จันทบุรี/Information of CHANTHABURI

General Information
Famous for its abundance of tropical fruits and as a centre of gems, the eastern province of Chanthaburi is also blessed with rich, verdant forests with scenic waterfalls. The Chanthaburi River flows through the town which has been the home of ancient communities. Quiet fishing villages and peaceful beaches are not far from town.

Chanthaburi was occupied by the French during the early part of the20th century. Their influence can be seen in the architecture of many buildings including the largest Catholic cathedral in Thailand, catering to a sizeable Christian population.

About 245 kilometres from Bangkok and covering an area of 6,338 square kilometers, Chanthaburi as administratively divided into the following districts:- Mueang Chanthaburi, Tha Mai, Khlung, Laem Sing, Pong Nam Ron, Makham, Soi Dao, Na Yai Am, Kang Hang Maeo and Khao Khitchakut sub-district.

How to get there
Car
From Bangkok, take Highway No. 34 (Bang Na-Trat) or Motorway to Chonburi, then use Highway No. 344 (Ban Bung-Klaeng) and proceed to Chanthaburi along Highway No. 3.

Bus
Both air-conditioned and non air-conditioned buses depart from Eastern Bus Terminal (Ekkamai) to Chanthaburi every hour from 4 a.m.-midnight. For more information, contact Transport Co. Ltd at Tel: 0 2391 2504; Choet Chai Tour Tel: 0 2391 4146; Phonnipha Tour Tel: 0 2391 5179.

Festivals
Fruit Festival
Annually held in May, the fair aims to promote local products and various kinds of fruit grown in the province. The fair features exhibitions on agricultural innovations as well as agricultural products. Stalls selling local crafts, jewellery, food products and seafood make the fair fun to visit. Besides, visitors get to see how famous local products such as preserved durian are made; or they can have a good time watching a fruit contest and a beauty contest. Central to the fair is a procession of cars lavishly laden with the famous fruit of Chanthaburi heading along the road to the venue.

เกาะกุฎี/ Ko Kudee

เกาะกุฎี เป็นเกาะหนึ่งในวรรณกรรมของสุนทรภู่ เช่นเดียวกับเกาะแก้วพิสดาร อยู่ทางทิศตะวันออก ของเกาะเสม็ด ห่างจากฝั่งประมาณ 6 กิโลเมตร มีเนื้อที่ประมาณ 100 ไร่ และมีลูกเกาะบริวาร 2 เกาะ คือ เกาะท้ายค้างคาว และเกาะถ้ำฤษี เกาะกุฎีเป็นจุดที่ทำการหน่วยย่อยของอุทยานฯ มีธรรมชาติที่เงียบสงบ หาดทรายสวยงาม โดยรอบเกาะมีแนวปะการัง ตลอดชายฝั่งเหมาะแก่การดำน้ำดูปะการัง การเดินทางต้อง เช่าเรือจากบ้านเพ

Ko Kudee เกาะกุฎี
It lies approximately 6 kilometers offshore. Besides Ko Kudee there are two smaller islands, one is Ko
Khangkhao and another is Ko Ruesee Cave. All three islands lie a little to the east of Ko Samet.
The islands have beautiful natural landscapes and ringed by fine beaches which are ideal for swimming
and camping on.

หาดแม่รำพึง-บ้านก้นอ่าว/ Mae Rumphueng Beach

หาดแม่รำพึง-บ้านก้นอ่าว จากถนนสุขุมวิท มีทางแยกขวาที่กิโลเมตร 229 เข้าหาดแม่รำพึง ชายหาด มีความยาว 12 กิโลเมตร ถนน เลียบชายหาดยาว 10 กิโลเมตร ชายหาดสะอาด มีความลาดชันน้อย เหมาะแก่- การเล่นน้ำ สุดชายหาดเป็น ที่ตั้งของบ้านก้นอ่าว ซึ่งเป็นหมู่บ้านประมงเล็ก ๆ

Mae Rumphueng Beach หาดแม่ระพึง-บ้านก้นอ่าว
The beach, some 10 kilometers long, is located between Ban Tapong and Ban Kon Ao,11 kilometers from
town, and sited within the Khao Laem Yah - Ko Samet Group National Park. This is a particularly beautiful
spot with a headland forming a magnificent backdrop to a crescent shaped bay with broad sandy beaches
which are ideal for swimming.
Ban Kon Ao This is a typical fishing village, some 22 kilometers from town, which is dominated by a temple
with seats a top hill overlooking the shoreline. The area is subject to wind and sea erosing. The palm trees
appear to be standing on sand pedestals, which appear to be help together only by the roots of the trees.

ระยอง/Information of RAYONG

General Information
Located approximately 220 kilometers from Bangkok is another delightful resort on Thailand’s eastern coast – Rayong province. A late bloomer, the province is well known for its pristine beaches stretching along a 100-kilometer coastline and scenic waterfalls amidst exotic surroundings. Aside from this, Rayong is blessed with an abundance of seafood products such as shrimp paste, fish sauce and dried seafood, and tropical fruits of which rambutan, mangosteen and durian are the most famous.

