Tourism

Top 10 Tourist Attractions in Chiang Rai: Excluding Temples

Chiang Rai – This beautiful city in Thailand has a history that goes further back than its more than three-decade duration as the capital of the Lanna Kingdom. It is considered one of the oldest settlements in Thailand.

Although it might not be as popular as Chang Mai in terms of tourism, what makes it a perfect destination is the strong affiliation with the Tai culture – the origin of the Lanna People – which can be seen virtually everywhere around the city.

Despite the strong cultural affiliation, the city is evolving through new art to modernize the Lanna culture in a bid to offer a new perspective for visitors looking to understand what it means to belong to the Lanna Culture.

However, before you leave on your vacation, you have to make sure that you have everything in place. From your tickets to your hotels being booked. But most especially, you need to make sure you bought your travel insurance to protect you from unexpected expenses that might result from health issues, loss or theft of properties, and cancellations among other things. You can purchase travel insurance online with AA Insurance, and broaden it as you wish on the off chance that you choose to continue voyaging.

No matter what end of the culture you want to sample –be it old or modern –there is always a place in the city to satisfy your urge. And to make this easier, we have compiled a list of places to add to your itinerary.

Chiang Rai Golden Clock Tower

If you have been anywhere near the White Temple, then you would have most likely seen the clock tower with its twisting and swirling spires. Located at the junction of Phaholyothin and Banpaprakan Roads. Built-in 2008 as an honour to His Majesty, King Bhumibhol Adulydej, this clock tower comes alive every 7pm, 8pm, and 9pm with a vibrant display of light and sound. This is quite popular amongst tourists.

Hill-Tribes Museum and Education Centre

If you plan to know more about the culture of the Hill-tribe and visit their communities, then it is important to visit this museum. Its goal is to build awareness for responsible tourism by teaching tourists about the hill-tribe communities and etiquettes to be observed while visiting the villages.

The museum opens from 9am to 6pm on weekdays and 10am to 6pm on weekends and public holidays.

King Mengrai the Great Monument

This life-size monument is a dedication to the foundation of the Lanna Kingdom, King Mengrai the Great who reigned from 1262 to 1311.

It is the very first thing you see when approaching the city from Paholyothin Road and it is backed by three big Tungs which are the Lanna flags. Locals typically stop here on their way to the city to pay their respects to the founding father. It is also a great place to get some rest and buy some souvenirs on your way to the city.

Mae Fah Luang Art and Cultural Park

If you will like a one-stop-shop for all things relating to the Chiang Rai past and immediate history and cultural heritage, then this is the place for you. Located in a lovely lake garden, it is a very beautiful environment to learn about the kingdom’s 400-year history.

It opens from 8.30am to 5.30pm every Tuesday to Sunday and is located about 5km to the west of the city.

Oub Kham Museum

If you will love to dig deeper into the Lanna history, then I will recommend the Oub Kham Museum. It showcases all the different aspects that come together to create the Lanna Kingdom; from the costumes to the myriad rare antiques.

The different collections are housed inside 5 exhibition rooms and a man-made cave. One of the major pieces there is the golden throne of Chiang Tung created from nine pieces of ornately carved teak and gilded with gold.

The museum opens from 8am to 5pm daily and is located on Na Khai Road, about 3km southwest of the city centre.

The Naval City Pillar

A perfect display of Lanna and ancient Khmer concepts of the universe, the Naval City Pillar is a series of carved stoned pillars set on top of the Jom Thong Hill. The site as a strong supernatural feel to it and while you are there, you can easily visit downtown Chiang Rai, the Kok River, and some other places located within the vicinity.

Phu Chi Fah

This beautiful cliff gives an extraordinary view of the island and its beaches and mountains. The road that leads to the cliff alone is filled with flora and mangroves that will take your breath away.

Located in Phi Pan Nam Range on the eastern edge of the Thoeng District, it is open for visiting all day and you can go with the family.

Golden Triangle

This is one place you must visit before you end your vacation. It is a pretty famous place because it borders three countries; Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar and they all meet on the Mekong River.

It also has a history of being the centre of Poppy cultivation at a point in Thailand. Visit this place and take a peek into the remains of an ancient culture through the ruins and remnant of the glorious history of those that lived there in the past.

Doi Mae Salong

At an altitude of 1800 metres, it is not just one of the best places to visit, it is also one of the highest peaks. This place holds a historical significance as being the settlement of a former Chinese division. However, today, it has been transformed into a tourist hotspot with a unique ambiance, delicious indigenous Chinese food, and lots more.

Located at Daen Lao Range, it is open from 8am to 5pm.

Mae Kok River

This beautiful river runs from Thathon in the north into the city itself and it is miles long. You can take a boat and cruise along the river with the family, soaking in the beautiful scenery along its length.

These above are but just a few of the beautiful locations that can be visited during a visit to Chiang Rai. However, like most places, it is advisable to be careful during your stay there so as not to end up stranded or in a tight situation. Once more, I will implore you to get your holiday insurance before you commence your vacation to be protected.

