Easy way

Considering that the great Studio Traffic had been running for nearly two years when I made my debut, I was a latecomer to the get paid to auto surf scene. When I first started to take notice of the get paid to auto surf sites, I looked at the possibilities, did a double-take, looked again and wondered where the catch might be. Surely, I thought, there must be a catch, or can it really be that simple? I'll spare you the suspense and tell your right from the start that the answer was yes, it really is as simple as it appears. Before you go rushing off to spend money with auto surf for cash programmes, let me just stress that it is simple but that is not the same as saying that every get paid to auto surf site is safe. Crossing the road is pretty simple but, if you fail to look out for approaching traffic, it certainly isn't safe. Jumping out of a plane is simple but, if you don't get a parachute and a course of instructions, it's far from safe. So don't try auto surfing for cash at home until you have read the rest of this.Of course, at the start, I didn't know the answer and I toddled off into the realms of get paid to auto surf, taking baby step investments and breathing sighs of relief every day when the get paid to auto surf sites appeared and I knew my tiny investments were still safe. Considering the idiotic abandon with which I embraced the dreadful money doubler phenomenon, it might seem strange that I was so wary when it came to the auto surf for cash experience. Maybe I learned my lesson from the amount of money I wasted on the money doublers. (By the way, if you happen to know my husband, there is absolutely no need for you to mention to him anything about me and money doubler programmes. Really, no need at all.)Don't get the wrong impression through me mentioning money doublers and get paid to auto surf programmes in the same article. The auto surf for cash sites are in no way related to the money doublers or run by the same people. The one thing the two types of programme have in common is that they are very easy to do but, whereas money doublers were pure scams, get paid to auto surf sites are real online businesses where you can make money at home. The webmasters and webmistresses who own get paid to auto surf sites are, in the main, honest hard-working people, who want to have a thriving business which will bring them an ongoing income for the future. I'm not saying all auto surf for cash sites are run by saints, the owners are just ordinary people who want to make a living on the Internet, and the industry (like any other) has its share of rogues and thieves who will take your money and run, plus a few inept webmasters who just have no idea how to run a business and lose everyone's money.So, you might ask, how do I take sensible precautions against getting stung? The answer, like most things, is simple! Investigation is the answer. If you like the look of a get paid to auto surf site, join as a free member and check out the forum (if there is one). Surf to test the quality of surfing and don't invest if the surfbar is unpredictable. Email the owner to ask about the site. If you get no reply, drop the site there and then: any website owner who takes a pride in his business will respond to a member's enquiry. If you get a terse reply, pointing out that the answer to your dumb question is in the site faq's, this is still good: an abrupt reply probably means the owner is busy or has got sick of answering the same stupid questions. The point is that he is human and bothered to respond. Don't even think of giving your money to someone who ignores you from day one.Do an Internet search for forums concerned with making money online, make money at home, auto surfing, get paid to programmes etc. Read what the members are saying about the sites you are thinking of joining as this is usually a good indicator of whether the site is growing or declining. Don't, however, totally rely on the opinion of forum members because the posts often tend to be a bit hysterical and they are, of course, the voicing of personal opinions and not a handing down of the wisdom of gurus.Check out get paid to auto surf review sites. I don't mean the one page free websites that have been built simply to advertise one person's choice of programmes and build a downline. Look for serious reviews which are regularly updated, these are more likely to be written by dedicated surfers. There are some very good ones around now: I came across one just this week, where you can sign up for a course of get paid to auto surf lessons and a weekly newsletter. This sort of service takes real energy and commitment. If you read a few of these get paid to auto surf review sites, you will get a feeling for which of them belong to dedicated surfers and which are the work of sloppy amateurs who half the time don't even notice when their recommended programmes have closed down.Another thing you can do to make life as an auto surfer for cash safer is to tread the path which has already been smoothed out, tiptoe in the footsteps of the people who are already making money from auto surfing. If it is working for them, copy what they do and listen to their advice. The foremost piece of advice any decent auto surfer for cash will give you is "don't ever use cash you could not afford to lose", the second most valuable piece of advice is probably "spread your investments". If you are prepared to be patient, you can build up a decent income from small investments spread over several get paid to auto surf programmes. This way you can enjoy the get paid to auto surf experience and make some money without living in fear of your life savings being carried out to sea on the virtual surf.