Covering a total area of 3,552 square kilometers, Rayong borders Chonburi Province on the north and the west, the Gulf of Thailand on the south, and Chantaburi Province on the east. Most of the land is marked by a series of mountains interspersed by flat plains and large tracts of forest and fruit plantations. Administratively, the province is divided into Mueang Rayong, Klaeng, Ban Khai, Bang Chang, Pluak Daeng and Wang Chan districts and Khao Chamao and Nikhom Phatthana Sub-districts.

Boasting indispensable sea-life resources, Rayong is one of the country’s major agricultural and industrial provinces. On the other hand, the province has maintained its traditions and customs in the daily lifestyle of the locals. The best months to visit Rayong are from November to February.

The Past
During the late Ayutthaya period, when the former capital was being razed to the ground by the invading Burmese, Phaya Tak led a troop of patriots, broke through the cordon of besieging troops and marched to Rayong in order to build up his navy before proceeding on to Chanthaburi. Because of his courage and bravery, the soldiers and local population anointed him as "King" in Rayong. Once he had built up sufficient troop strength, Phaya Tak who later became King Taksin of the Kingdom of Thonburi returned to Ayutthaya, routed the Burmese and set up a new capital in Thonburi.

How to get there
By Car
Route No.1
Sukhumvit Road (Highway No.3): Starting from Bangkok passes Bangpu District, Chonburi town, Bangsaen, Sri Racha District, Pattaya, Hat Jomtien, Sattahip District, Ban Chang District to arrive in the center of Rayong Province. The total distance is 220 kilometers.

Route No.2
The most popular route, starting from Bangna-Trat Road (Highway No.34) via Bang Phli and Bang Bo District (Samut Prakan Province) and Highway No.3 at km. 70. The total distance is 220.

Route No.3
Drive along Highway No.3 to Bang Lamung, then turn off of Highway No.3 at Km.140 and continue on Highway No.36 to Rayong. Total distance is 210 kilometers.

Route No.4
Taking Highway No.344 (Ban Bung-Klaeng) at Chonburi town, passing Ban Bung, Nong Yai, Wang Chan and finishing at Klaeng District, Rayong Province. The total distance is 100 kilometers. (Bangkok-Chonburi is 80 kilometers)

This route is suitable for those who like to go sightseeing in Klaeng District and Khao Chamao-Khao Wong National Park or passing through Chanthaburi Province.

Route No.5
Use the Motorway, starting from Phatthanakarn Road, Prawet District, Bangkok and drive all the way up to Pattaya (120 kilometers), then switch to use Highway No.36 and proceed for another 50 kilometers to Rayong.

By Air
Bangkok Airways operates one flight everyday from Phuket via Ko Samui to Rayong-U Ta Pao International Airport. For more information contact Bangkok Airways in Bangkok, Tel :(662) 265 5555 or travel agencies in Rayong.

By Bus
Rayong is the gateway from the east to the north and northeast. As such, there are many regular bus services connecting Rayong and Bangkok and other province such as Chiang Mai, Nakhon Ratchasima and Nong Khai.

Festivals
Rayong Fruit Fair
Rayong Fruit Fair , held around May-June, is designed to promote and market fruits and other products made from fruits and seafood of the province. Colorful fruit-decorated floats vie for prizes. There are fruit contests and agricultural exhibitions.

Sunthon Phu Day
Sunthon Phu Day is held annually on 26 June, the date of his birth. Sunthon Phu was the early Rattanakosin Period’s foremost poet, and his poems are widely acclaimed for their lyrical verse and pictorial language. The best of his poems is the epic romance Phra Aphai Mani. In 1986, he was listed as a person of international literary distinction by UNESCO. Activities include a procession of cars featuring Sunthon Phu’s literary works, competitions on poetry writing and painting of scenes from Sunthon Phu’s poetry.

The Robing of the Phra Chedi Klang Nam
The Robing of the Phra Chedi Klang Nam is a traditional fair held annually during the full-moon period of the 12th lunar month, coinciding with Loi Krathong Festival in November. Held at Wat Pak Nam in Mueang district, there are religious rites, long boat races, a delightful Loi Krathong and other pleasant entertainment.

