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Archive for June, 2011

Vimanmek Palace

The Vimanmek Palace is the worlds largest building made entirely of golden teak. It is also called the Cloud Mansion and is located behind the National Assembly in Bangkok Thailand. It was originally constructed on Srichang Island in the Gulf of Siam by King Rama V. In 1901 the building was shifted to its present site which was a suburb of Bangkok at the time. Its elaborate architectural style reflects a western influence. The building has two right angled wings and is three storied except for the area which King Rama V occupied. This is octagonal and four storied. The ground floor is brick and cement but the upper floors are made of beautiful golden teak.

King Rama VII renovated the Mansion between 1925 and 1934. He ordered new electrical wires and the repair of columns on the main pier in the artificial garden lake. By 1932 it was used only as a storage place. In 1982 on the auspicious occasion of the Bicentennial Anniversary of Bangkok Queen Sirikit asked King Rama IX to renovate the Mansion and build it into a museum to commemorate King Rama V. She discovered that the mansion was still intact beautiful and grand. It now displays his photographs personal art and handicraft and showcases the Thai national heritage.

The Vimanmek Palace has 31 exhibition halls. The bedrooms the throne room and the bathrooms have retained the Thai atmosphere of the past. There are silverware ceramics crystal ware and ivory on display. The highlights of this palace are the Grand Piano with Ivory keyboard photographs and gifts presented to the King Thais Blue Topaz which is 32235 karats jewelry crystal and other things. It is open to the public between 9.30 am and 3.15 pm every day including Sundays and holidays and holds traditional Thai dancing sessions twice a day which is a main event at the palace.

Bangkok is considered one of the most touristfriendly cities in the world providing many attractions events and accommodation facilities. Bangkok serviced apartments offer excellent accommodations combined with great services and modern conveniences to make stays in Bangkok truly memorable.

About the writer:  Naveen Marasinghe is an Online Marketing Executive at eMarketingEye which is a search engine marketing company that offers integrated Internet marketing services and specializes in hotel Internet marketing industry. http://www.emarketingeye.com/

Vacation Secrets 5 Unknown Travel Destinations In Panama

Panama is a country of cultural and natural beauty; its roots reach back into history as a trade hub and today its skyline everevolving as a real estate and travel hotspot. But with all the widelypublicized beauty the country retains here are our 5 spots youll rarely read about in pamphlets or see on TV.

1. Isla Canas Los Santos: This small island just south of Pedasi in Panamas Azuero Peninsula is a gem waiting to be discovered. It is the home to a thriving native population some of the most secluded beaches in the country and the nesting location of giant leatherback turtles. Bring a tent as few if any accommodations exist.
2. Lago Bayano Darien: This giant lake sits in the province of Darien which on paper is a dangerous place due to its proximity to the border with Columbia. However this region is far north enough to void you of harm; its pristine good looks enough to impress even the most seasoned ecotraveler. Explore the caves surrounding the rim of the lake or discover hidden waterfalls on perhaps on of Panamas most farflung paradises.
3. Boca Brava Chiriqui: An island lying just off the coast of Boca Chica in the Chiriqui province Boca Brava boasts white sand beaches and that great jungletosea contrast. Hire a local boatman for the day no commercial tours do this yet and explore the surrounding coastal areas where chances are youll be the only one in sight. The sport fishing is worldclass the indigenous Indians are culturally rich and its only an hour from the capital city of David!
4. Playa Chiquita Colon: The Caribbean coast in Panama is developing at a slower rate than the Pacific but there are still wonderfully quaint towns to enjoy. Drive up to Colon and head past Portobello to find this lovely beach area identified by a small fishing village and a tiny hotel. Its about 25 minutes by boat from the nearest docking area and sports that wonderful Caribbean calm; clear waters rustling palm trees and a beer on the beach are in order.
5. Torio Veraguas: Veraguas in the only province in the world that coasts two different oceans. Wander down the Azuero Peninsula to the sleepy town of Torio for surfing hiking or simple beach relaxation. Its an easy drive from the hub town of Santiago on a finelypaved road. Stop at one of the roadside shacks for fried fish or enjoy some of the last remaining 0.25 beers in the Republic.

Its best to explore these unknown paradises by car seeing as though most tour groups dont offer trips there. Also one can find easily panama real estate for sale. You will find locals to be friendly and the atmosphere to be far off the radar of traditional tourism crowds. They provide the perfect match against a night or two in cosmopolitan Panama City; showing how Panama the hub of the Americas is truly destined for tourism stardom.

About the writer:  Wain Roy is an internet marketing professional expert in various industries like real estate web design finance medical tourism pharmacy drug and Panama real estate