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Meditation

Meditation is found in some form or another in all major religious traditions but in Buddhism it is integral to the path to enlightenment. The practitioner trains his or her mind so that it can understand the four-points that form the core of the Buddha’s teaching: suffering, what causes it, the end of suffering, and the path to that end.
Consequently, the art of meditation is a highly developed one in Thailand. One doesn’t need to be a Buddhist, or even be interested in Buddhism, to benefit from meditation. A valuable training that can be applied to daily life, it greatly helps concentration and can lead to a state of peace and calmness, no matter where the meditation is performed.

There are two main branches in Buddhist meditation: Samatha (calmness, concentration) and Vipassana (insight), which stresses mindfulness.

The techniques of Samatha meditation are many, some of them older than Buddhism itself. Amongst the most commonly practiced in Thailand is Anapanasati, or “mindfulness with breathing”. Mantra meditation, in which given words are repeated over and over to help focus the mind, is also widely practiced. Kasinas, where mediators concentrate on an object outside themselves, such as a crystal ball and candle flame, is yet another form.

Sati, or mindfulness, is the key to Vipassana meditation. When the mind is untrained it is wide open to outside disturbances, and the objective is to be aware of what happens but not dwell upon it. So you train yourself to be aware of the body’s movement, the rise and fall of the chest as you inhale and exhale, the movement of the legs and feet as you walk, and your feelings and state of mind. Walking, sitting and lying meditation are a few of the Vipassana techniques, and to avoid distractions as far as possible the retreats are usually held in isolated and peaceful surroundings.Meditation teachings are widely available in Thailand for Thais and visitors alike, ranging from English language day classes in Bangkok through to intensive month-long Vipassana courses at remote retreats in the provinces.

Credit : Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT)

Golf courses in Thailand

GOLFING IN THAILAND

Golf is one of the most popular sports in Thailand. The game arrived in the county a century ago and was quickly taken up by the elite and the fashionable. Among the first sponsors of the game were the armed forces and government institutions, which built and continue to own some of the finest courses in the county.
About 350,000 visitors are believed to have played golf in Thailand in 2002, generating an expenditure of nearly 6.2 billion baht. The Tourism Authority of Thailand is planning to raise these figures to one million golfers, generating an estimated 18.45 billion baht by 2007. In 2004 alone, the plan is to attract 400,000 golfers. Who will generate an estimated 7.1 billion baht, an increase of 14.29% over 2002.
There are over 200 high standard golf courses nationwide, many of them championship standards. The world’s top designers have made a significant contribution. Jack Nicklaus, Roboert Trent Jones Jr, Pete De Gar Player and many others have perfected modern layouts, using the best grasses and latest techniques.
The result is some of the most attractive courses in Asia, with excellent facilities, memorable signature holes and regular maintenance to keep them in top-class condition. Every course has its caddies; it's mandatory to empoly one caddie for your round. They are Thailand’s secret weapon in making golf such good fun. These brightly clad ladies, in smart uniforms and straw hats, know lots about the course, smile almost all the time, and very good at reading putts.
There are at least a few courses in or within easy reach of all major cites. Most of the newer courses offer accommodation on site or nearby, plus recreational facilities for the whole family.
For the more adventurous, there are older, natural courses in remote areas around the courses in remote areas around the country owned by the Royal Irrigation Department, the Electricity Generation Authority of Thailand, all offering good value. So for golfers who not only appreciate a challenging course, but an exotically different one too, there is an extraordinary choice.
The best time to plan a golfing trip is the cool season, from November to March. From April to October it is hot and wet, but even in the rainy months the downfall usually comes in the afternoon, and for only a few minutes. Most courses have good drainage systems, and the rains should not interrupt your game for long. At some facilities you may need to book ahead, through your club or your hotel, and advance booking is recommended for weekends. Greens fees continue to be very reasonable, as are the fees for caddies.
As most of the golf courses are located in the provinces, promoting golf also furthers the TAT policy of ensuring that throughout the provinces.

Bangkok & the Central region

There are many championship standard courses in Bangkok and around the city perimeter, while the neighbouring provinces of Pathom Thani to the north, Nakhon Pathom to the northwest, and Chachaoengsao to the east, each boast a number of world-class facilities.
This region is the major rice bowl of the county, and many of the courses have been carved out of rice paddies, compensating for the flat terrain with beautiful layouts and lots of water hazards. The older courses have shadier fairways, with mature vegetation, making it pleasant to play even in the most torrid months.