จังหวัดระยอง ตั้งอยู่ในพื้นที่ชายฝั่งทะเลภาคตะวันออกของประเทศไทย อยู่ห่างจากกรุงเทพฯ 179 กิโลเมตร มีชายฝั่งทะเลยาวประมาณ 100 กิโลเมตร มีเนื้อที่ 3,552 ตารางกิโลเมตร เป็นแหล่งอาหารทะเล และผลไม้นานาชนิด เป็นเมืองอุตสาหกรรม และเป็นที่ตั้งของโครงการพัฒนาพื้นที่ชายฝั่งทะเลตะวันออก ซึ่งมีความสำคัญต่อการพัฒนาเศรษฐกิจของประเทศ รวมทั้งเป็นเมืองท่องเที่ยวชายทะเลที่สำคัญ แบ่งการปกครองออกเป็น 6 อำเภอ 2 กิ่งอำเภอ ประกอบด้วย อำเภอเมืองระยอง อำเภอแกลง อำเภอบ้านค่าย อำเภอบ้านฉาง อำเภอปลวกแดง อำเภอวังจันทร์ กิ่งอำเภอเขาชะเมา และกิ่งอำเภอนิคมพัฒนา

ระยอง เริ่มปรากฏชื่อในพงศาวดารเมื่อปีพุทธศักราช 2113 ในรัชสมัยของสมเด็จพระมหาธรรมราชาแห่งกรุงศรีอยุธยา สันนิษฐานว่าเมืองนี้ก่อตั้งขึ้นเมื่อประมาณปีพุทธศักราช 1500 ยุคที่ขอมมีอานุภาพเฟื่องฟูแถบดินแดนสุวรรณภูมิ ปรากฏจากหลักฐาน คือ ซากศิลาแลง คูค่ายที่ยังหลงเหลืออยู่ในเขตอำเภอบ้านค่าย อันเป็นศิลปะการก่อสร้างแบบขอม

ประวัติศาสตร์กล่าวถึงเมืองระยอง ระหว่างที่กรุงศรีอยุธยาใกล้จะเสียทีแก่พม่าเป็น ครั้งที่ 2 ในรัชสมัยของพระเจ้าเอกทัศน์ ปีพุทธศักราช 2309 พระยาวชิรปราการ หรือพระยาตาก พร้อมไพร่พลประมาณ 500 คน ได้ตีฝ่าวงล้อมทัพพม่า มาหยุดพักไพร่พลที่เมืองระยองก่อนเดินทัพต่อไปยังเมืองจันทบุรี เพื่อยึดเป็นที่ตั้งมั่นในการกอบกู้อิสรภาพคืนจากพม่าในปีพุทธศักราช 2311

Payoon and Pala Beach หาดพยูนและหาดพลง
Located in Ban Chang district about 33 and 36 kilometers Natural Beauty respectively from Rayong Town.
Both beaches are connected, peaceful and eminently suitable for swimming. Here visitors have choice of
accommodation from luxurious hotel to economy bungalows.
อุทยานแห่งชาติเขาแหลมหญ้า-หมู่เกาะเสม็ด/Khao Laem Ya - Mu Ko Samet National Park

Khao Laem Ya - Mu Ko Samet National Park

General Information
Sparkling white sand and cliffs from an azure sea… the archipelago of Same Island is the setting that inspired classical Thai poet, Sunthorn Phu, to write his most famous epic: Phra Aphai Manee, a story of princes, sages, mermaids and giants That was 150 years ago, and today you can still enjoy the magical qualities of Samet and surrounding areas. In 1981, the Royal Forest department declared the archipelago of Samet, the headland of Khao Laem Ya and 11 kilometer of Mae Ramphueng Beach to be a national park. Samet island group comprises of several islands i.e. Ko Kudi, Ko Kruai, Ko Ma Kham, Ko Ma Kham, Ko Plai Tin, Ko Thaiu and Ko Chan [Ko means island]. One has its’own uniqueness which visitors should not miss.

Located 200 kilometers southeast of Bangkok in Rayong province, Khao Laem Ya – Mu Ko Samet National Park covers 131 square kilometers of land and sea, and is an easy destination for Bangkokians and world travelers alike. Most come to relax and enjoy the beaches, but opportunities exist for more adventurous: hiking trails and exploring reefs.

Khao Laem Ya-Mu Ko Samet is a coastal area and island national park. It is located at seaside of Eastern Thai Gulf. Topography of the area is made of granite mountain around Plet and Laem Ya mountain. Samet island is made of mountains and hills such as Kra Jom mountain. The area in the east of the island is highly sloped while in the east is less sloped. Beaches lie continuously from bay to bay all around the island. The area in the middle of the island is hilly. People settle in the plain near the coast and most villagers live in the north and the east of the island. There are another three small islands at the southern tip of the island, Ko Chan (moon island), Ko San Chalam (shark fin island) and Hin Khao (White rock). Other 8 islands near the shore in the park boundary are Ko Plai Tin (foot tip island), Ko Klet Chalam (Shark scale island), Ko Makham (Tamarind island), Ko Kruai (Cone island), Ko Kudi (Monk’s Chamber island), Ko Thai Khang Kkao (Bat bottom island), Ko Talu (Hole island) and Ko Yung Kluea (Salt silo island).

