in Bangkok is less than 30 minutes, depending on traffic. Be aware of two things -
a) Make sure the taxi driver puts the meter on before he pulls away from the curb. Meters have to be on in taxis in Thailand by law, but some taxi drivers will try to get away with ignoring the law. Usually, the driver will turn the meter on when you ask them to. If he doesn't, threaten to get out and that is usually all he needs to follow your instructions. Overall though, I would say this only happens to me one out of every 30 or so trips, so it's not too big of a problem.
b) When the driver drops you off at your destination, the final taxi fare will be the price on the meter plus an additional 50 baht. The airport charges a surcharge of 50 baht, which you will see listed on the coupon they gave you at the table. So, don't worry, if the taxi driver asks for another 50 baht above the fare, he's really not trying to rip you off.
Getting a Taxi Without the 50 Baht Charge -Some 'cheap' expats will try to avoid the 50 baht fee by going to the Departures level and grabbing a taxi from someone who is just arriving at the airport. If you get one of these taxis, they don't charge the extra 50 baht fee. But, it's a hassle to do this, you end up having to walk too far and, if you don't know where you're going, it's easy to get lost. For an extra 50 baht (around $1.40), I recommend you just pay it, rather than taking the chance of wasting a lot of time or getting lost only to save just over a buck.
Taking the Toll Roads in a Taxi - If the taxi driver asks you if you want to take the toll road, unless you're arriving in the middle of the night when traffic isn't bad, I would let him do that. It will only cost you an extra $2 or so for the toll fees but, in the middle of the day, can literally save you an hour in travelling time and an extra hour in a taxi will cost you a lot more than $2. There will be a few toll booths between the airport and your destination with a charge of between 20 and 40 baht per booth. As the driver comes up to the booth, just hand him some money (100 baht is fine) and he'll give you your change and the receipt as soon as he's paid the toll.
Getting a taxi at Suvarnabhumi Airport is easy and not too expensive. To most destinations in the greater Bangkok area, you should no more than $5 to $10 for a taxi ride. Some of the drivers will also speak a little English and, if you're in the mood, they love to practice with their customers.
Đăng ký:
Nhận xét (Atom)