Eastern region

The provinces on the Eastern Seaboard are major agricultural and industrial producers. In the past decade, recreational golf has grown in step with the industrial estates, with new courses springing up to serve the expatriates and local enthusiasts. Some of the most famous names in golf have created impressive layouts with first-class facilities out of rocky and sandy terrain. Some cater to serious players, others fall somewhere in between
Golfing action is centred around Chon Buri and Pattaya. Just two hour’s drive from the capital, the area is ideal for day trips, though most courses, if they don’t have their own hotels, are within a short drive of good accommodation.

Western region

Golf in the Westerm region is centerd in the Hua hin and Cha-am area, and around the River Kwai in Kanchanaburi. Hua Hin and Cha-am are both resort tower on the Gulf of Thailand, with excellent hotel accommodation. The Royal Hua Hin Golf Course is the oldest course in Thailand. The weather on the coastline here is pleasant for most of the year, with cooling breezes offering respite from the sun even in the hottest months.
Kanchanburi, which like the two resort towns is around two hours by road from Bangkok, is know primarily as the site of the historic Bridge Over the River Kwai. Now, however, it is becomingly known as an attractive destination for recreational golfers, with several world-class courses in picturesque settings. The courses have their own accommodation onsite or nearby the river but few in the town itself, so reservations are advisable.

Northern region

The North is ideal for a golf holiday, with its long mountain ranges, wide valleys and spectacular jungle scenery within easy reach of culture rich cities, and pleasant weather year-round. Because of the altitude it is cooler than other regions, with temperature in the single digits in the cool months of December and January.
The regional capital of Chiang Mai, 700 kilometrwes from Bangkok, has the biggest number of golf courses, most with magnificent views of surrounding hills and valleys. Chiang Rai, three hour’s drive further north, boasts a number of championship courses in picturesque settings. Around the region are game of courses owned and run by the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand, in areas surrounding its dams, with moderate albeit comfortable accommodation nearby.

Northeastern region

Golf in the Northeast is centred around the Khao Yai area in Nakhon Ratchasima, gateway to the region, about three hours’ drive from Bangkok. Khao Yai, the largest protected area in the country, enjoys the status of a National Pack. The area is at fairly high altitude, so the weather is pleasant all year round, with temperatures averaging 7-8 degrees Celsius lower than in Bangkok. It is possible to drive to Khao Yai, enjoy a round of golf and then return to Bangkok within the day, but there is first-rate accommodation in the area if you choose to stay for a few days

Southern region

The major resort towns on the southern peninsula, know for their pristine beaches and first-class facilities, are also home to some of the best golf anywhere. The island of Phuket off the western coast has some of the country’s coat has some of the country’s best courses, including the Blue Canyon, host to the Johnnie Walker Classic in 1994 and again in 1998.
Neighbouring Phang-nga, also on the coast of the Andama, has one of only a handful of links-type Samui has the country. The island of Samui has the Samui Golf Club & Driving Range, with professional golf instructor. The southern courses have been carved out of tin-mine workings and coconut plantations, and are set against spectacular backdrops of ocean, mountains and wooded hills.

Golf tour packages

Seven days near Bangkok
DAY 1: Early morning visit to the Grand Palace and Emerald Bubbha Temple. Then take the expressway to the Robert Trent Jones Jr-designed Green Valley County Club for lunch and an afternoon round. Evening at leisure, or try shopping at one of the many malls that stay open until 10 pm.
DAY 2: Early round at the Scottish link –style Bangsai County Club. In the evening, learn something about Thai culture with a dinner of traditional Thai dishes accompanied by a class dance performance.
DAY 3: Discover the Thai life with a cruise along the Chao Phreya River to the former Siamese capital of Ayutthaya, with lunch on board. Stop first at Bang Pa-in summer palace, then on to Ayutthaya to see some of the fascinting ruins of this World Heritage Site. Have fun in the evening in one of the city’s many lrish pubs.
DAY 4: Early round at the Arnold Palmer-designed Bangpoo Country Club. In the evening try shopping at the popular night stalls along Silom and discos help end an eventful day.
DAY 5: Early visit to the Floating Market at Damnoen Saduak about 100 kilometres from Bangkok. Then onto the Rose Garden County Resort for lunch, Followed by one of the best cultueal shows in Thailand, with elephants, dancing, and many traditional ceremonies. Stay overnight.
DAY 6: Early round at the Rose Garden Golf Club, rated one of the world’s top 30 resort courses full of flowers and brids.The clubhouse servers excellent Thai and Japanese food. Return to Bangkok for dinner at one of the wellknown seafood restaurants on the river.
Day 7: Finish your tour with a game at the Robert McFarland-designed Thanont Golf View & Spots Club. In the evening, relax over Thai dinner and noisy Jazz/blues performances at one of Bangkok’s many popular music venues.