Climate

Normally, Cool and dry weather starts from mid October to February. Average temperature all year is 28oC. Minimum temperature in average is 20.oC in December. Maximum temperature in average is 33 oC in April. Average rainfall all year is 1,339 mm. Minimum average rainfall in December is 4 mm and maximum rainfall in September is 255 mm. Average relative humidity all year is 77%. During December to January average wind velocity is 5 knot and maximum wind velocity is 50 knot.

Flora and Fauna

Plant distribution in Khao Laem Ya-Mu Ko Samet National Park varies depending on topography which can be classified as follow.

Dry Evergreen Forest which is majority of vegetation type can be found almost everywhere both on island and the mainland. Flora found here include Cansjera rheedei, Cleistanthus helferi, Memecylon cyaneum and Wrightia arborea etc.

Beach Forest is home to some wild flora thrived on beach. Plant and tree species generally found here are dwarf, branched and has short twig and thick leave such as Thespesia populneoides, Streblus asper, Xylocarpus rumphii and Terminalia catappa etc.

Wildlife From the survey wildlife can be classified as;

Mammals : Mammal found here such as Treeshrew, Flying Fox, Crab-eating Macaque etc.

Birds : At least 118 bird species are recorded from the survey in the national park. Some species found here are Black-winged Stilt, Plover, Sandpiper etc.

Reptiles : The survey has confirmed at least 15 species such as Spiny-tailed House Gecko, Flat-tailed Gecko, Tockay, Butterfly Lizard etc.

Amphibians : There are only 4 species of amphibians confirmed in the park such as Toad, House Tree Frog, Painted Bullfrog etc.

Coral reefs are the underwater equivalent to tropical rainforests in terms of species diversity, complexity and fragility. They support an intricate interdependent web of coastal ecology. In addition to their intrinsic value, coral reefs and sea grass beds provide invaluable habitat for a multitude of organisms including some economically important species. Exploring this exquisite undersea world is easy to do without having adverse effects on the local environment Wildlife includes monitor lizards, long tailed macaques and variable squirrels. Ko Thalu harbors a colony of large fruit eating bats, sometimes refered to as “flying foxes.” A variety of birds including several species of nesting terns, herons and hornbills reside seasonally or year round in the park. Though sea turtles rarely nest on the beaches, they have in the past and still are known to frequent park waters.

Khao Laem Ya - Mu Ko Samet National Park
The main attraction has traditionally been a series of sculpted coves on the east shore of Samet Island which offers a variety of privately run accommodation on splendidly scenic beaches. Numerous restaurants serve Thai, Chinese and Continental cuisine. There are may beaches and bays on this island eg. Sai Kaeo Beach, Phai Bay, Thapthim bay, Cho Bay, Wong Duean Bay, Thian Bay, Wai Bay, Kio Nok Bay, and Pakarang Bay. On the west coast, there are only two bays namly Phrao Bay and Kio Noi Bay.

Samet Island is the largest island in this group which has about 6 km long north to south and covering approximately 9 sq.km. lts name came from Samet tree (Melaleuca quinquenervia) that found on a swamp near Sai Kaeo Beach. For a more rustic approach, there is a National Park campground on kudi Island. In addition to tents, visitors need to provided food supplies and arrange transportation to and from the island. There is a loop nature trail for walking around this island which shorter than 1 km. It take about half an hour to walk on this trail so that visitors can admire the nature and exercise for their fitness as well. Thalu Island is a popular destination for a day trip is not available able for overnight guests.

Mae Rum Peung Beach
Mae Rum Peung Beach is white sandy beach on the mainland. Mae Rum Peung beach is the longest beach on the eastern side of Rayong. The beach is slightly inclined and is situated in Khao Laem Ya-Koh Samet national park. 12 km of sandy beach has made it an ideal place for holiday making. The beach is about 6 kms from Ban Pe, around 9 kms from the hi-way no. 2 and about 500 metres from the park headquarter.

Laem Ya Monutain and Pret Mountain
Laem Ya Monutain and Pret Mountain are a small laterite hill covering the area of 1.09 sq.km. Forests cover the southern cape that project into the sea. Spectacular scenery of curvy and sandy beaches can be viewed afar from the mountain top by looking into the west. Samet Island and another two small islands lie in the west right in front from the lookout. Looking to the east, small bay with spacious sandy beach and some rocks in crystal clear water can be seen.

Samet Island
Samet Island is a largest island of the national park. It covers the area of 6.72 sq.km and is located about 6 kilometers from Ban Phe. Samet Island is famous for its fine and whitish beach. Sun Thon Phu, a legendary Thai Poet, refer to this beach as amazing crystal beach comparing the beach that as fine as crystal. Samet Island has taken its name from the local tree species commonly found on the island called Samet both white and red species. There are many natural attractions on the island due to abundance of beautiful beaches and bays.