Trave Tips Kenya

By:David Kiarie
Are your planning your nest holiday to Kenya? Then here what you need to know
INSURANCE
You are strongly advised to take out travel and medical insurance in your country of origin. However most travel agents can arrange medical and personal insurance if required.
Within Kenya I recommend joining the Flying Doctor’s Society which for a small membership fee will provide an airlift free of charge from anywhere within Kenya accessible by air to Nairobi
HEALTH
Malaria is endemic to certain areas of East Africa and all visitors should begin taking their antimalaria prophylactics two weeks before arriving throughout their stay and for a minimum of three weeks after leaving. Pharmaceutical facilities are adequate in the big City centers. There are chemists drug stores in all major urban areas but any visitors requiring special and continuing medication should bring sufficient quantities. The equatorial sun is deceptive and can inflict severe burns even on overcast days. Good sun cream and lip balms with a high degree of sun protection factor are strongly recommended. Piped water supplies are generally safe in municipal areas but local advice should be taken particularly on safari. Bottled mineral water both local and imported can be purchased in hotels sundry shops and other tourist kiosks. Filtered and safe drinking water is often provided in thermos flasks in hotels or lodge rooms but it is advisable not to drink water from the taps rivers or lakes. Do not bathe in rivers and lakes.
SECURITY
Security is really a matter of common sense and the same precautions should be taken in our towns and cities as in any city worldwide. It is advisable not to wear jewellery especially necklaces and expensive watches do not carry large sums of money and keep a close watch on handbags wallets and camera equipment. When walking in town keep to the main thoroughfares and avoid walking at night especially alone. Make use of hotel safe or deposit boxes and never leave valuables in hotel rooms or safari vehicles. It is a good policy to travel with photocopies of your passport travelers cheques and any other important documents.
IMMIGRATION
All visitors must be in possession of a valid passport. Visa requirements vary from time to time and are dependent on the nationality of the visitor. Valid passports and visas for everyone with the exception of citizens of most Commonwealth and certain other countries with which East Africa has reciprocal waiver arrangements. Since it is essential that no visitor arrive without the correct documentation visitors are strongly recommended to check the latest requirements either from Airline offices or through the nearest Tourist Office Embassy or High Commission. Visitors with the proper documentation and holding onward return tickets may obtain “Visitor Passes” normally valid for three months on arrival at any Kenyan Port of Entry free of charge. Visitors who arrive without an onward ticket maybe asked to purchase one before obtaining a visitors pass. Visitors are not allowed to take up work or residence in Kenya without the authority of the Principal Immigration Office.
CUSTOMS
All reasonable volume of personal effects can be reasonably import together with cameras and any amount of film. Unused personal effects unexposed film cameras and accessories except cine and slide projectors may be temporarily imported free of duty. A visitor wishing to bring home video equipment in the form of cameras and cassettes should consult the nearest Consulate or High Commission as a Customs Bond is normally required for the period such equipment is in the country. Refundable deposits may be required for the temporary import of radios tape recorders and similar equipment including musical instruments.
DUTY FREE
Visitors are restricted to duty free items of 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars and one litre bottle of spirits.
MONEY
Travelers cheques and major credit cards are generally accepted in Kenya but the latter not all over other regional countries where you would be advised to carry travelers cheques and cash. Only authorized dealers and banks are allowed to change currency. There is no restriction on the amount of foreign currency that can be imported. It is strongly recommended that visitors carry little cash and as much money as they wish in freely convertible travelers cheques. It is advisable for visitors to use up or convert back any local currency before leaving as it will be difficult to change once overseas.
Please note it is an offence to destroy local currency or to deface the currency in any way.

DRIVING
Driving is on the lefthand side of the road and many of the road signs will be familiar to European drivers. Major cities are connected by roads which for the most part are well metalled with long straight stretches. Selfhire is arranged locally but not recommended you will need an International Driving Licence. A maximum speed limit is 100 kph.
CLOTHING AND ACCESSORIES
Safari wear should be comfortable and casual. Evenings and early mornings can be chilly so warm sweaters are recommended. Low heeled comfortable shoes are best and suitable walking shoes should you intend joining any walking safaris.
A hat sunglasses flashlight and binoculars are useful accessories. Most hotels lodges and camps have swimming pools so you are advised to bring swimsuits. Some specialist safaris i.e. mountain climbing require extra items of clothing and footwear details would be provided on booking. Sunscreen and insect repellent are recommended.
Laundry is possible on some safaris but not all. Although many places offer same day’ service in practice this is not always reliable. We recommend you save’ your laundry until in a city or at the coast
PHOTOGRAPHY
Its recommend that you bring your equipment extra batteries and all your film with you although all normal types of film can usually be bought in major towns. A telephoto lens is essential for good game pictures. Most lodges and hotels have facilities for recharging batteries for video and digital cameras.
Please respect the local people and only photograph them with their permission. Please be strongly advised never to attempt to take photos of border posts airports persons in uniform and military installations where photography is strictly prohibited.
ELECTRICITY
Voltage in East Africa is 220 240 AC. An adapter will be necessary for appliances which operate on 110 120 AC.
RESTAURANTS
The major cities have restaurants offering International Cuisine in Nairobi there are two excellent Italian and a number of Indian Restaurants. Traditional African food focuses on fish dishes.
TIPPING:
It is customary to give a tip of about 1 USD for 2 cases to your porter in the hotel. Waiters in restaurants can be tipped about 10 of the meal cost if service has been good. Safari driver guides should be tipped at the end of the safari at about USD 3 5 per day.

PUBLICK HOLIDAYS
New Years Day January 1st
Good Friday
Easter Monday
Labour Day/May Day May 1st
Madaraka Day June 1st
Moi Day October 10th
Kenyatta Day October 20th
Eid ul Fitr end of Ramadan depending on the sighting of the Moon
Independence Day/Jamuhuri Day December 12th
Christmas Day December 25th
Boxing Day December 26th
Should a holiday

BANKING HOURS
Mon. Fri: 0900 1400 hours
Sat: Some Banks 0900 1100 hours
On first/last Saturdays each month
NB: Banks International Airports operate a 24 hour service

About the writer:nbsp;nbsp;Am a Destination Management Travel Agent and Writer

Email:dkiariebeyondkenyasafaris.co.ke
Website:http://www.beyondkenyasafaris.co.ke