Credit : Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT)

Aqua Culture

From the icy Polar Regions to the balmy tropics of the earth, water in its many guises is a source of life. Like air, water is essential. Without it we would wither and die. In its variable forms it has the power to heal, calm, invigorate and destroy. Water’s transformative qualities make it a universal symbol of fertility, birth, regeneration and purification. The word spa is rooted in the Latin sanus per aqua meaning “health through water” and as ice, liquid or steam, H20 is central to the idea of spa.
The northern Thai folklore manuscript Pathamamulamuli contains a description of the creation of the world. Translated by Anatole-Roger Peltier it beautifully illustrates how everything that is springs from water. “When the world was not yet in existence, there were only the cold and the hot. By coming together and by feeding each other, these two states of matter gave rise to a wind that blew very strongly and called into existence the earth and water. The moisture released by rocks produced mosses and seaweeds which, in turn, gave rise to grasses, plants and trees. Insects such as fleas and beetles were born from the elements earth, water, fire, then beings endowed with bones and blood. From the element earth a woman called Nang Itthang Gaiya Sangkasi was born. The scent of flowers was her only food. Mixing her sweat with clay, she molded animals so that they ate the plants that grew in plenty.”

The Thai people have an enduring relationship with water and both are inextricably entwined. Water lies at the heart of the Songkran and Loy Krathong festivals celebrated annually in April and November respectively. Early communities congregated on rivers or canals, or by the sea, while some lived in floating houses. Natural springs, streams and rivers are regarded the world over as special places where magical supernatural beings live. The mythical serpent or naga, which is commonly seen in traditional Thai architecture, symbolises water. It is said to live underground, or in water and links water with the earth. One of its roles was to protect the Buddha whilst he meditated. The sacred lotus, a water plant, is depicted in art and is commonly offered to monks in temples throughout Thailand. It rises up from the water representing the enlightened Buddha, free of earthly cares and illuminated with the light of spirit.
The sound of water is as restorative as its form. Rhythmic ocean waves can transport us to a meditative state, whilst the crash of monsoon rains remind us of the power of nature. The world over, rain is described in numerous and often romantic ways. On a more mundane plane, water takes up more than 60 percent of our body weight. Evolutionists tell us that we originated in the ancient oceans where the first primitive life forms began and thus our affinity with the sea. We cry salty sea tears. Even the ratio of electrolytes in our body is equivalent to that of seawater.
An array of water treatments, all broadly classified under hydrotherapy, includes baths and showers, hot and cold compresses, body wraps and salt scrubs. Hydrotherapy is essential for improving health conditions, alleviating pain, beautifying the body and managing stress. When applied therapeutically it can stimulate the immune system, boost blood circulation, eliminate toxins, soothe and invigorate. It is one of the most versatile media for health maintenance.
Painful conditions such as arthritis or muscular pain respond well to hydrotherapy because its main focus is to help the body eliminate toxins. Conditions thought to be caused by toxic residue, and the discomfort that often accompanies them, can be greatly alleviated by immersion in heated water. In fact many health problems can be diminished with a regular application of directed water because of its ability to increase blood circulation to affected areas of the body. No spa visit is complete without a water treatment and by having a hydrotherapy treatment at a favourite spa, or dipping in a river or floating on gentle ocean waves, we are “taking the waters” and experiencing spa’s original essence.

THAI WATER THERAPIES

Water therapies found in Thai spas include traditional as well as Western methods. The unmistakable bouquet of the traditional Thai herbal steam may be found all over the country. Commonly used herbs such as lemongrass, galangal or ginger root, kaffir lime leaf, basil and camphor were traditionally boiled in a pot which was placed in a makeshift tent. The fresh scent of the herbs in the resulting steam was inhaled, improving blood circulation and cleansing the skin. Today Thai herbal steam rooms range from traditional-style tent arrangements to sophisticated steam rooms. Thai herbal baths use similar herbs to those used for steam, bruised in a mortar, placed in a cloth bag and soaked in the bath. The effect is calming and uplifting, providing welcome relief for overworked muscles or irritated skin.
Thailand is known for its therapeutic hot compresses containing numerous herbs. Fresh or dried, the herbs are tightly bound in fabric, steamed until piping hot and firmly rolled, pressed or pounded over the entire body. Compresses are traditionally applied after Thai Massage to prevent bruising, reduce muscle stress and cure skin conditions. The contents are prescribed according to the condition being treated, with some of the most commonly used herbs being zedoary (khamin oi), turmeric (khamin chan), lemongrass (takhrai), kaffir lime (makrut), camphor tree (naat), tamarind (makham) and plai (scientific name: zingiber cassumar).