Klang Bay
Klang Bay is in the north of the Samet Island and can be viewed from mainland at Ban Phe. The bay has 1 km of long white and sandy beach. It is an area for tourist boat parking. The famous Sai Kaeo Beach is located in north-eastern of the island about 300 metres from Samet village. It's a gorgeous beach in the park.

Wong Duean Bay is located in central area on the eastern side of the island. The shape of bay looks like crescent. It is a 500 meters long white and sandy beach, located 1.5 km from Sai Kaeo Beach. It takes no more than 20 minutes of walking time that would pass Phai Bay and Cho Bay to this peaceful Wong Duean Bay.

Wai Bay, Kio Bay, Toei Bay, Thian Bay, Phai Bay and Phrao Bay
They are suitable sites for observing coral reef because the coral lies near the shore and every bay has beautiful beach especially Kio Bay.

Kudi Island
Kudi Island is one of the island in Sun Thon Phu’s literature (Sun Thon Phu is a Thai legendary Poet). It is situated on the east of Samet Island about 6 kilometers from the mainland, 8.5 kilometers from the park headquarters. The island covers the area of 0.16 square kilometers Two surrounding islands are Thai Khang Khao Island and Tham Ruesi Island. Kudi Island is a location for Ranger Station 3 (Ko Kudi). The island is full of serenity with beautiful beaches. Nin Mangkon Cliff on the steep rock in the south is a good place to look over wide ranging scenery. Coral reef is found around the island made it suitable site for snorkeling and camping.

Kruai Island, Makham Island and Plaitin Island

Kruai Island, Makham Island and Plaitin Island are island group located about 600 metres in the north of Kudi island. Kruai Island, Makham Island are connected by beach and cays in low tide. Plaitin Island is about 400 metres from Kruai Island, Makham Island. Sand Dunes and beautiful coral reef are found surrounding Makham Island and Plaitin Island.

Chan Island
Chan Island is a smallest island in the national park and located in the most southern part. It offers a good lookout and popular sites for scuba diving.

Talu Island
Talu Island is situated about 6km from Kudi Island. The outstanding feature is the unique form of the island that given its name. In the north, rocky cliff project out in the sea look like natural bridge. The sea current runs through the hole underneath the bridge. White and sandy beaches are found in the east and the south in which two areas are excellent for camping. Large coral reef is found in underwater world surrounding Ko Talu especially in front of the beach. This made it a great site for snorkeling and scuba diving. The island is also home to Terns and Flying-Fox that found living in large number.

Hin Khao Island
Hin Khao Island is a small island. There is submerged rock in the north-eastern of Samet island. Rocks found on the island are all creamy white. This rock is a nesting site for Terns. Visitors can snorkel and scuba dive at the site.

Khao Laem Ya - Mu Ko Samet National Park
Contact Address
Khao Laem Ya - Mu Ko Samet National Park
79, Mu 1, Ban Kon Ao, Hat Mae Ramphueng-Phe rd, Phe Sub-district, Amphur Muang Rayong Rayong Thailand 21160
Tel. 0 3865 2136 Fax 0 3865 3034 E-mail reserve@dnp.go.th

How to go?
By Car
From Bangkok to Rayong take the hi-way no.3, Sukhumvit road, taking about 220 kms. Alternatively, take hi-way no.36 which come from hi-way no.3 at km.136. This will shorten the distance about 35 kms. Once you are in Rayong city continue for another 12 kms, turn right at km 231. Follow the road for 2 kms to get to Ban Phe. The boat jetty to Ko Samet is located here.

On Samet island, there is only one road which used to be just a walkway. This road is 6 km long and started from the north of Thap Thim Bay passing Anodat pool to Sai Kaeo beach. The distance from Ban Samet to Sai Kaeo beach is about 800 metres.

By Ship
Getting to Samet island by boat starts at Ban Phe Jetty. There are three public jetties for boats that carry from 10 up to100 people. It takes about 30 minute to travel to the island. Boat service is available from 6.00 am to 5.00 pm. The boat fee costs 50 bath/trip/person. You can also hire the private boat and negotiate for the price. Three Jetties on the island are Island Head jetty, Wong Duean Bay jetty (eastern side) and Phrao Bay jetty (western side). Some operators located in smaller bay also do have speed boat service to transport tourists from Ban Phe to their own resorts

By Bus
From Bangkok to Ban Phe, there is public bus service, both window and air-condition type, available every hour from 5.00 am to 8.30 pm, starting from Eastern Bus Terminal (Aekamai) at Sukhumvit road.