Tourism

Interior Ministry Introduces New 180 Day Destination Thailand Visa

People from more nations will be now able to enter Thailand without a visa beginning Monday. This is part of an effort to increase tourism and encourage visitors to stay longer, Interior Ministry spokeswoman Traisuree Taisaranakul said on Friday.

According to Ms. Traisuree, Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has signed four documents that will make it easier for foreigners to travel. These modifications will all take effect on Monday, provided they are published in the Royal Gazette.

The instructions include 93 more nations on the list of individuals who can visit Thailand without a visa, up from 57 previously. People from these countries can stay for a maximum of 60 days. Additionally, from 19 to 31, nearly twice as many nations will be able to obtain visas on arrival in Thailand.

To attract digital nomads, artists, and tourists interested in learning or practicing skills such as cooking and Muay Thai, the country will also introduce the Destination Thailand Visa service.

The new form of visa, which is valid for five years, allows travelers to stay for up to 180 days.

According to Ms. Traisuree, students holding visas for master’s degrees or higher will not be required to leave Thailand immediately upon graduation. They will be able to stay for an additional year to hunt for work or vacation.

In order to enhance the economy and tourism, the cabinet took a general decision on these additional measures in May. The statement was meant to be released in June, but it was pushed back.

Ms. Traisuree believes that this is the greatest sort of visa for persons who want to work from home in the Land of Smiles and explore the nation without the various restrictions and complications that come with conventional tourist visas.

Getting a DTV will give you a 5-year multiple-entry visa that lets you stay in Thailand for a total of 180 days a year, with the opportunity to stay for another 180 days.

Ms. Traisuree said that the Destination Thailand Visa is great if you want to work from home in the Land of Smiles and see the sights without the many restrictions and problems that come with a regular tourist visa. The Destination Thailand Visa will cost 10,000 THB.

Qualifications for the Thailand Destination Visa (DTV)

According to Thai Embassy, to be eligible for the visa, you must fulfill the following conditions (which could change):

You have to be 20 years of age or older
You have to be able to afford the cost of the visa
To sustain your stay in the nation, you must demonstrate that you have at least 500,000 THB in your bank account
Proof of your employment with a recognized company is required.

For digital nomads or remote workers who want to make the most of their travels and yet have the opportunity to work while they’re there, the Destination Thailand Visa is designed just for you. Additionally, it is ideal if you are traveling to Thailand in order to partake in any of the following activities:

Thai food prepared with Muay Thai
Instruction and conferences
Sports medicine therapy
International talent International music and art events

Thailand DTV Visa Benefits

Additionally, there is uncertainty about these details and they could change:

In comparison to other Southeast Asian nations that provide comparable visas, Thailand has less stringent income requirements and charges for the visa. For another 10,000 THB, you can extend the visa once, for a maximum of 180 days.
There are ninety-three foreign nations that qualify for the Thailand DTV Visa.
With this visa, you can lawfully operate remotely for foreign clients and companies while in Thailand.
Your spouse and any children under the age of twenty may accompany you.
You are exempt from paying taxes on your foreign income because the visa allows you to stay in Thailand for up to 180 days.

Drawbacks of a Thailand DTV Visa

You are unable to work for a Thai company that needs a Thai work visa, even though you are still able to engage in some activities and make money. Your DTV will end if you decide to change the kind of visa you are currently on.

Additional information on the visa’s release date and application process will be available in late June or early July of 2024. You will most likely be able to apply for it via the Thai immigration office, a Thai embassy, or a Royal Thai Consulate.

Tourism

Hotels in Thailand Fret as German Itravel Group Files for Bankruptcy

Thailand’s Hotels Association (THA) reports that another German tour operator has gone bankrupt, but that this will have a far less effect than the recent bankruptcy of FTI Touristik.

Following notification from the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), the Thai Hotels Association has now confirmed that the Cologne-based luxury tour operator Itravel Group has formally filed for bankruptcy.

Southern Thailand is home to numerous high-end resorts, which Itravel aims to attract, according to Thai Hotels Association president Thienprasit Chaiyapatranun.

As a result of Itravel’s bankruptcy, he said, the hotels association is currently collecting data from its members.

On Monday, the organization wrote to the TAT and the Foreign Ministry, requesting that they assist hotel operators in keeping up with legal developments surrounding the bankruptcy of the German tour operator FTI, which resulted in a loss of almost 111 million baht for hotels around the country.

Hotels having issues with Itravel

On Monday, during the THA monthly meeting, Mr. Thienprasit noted that they also emphasized the case’s urgency to Minister Sermsak Pongpanit of Tourism and Sports.

In response to allegations that hotel operators with business partnerships with Itravel were experiencing issues with financial transactions, the agency issued an alert to the industry, according to Siripakorn Cheawsamoot, TAT deputy governor for Europe, Africa, the Middle East and the Americas.