SHOWERS AND BATHS

The simplicity of running a bath after a hard day has a near miraculous effect. People who are tense, overworked and stressed do well by soaking in a hot bath. Heat has a calming effect, slowing the activities of the internal organs. If tired and in need of rejuvenation, a hot bath followed by a cold shower invigorates and stimulates body and mind.
The Vichy shower is a wet treatment where the client lies on a table whilst alternating hot and cold water is sprayed from above from a minimum of seven showerheads. Asian-designed versions are often made of beautiful, local materials such as brass, bamboo or wood that work well with the natural spa ambience. Swiss shower therapy sprays water overhead and at the sides of the body. The jets are alternately powerful and gentle and the temperature is also varied. Scotch hose treatments alternate hot and cold water at high pressure whilst the client is standing.
This is a specific hydro massage treatment and is highly stimulating for the lymphatic and circulatory systems. Jacuzzi or whirlpool baths are commonly found all over the world. Warm water is sprayed from jets placed at the side and sometimes from the bottom of a tub. This is an effective and accessible remedy for stress and tired muscles.

BODY WRAPS

Rice is plentiful and a number of varieties are native to Asia. It is no coincidence that this water-loving grain is widely used as an exfoliate in body scrubs. Another popular choice is sea salt. Both make skin smooth and soft and salt has the extra benefit of being packed with healthy minerals.

UNDERWATER MASSAGE

A feeling of weightlessness adds a dreamy dimension to this massage technique, inducing a deep level of relaxation and release from tension. While floating on an effervescent stream of water, underwater jets continuously massage specific areas such as neck, shoulders, hips, thighs and feet. Meanwhile the therapist uses a high pressure hose to massage specific problem areas.

WATSU

A relative newcomer to the scene, Watsu combines some Shiatsu techniques such as pressures and stretching with a sequence of fluid, dance-like movements while the client is fully supported and guided by the practitioner. Like most Eastern-orientated bodywork, Watsu releases blockages along the body’s energy meridians, rebalances energies and deeply relaxes.

Credit : Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT)

SCUBA DIVING

Scuba diving is Thailand’s most popular water sport and the country boosts some of the most beautiful dive sites in the world – the water is clear, sea life plentiful, transport and accommodation readily available and instruction to a very high standard. Diving in Thailand is comparatively cheap, and once you have achieved your certification in Thailand, you can use it to go scuba-diving all over the world.
Diving is available at all times of the year, although visibility changes according to the season. In the Andaman Sea, the best time to dive is from October to April, and in the Gulf of Thailand from May to September. At recommended dive sites in Thailand the water is so clear that the under-water world is visible from the surface: whale sharks, manta rays, marlin, flying fish, dolphins and coral reefs.
All reputable dive shops are affiliated with PADI or other international dive bodies, and most hold courses in multiple languages. All over Thailand, you can expect modern amenities, international standard boats and professional facilities.
For group or family travelers, all good live aboard operations will take non-divers along at a substantially reduced fee. Friends and family can relax, swim, sunbathe, snorkel and still enjoy the food, trip, scenery and experience of sailing in some of the world’s most beautiful waters.
Underwater experience
Day 1 : Transfer from Phuket Airport to Chalong Bay. Board night boat from the bay to Similan islands.
Day 2 : Arrive Similan. Rest of the day at dive sites around island exploring the reefs of the Similan Archipelago and myriad colours exhibited by countless fish and corals. There are three dive spots scheduled, and one night dive.
Day 3 : Continue your diving odyssey at three locations. Three daytime dives are scheduled at Ko Bon island and Ko Tachai, home to manta rays, whale sharks and colourful coral. There is one dive at Surin Island.
Day 4 : Three dives scheduled at Richelieu Rock, playground of the whale shark.
Day 5 : Dive at three more Similan locations before taking the night boat to Phuket.