Koh Larn เกาะล้าน

situated to the West of Pattaya Strait, about 7.7 Kilometers from the shore, covering an area of about 4 square
kilometers. There are beautiful beaches, clear water, and an abundance of coral. Visitors can view the coral
either from a glass-bottom boat or by diving down directly. A well-known beach is at Ta Waen Beach in the
northern part of the Island, a 750 meters stretch of white sand with many stalls andshops. Sightseeing boats
mostly dock in this area. There are also Laemtien Beach and Samae Beach on the south-western side, each
beach spanning a length of 700 and 100 meters respectively. Both are regarded as beautiful and interesting
sports, especially Laemtien Beach which has remainedexceptionally clean and tranquil. There are now a few
stores servisitors. Ta Pan Beach on the western part of the island is 500 meters in length with make-shift lodging
available. On Saturdays, Sundays and holidays, sightseeing boats usually dock along this beach all the way to
Laemtie where there is coral. On the southern part is Nual Beach 450 meters in length. On this beach a hotel
which accommodates a large number of tourists. This is another good place for viewing coral.

เกาะล้าน/ Koh Larn

เกาะล้าน ตั้งอยู่ในแนวขนานกับหาดพัทยา อยู่ห่างจากอ่าวระยะทาง 7.5 กิโลเมตร ตัวเกาะกว้าง 2 กิโลเมตร ยาว 5 กิโลเมตร เกาะล้านมีหาดทรายขาวนวลเม็ดทรายละเอียด มีแนวปะการังมากมาย นักท่องเที่ยวสามารถนั่งเรือหางยาวท้องกระจกหรือดำน้ำดูปะการังได้ ซึ่งมีหาดทรายที่เลื่องชื่อ ได้แก่ หาดตาแหวน อยู่ทางเหนือของเกาะ มีหาดทรายยาวประมาณ 750 เมตร เป็นหาดที่มีร้านค้าต่างๆ มากมาย เรือท่องเที่ยวมักมาจอดบริเวณนี้เป็นส่วนใหญ่ เนื่องจากมีหาดทรายขาวและสวยงาม หาดแหลมเทียน และหาดแสม อยู่ทางทิศตะวันตกเฉียงใต้ของเกาะล้าน หาดทรายยาวประมาณ 700 เมตร และ 100 เมตร ตามลำดับจัดเป็นหาดที่สวยงามและน่าประทับใจอีกแห่งหนึ่งของเกาะ โดยเฉพาะบริเวณแหลมเทียน มีความเงียบสงบและสะอาด ปัจจุบันมีร้านค้าไว้บริการนักท่องเที่ยวอยู่บ้าง หาดตาพัน อยู่ทางทิศตะวันตกของเกาะ หาดยาวประมาณ 500 เมตร บนหาดมีเพิงพักชั่วคราว สำหรับนักท่องเที่ยวเฉพาะวันเสาร์ อาทิตย์ หรือวันหยุด เรือท่องเที่ยวมัก มาจอดบริเวณหน้าหาดตลอดไปจนถึงแหลมเทียนและหมู่เกาะใกล้เคียง ซึ่งจะมีปะการังอยู่โดยตลอด หาดนวล อยู่ทางทิศใต้ของเกาะ ชายหาดยาวประมาณ 450 เมตร เป็นหาดที่มีโรงแรมตั้งอยู่ มีนักท่องเที่ยวมาพักมากพอสมควรบริเวณนี้เป็นแหล่งดูปะการังอีกแห่งหนึ่ง นักท่องเที่ยวนิยมดูปะการัง จัดเป็นหาดที่น่าสนใจอีกหาดหนึ่ง นอกจากนี้แล้วยังมี หาดแหลมหัวโขนด้านหน้า-หลัง แหลมทองหลาง แหลมถ้ำแร่ ฯลฯ ที่เป็นจุดท่องเที่ยวที่น่าสนใจ สำหรับกิจกรรมที่นักท่องเที่ยวนิยมไปเล่นกันที่เกาะล้าน ได้แก่ เล่นน้ำ ดูปะการัง เล่นเรือลากร่มชูชีพ เรือสกี เรือสกู๊ดเตอร์ เป็นต้น

ชลบุรี/Information of CHONBURI

General Information
Chon Buri – The Nearest Seaside Retreat
Chonburi, Bangkok’s nearest seaside town, is located on the eastern coast of the Gulf of Thailand, only 80 kilometers from Bangkok. The area boasts abundant natural resources, which are highlighted by delightful beaches, local colors, traditions, delicacies and fresh seafood. This is a popular resort among Bangkokians who seek the nearest escape from hectic weekly schedules as Chon Buri has something for everyone. In addition, Chon Buri is the center of the Eastern Seaboard Development Project, with its industrial parks and fishing villages.

Pattaya
Pattaya – A Traveler’s Paradise
Pattaya is nestled along a picturesque bay on the East Coast of the Gulf of Thailand, roughly 170 kilometers southeast of Bangkok. From a fishing village in the 1960's, Pattaya has emerged as the favorite Southeast Asian vacation center. A fascinating escape where tourists, holiday makers and vacationers from around the world unfold an incomparable array of possibilities to unwind during an exotic holiday beach vacation.