He speculated that the losses might be lower with Itravel, an online travel agency that focuses on the niche luxury market, than with FTI, the third operator.

According to the Bangkok Post, at Monday’s THA meeting, Mr. Sermsak stated that the ministry will look into measures to assist hotels, especially since the goal of 3.5 trillion baht in tourism earnings for this year is still very ambitious.

According to Mr. Thienprasit, the organization is opposed to the government’s plans to increase the legal foreign ownership of condominiums from 49% to 75%. This, he added, might lead to an increase in unlawful accommodations and make other condo residents feel uneasy about having more guests around the clock.

Unscrupulous investors

He said that some international investors are already breaking the law by renting out their rooms to day guests, even though the Hotel Act only permits rentals of at least 30 days.

An increase in the foreign ownership quota for condos, according to Mr. Thienprasit, could entice unscrupulous investors and lead to the construction of even more unlawful rooms, which now exceed the number of registered hotel rooms by a factor of two.

The success of Thailand’s hotel industry is highly dependent on the business of tour operators. These collaborations bring in a constant flow of visitors, particularly during busy seasons.

It is more convenient for passengers to book comprehensive packages offered by tour operators, which include hotel accommodations and activities. Because of this arrangement, hotels may anticipate a specific amount of bookings without having to spend a lot on advertising.

Additionally, hotels are able to provide more affordable rates, which appeals to guests who are mindful of their budget. But if tour operators go through slumps or start focusing on other places, this dependence might be disastrous.

Source: Bangkok Post, Thai PBS

Tourism

Embracing Paradise: Your Guide to an Unforgettable Vacation in Los Cabos

Nestled at the southern tip of the Baja California Peninsula, Los Cabos emerges as a paradise where the desert meets the sea, offering a unique blend of natural wonders, luxurious accommodations, and vibrant culture. Whether you seek serene relaxation, thrilling adventures, or cultural explorations, Los Cabos promises an idyllic escape that exceeds expectations.

Discovering Pristine Beaches

Los Cabos is renowned for its stunning beaches, each with its own charm and allure. Sink your toes into the soft sands of Medano Beach, a bustling stretch perfect for sunbathing and people-watching. For a more secluded experience, explore the rugged beauty of Santa Maria Beach, ideal for snorkeling amidst vibrant marine life in crystal-clear waters. Enhance your beach experience with guided tours and snorkeling excursions offered by https://boattripsloscabos.com/, where you can explore the coastline and underwater wonders with expert guides.

Embarking on Aquatic Adventures

Venture into the azure waters of the Sea of Cortez and Pacific Ocean for thrilling water activities. Dive into snorkeling or scuba diving expeditions to discover underwater treasures like colorful coral reefs and curious sea creatures. Set sail on a whale-watching tour during the winter months to witness majestic humpback whales breaching against the backdrop of the Pacific horizon.

Exploring the Baja Desert

Beyond its pristine coastline, Los Cabos boasts dramatic desert landscapes waiting to be explored. Take an ATV or jeep tour through the rugged terrain of the Baja desert, where towering cacti and unique rock formations paint a striking contrast against the deep blue sky. Visit the Sierra de la Laguna Biosphere Reserve for hiking trails that lead to hidden oases and panoramic vistas of the surrounding desert.

Indulging in Culinary Delights

Los Cabos is a culinary paradise, offering a fusion of traditional Mexican flavors with international influences. Sample fresh seafood tacos at local taquerías or dine on gourmet cuisine crafted by world-renowned chefs at upscale restaurants overlooking the ocean. Savor authentic Baja cuisine with dishes like fish tacos, ceviche, and grilled octopus paired perfectly with locally produced wines and craft cocktails.

Experiencing Vibrant Nightlife

As the sun sets, Los Cabos transforms into a lively nightlife destination. Explore the vibrant nightlife scene in Cabo San Lucas with its array of beachfront bars, live music venues, and pulsating nightclubs. Dance the night away under the stars or enjoy a sunset cocktail overlooking the marina, where the atmosphere buzzes with energy and excitement.

Relaxing in Luxury Resorts

Los Cabos boasts a plethora of luxurious resorts and boutique hotels that cater to every traveler’s desire for relaxation and indulgence. Unwind in infinity pools with panoramic ocean views, rejuvenate with holistic spa treatments inspired by ancient Mexican traditions, or tee off on world-class golf courses designed by golf legends amidst stunning coastal landscapes.

Immersing in Local Culture

Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Los Cabos with visits to historic landmarks like the Mission San Jose del Cabo Church or art galleries showcasing local and international artists. Browse through vibrant markets selling handmade crafts, textiles, and souvenirs, or attend cultural festivals and events celebrating Mexican traditions, music, and dance.

Planning Your Los Cabos Escape

Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo adventure, Los Cabos offers a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural immersion. With its breathtaking landscapes, diverse activities, and warm hospitality, Los Cabos ensures a memorable vacation that leaves you rejuvenated and inspired, promising a return to its paradise shores time and again.