Unlike other beach resorts, where natural surroundings are used as magnets to attract tourists, Pattaya makes an all-out attempt to provide the best of everything. Here, “everything” means everything a tourist can imagine while on holiday: recreation, entertainment, sports, sightseeing and fun. To put it simply, Pattaya is a paradise for everyone, as it has a variety of attractions suitable for all types of visitors. This is the place where you can fill your day, from dusk to dawn, with endless activities, or you may choose to do nothing at all and relax.

The Past
Pattaya's name was originated from the march of Phraya Tak (later known as King Taksin the Great) and his followers from Ayutthaya to Chanthaburi just before the fall of the Ayutthaya Kingdom to the Burmese invaders in 1767.

When Phraya Tak's army arrived in the vicinity of what is Pattaya today, he encountered the troops of Nai Klom who tried to intercept him. When the two leaders met face to face, Nai Klom was awed by Phraya Tak's dignified manner and his army's strict discipline, thereby surrendering without a fight. The place where the two armies confronted each other was later called Thap Phraya, which means the Army of the Phraya. This was later changed to Phatthaya, which happens to mean the wind blowing from the southwest to the northeast at the beginning of the rainy season. Today the spelling of the name has been simplified to Pattaya.

For centuries, Pattaya was a small fishing village almost cut off from the outside world. But a big change occurred on 29 April 1961 when the first group of about 100 American servicemen who would join the Vietnam War arrived in Pattaya for relaxation. Soon, sleepy Pattaya became Thailand's premier and most successful beach resort, which annually attracts hundreds of thousands of pleasure-seeking visitors. A full range of accommodations from super deluxe hotels to bungalows and mini-pocket guesthouses replaced fishermen’s huts along the beach. Fishing vessels were adapted to become tourist boats and swimmers and sunbathers from various parts of the world frequented the quiet powdery golden beaches. Places of nighttime entertainment have also sprung up and are popular among international tourists.

The Present
Pattaya currently integrates the delights of a 1st class beach resort, city-like dining, shopping and night entertainment facilities with more than 300 assorted hotels, thousands of shops, restaurants and bars. In addition, there are an array of sports and recreational activities including beaches, golf courses, tennis courts, go-kart, gyms for working out, weight lifting and Thai-boxing gear. Pattaya offers a broad range of things to do. During the day, one may enjoy riding elephants or driving humble automatic mini-bikes, monstrous motorcycles, or even monster multicolored convertible Jeeps. Others go for shooting firearms, scuba diving and surfing, deep-sea fishing, speed boats, scooters, water-skiing, parasailing, or aerial sports such as gliding ultra-lights and flying motor-propelled gliders. On the other hand, at night, there are restaurants, bars, theaters, cabaret shows, night clubs, bowling halls, billiard & snooker clubs, exotic erotic shows, discos, sauna & massage parlors, not to cite its absolutely incredible shopping which is available non-stop both day-and-night.

Pattaya Facts
This exotic beach resort welcomes approximately 5 million visitors a year. The friendly and hospitable Thai nature boosts its promotion, frequently bringing back the repeat visitors and constantly increasing the number of newcomers.

Pattaya city is located on the eastern coast of the country at latitude 13? N and longitude 101? E in the area of Chon Buri province. It is 147 kilometers from Bangkok and lies parallel to Sukhumvit Road on its east and the coastline on its west. Pattaya occupies an area of 208.1 sq. km. that is divided into 53.44 sq. kilometers of land and 154.66 sq. kilometers of islands and sea. Its coastline is 15 kilometers long.

Pattaya has a plain on the coast with some high mountains to the south. The area on the east slopes down towards the sea on the west.

Administration
Pattaya City has been administered under a special autonomous system since 1978. It has a status comparable to that of a municipality and is administered separately by the mayor of Pattaya City, who is responsible for making policies, organizing public services, and supervising all employees of Pattaya City Administration.

How to get there
Travelling to Chon Buri
By Car
Chon Buri is a one-hour drive from Bangkok along Highway No. 34 (Bang Na-Trat). Alternatively, taking the Motor Way (new Bangkok-Chon Buri Route) will reduce travel time.

By Bus
The 1.5-hour journey from Bangkok can be made on regular buses originating from the Eastern Bus Terminal (Ekkamai). Air-conditioned buses leave Ekkamai every 40 minutes from 5.30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tel: 0 2391 9829. Non air-conditioned buses leave Ekkamai every 30 minutes from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tel: 0 2391 2504.

There are also air-conditioned buses leaving the Bangkok's Northern Bus Terminal (Mochit 2 Bus Terminal) on Kamphaeng Phet 2 Road from 6.30 a.m. to 6.30 p.m. Call: 0 2936 2852-66 for more information. In addition, Si Racha Tour, Tel: 0 2936 4029 operates air-conditioned bus services to Chon Buri and Bang Saen.

Travelling to Pattaya
By car
Pattaya can be reached in a 2.5-hour drive along Bangna-Trat Highway via Bang Pakong, Chon Buri and Si Racha. However, visitors can avoid Chon Buri by opting for Highway 36, the new Chon Buri - Pattaya - Rayong route or taking the motorway from Rama 9 Road.

By bus
Air-conditioned and regular buses depart from the Eastern Bus Terminal (Ekkamai) and Bangkok’s Northern Bus Terminal (Mochit 2 Bus Terminal) on Kamphaengphet Road daily. Buses (air-con) depart the Eastern Bus Terminal every 30 minutes from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. and from Mochit II (Northern Bus Terminal) from 5.00 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Departure times and fares may be obtained from the Eastern Bus Terminal, tel. 0 2391 2504, 0 2391 8097 or the Northern Bus Terminal, tel. 0 2936 2852-66.

There are also minibuses that travel directly from Bangkok Airport to Pattaya at 9.00 a.m., 12.00 p.m. and 7.00 p.m. daily. For more information, contact the Bangkok International Airport, tel. 0 2535 1111.

In addition, most hotels in Bangkok provide bus services to Pattaya. Contact the tour desk at your hotel for details.

By train
The State Railway of Thailand offers a daily train service departing Bangkok's Hua Lamphong Station at 06.55 a.m., tel. 0 2621 8701. It takes about 5 hours to reach a station located near the Siam Country Club.

By Air
Bangkok Airways provides daily flights connecting Ko Samui and U-Taphao Airport. (Approximately 30 kilometers south of Pattaya).

Travelling in Pattaya
Pattaya City is divided into four major zones: North Pattaya, Central Pattaya, South Pattaya and Chomthian. It should be noted that there is a small mountain known as the Hill, located between South Pattaya and Chomthian. For a visual illustration take a look at the Map of Pattaya and Chomthian with the Hill.

Motorbikes are the most popular mode of transport in Pattaya. However, transportation in the city is facilitated through the use of special cars (song taew), customized pickup trucks with passenger seats in a covered overhead back cabin. These pickups, known as Bahts-Bus, can easily carry 8-10 passengers in the back, plus 1 or 2 passengers in front. They circle around the city and are allowed to stop anywhere. In addition to motorbike-taxis, the Bahts-Buses are the only form of public transport permitted in Pattaya. If not occupied, they also can be hired as private taxis. In fact, they are private vehicles in most cases belonging to the drivers. There are so many of them that they end up looking for passengers.

This compact city consists of 3 major roads that parallel each other. Right along the beach is Beach Rd., which is a one-way road from the north to south that is a few kilometers long. Second Rd. is a hundred or so meters away and carries city transport mainly from the south to north, although it is partly a two-way road. The last road is Sukhumvit Rd, a continuation of the highway leading to Bangkok. Many small streets called Soi(s) cross the roads. And it's advisable to walk some of the small streets, which are enumerated from north to south, although some have names. Second Rd. continues on to South Pattaya and turns to Chomthian reaching Chomthian beach within 5 minutes, and continues alongside Chomthian beach, which is approximately 20 kilometers long with some secluded escapes.

Chomthian Beach Rd., which is a two-way road, also parallels Sukhumvit Rd and is the only road in the Chomthian area, except for some connecting streets. On the other side of Sukhumvit road are several country clubs, golf courses and typical Thai rural villages, providing charming escapes on the banks of sweet-water lakes and small streams in the leisurely and relaxing countryside.

Many kinds of motorbikes, convertible monster Jeeps, sport and passenger cars are offered for rent. A driver's license is not required for driving around Pattaya and vicinity, so many tourists are tempted get behind the wheel. It should be noted that in Thailand drivers drive on the left lane, as in England and Japan.

Festivals
Chon Buri Buffalo Race
Chon Buri Buffalo Race is a long-established celebration of this most useful animal of Thai farmers. A fun-filled event, it is held not only in Chon Buri itself but also in Ban Bung and Nong Yai districts. The beasts of burden are dressed outragerously or with admirable creativity by owners depending on their imagination. Assembled in the courtyard in front of the townhall, the buffaloes partake in racing, or take part in physical fitness and “fashion” contests.

Chon Buri Red Cross Fair
Chon Buri Red Cross Fair is held about mid-April. There is a Phra Phutthasihing Procession. Also organized are cultural shows, exhibitons and stalls offering various types of products.

งขลา/Information of SONGKHLA

Samila Beach
Lying approximately 2.5 kilometers from the municipal market, the beach is characterized by fine
white sand and lined with shady pine trees. From Samila Beach one can see Laem Son Onn to the
northeast and Chalathas Beach to the south. On a clear day, Kao Seng Hill can be seen further to the south.
The major landmark of the beach is the Golden Mermaid statue, a prominent symbol of Songkhla.






Cat and Rat Island
These prominent marine landmarks facing Samila Beach and Laem Son Onn with rodent - like
and feline shapes have been the symbol of Songkhla since ancient times. These islets' coastal waters
are favored by local anglers.