Andaman adventure

Day 1 : From Patong Beach, Phuket, sail overnight to the Similan Islands.
Day 2 – 3 : Wake up at a Similan dive site and after breakfast, explore the area. Surroundings Range from delicate sloping reefs to giant boulder drop-offs The variety of marine life here is exceptional, with diverse corals and an enormous huge range of fish. Set sail For the Myanmar Banks in the evening.
Day 4 – 5 : Two days are spent on the Myanmar Banks exploring marine life including many different varieties of shark The area is subject to strong currents and changing underwater visibility visibility so it is strictly for experienced dives.
Day 6 : Dive at Richelieu Rock and Ko Ta-chai. Return to Similan in the evening
Day 7 : The last full day of diving around Similan, visiting several important reefs such as Shark's fin and Elephant's Head. Evening departure for the return passage to Phuket.
Day 8 : Early morning arrival at Patong. Participating divers should be certificated, but there is plenty of action on these tours for non-divers and various entertainments on board the mother ship, plus the chance to explore ashore.

Divers' paradise

Day 1 : Arrive Samui and continue by boat to Ko Tao (Turtle Island). After lunch, enjoy swimming and snorkeling around this tiny island considered to be the best dive site in the Gulf. The marine ecology of Ko Tao is the habitat of several rare species, including spotted rays, giant trigger fish and the occa-sional and harmless whale shark.
Day 2 – 7 : Enjoy diving lessons offered by international-standard diving schools or discovering the beautiful under-water world with experienced divers.
Day 8 : Leave Ko Tao for Chumphon. City tour and visit to the many caves and beautiful beaches. Overnight in Chumpon.

Dive sites

ANDAMAN SEA : Dive sites are found off the coast of Phuket with prime spots such as Shark Point, Red Rock, Ko Yao, Ko Yai, and the twin islands of Ko Racha, extending to the Similan and Surin islands to the west, Krabi and Trang to the east.
GULF OF HAILAND : Sites are around Ko Samui, Ko Pha-ngan, Ko Tao, Ko Nang Yuan, Mu Ko Ang Thong Marine National Park, and Ko Chang in Trat Province near the Combodian border.
EAST COAST : On the east coast of the Gulf, Pattaya offers dive trips out to Ko Larn, Ko Sak, Ko Krok, Ko Rin, Ko Pai and Ko Marn Vichai. There are dozens of dive shops offering courses and tours to any level and in any language.

Misconceptions about learning

IT IS DANGEROUS.

• Not true. All the recommended dive companies listed here are PADI certified and have well qualified, experienced staff. As long as divers follow instructions and are prepared, there is less danger than swimming in the sea.

IT TAKES A LONG TIME TO LEARN AND IS EXPENSIVEv Not true. All PADI centres offer

• beginner’s courses in a swimming pool for a half or full day. Becoming PADI certified will take four days in Thailand. Anyone over eight years can do a “Bubble Blowers” course in a pool for free. A Discover Scuba Diving course will cost around 4,000 baht and take one day. A full Open Water PADI course will take four days and cost around 10,000 baht

IT’S DIFFICULT AND YOU HAVE TO BE VERY FIT.

• Not true. Anyone over the age of 12 can do a PADI certified course. As long as they are in good medical condition and have no history of asthma, heart or breathing problems, a severe cold or problems with your ears, then they are ready to dive.

Precautions & preparations

There are some precautions and preparations that should be taken before diving, whether you are experienced or a beginner.

• Never go diving too soon after or before flying. The change in atmospheric pressure can cause “The Bends” either underwater or in the air, so divers should always consult an instructor to time diving and training to flight schedules
• Never dive after a heavy meal. The blood flows to the stomach to aid digestion and may cause cramp.
• Never consume alcohol before diving (including the night before). The underwater effect of alcohol is multiplied many times, leading to disorientation and lack of judgment.
• If a heavy smoker, cut down before beginning to dive.
• Always follow safety procedures as advised by the instructor.
• Never go diving alone.
• If a diver has experience but has not been diving for a while (six months or more), they should tell the instructor and ask for a quick refresher course on procedures, safety and practices.
• Look for PADI certified dive shops only. Ask around at the resort to see who is recommended. Don’t take the first option or the cheapest (necessarily).
• If sure to dive before leaving on a trip, access the official PADI site at Padi.com and look for PADI certified dive shops at the destination.
• Read as much as possible about the destination. If experienced, a diver should know about the best dive sites before they even get to a resort.

Credit : Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT)

Eco-Tourism

Thailand is fortunate in its prime location for tourism in terms of such natural attractions as beaches and mountains, cultural and historical sites which reflect the glories of Thai civilization, and a sophisticated infrastructure, allowing visitors easy access to all these treasures.

The government's policy on tourism for the past years has been gearing towards more and more sustainable tourism development with emphasis on community participation, safety of tourists and non-exploitation. The term “eco-tourism” has been widely used to describe a form of tourism in natural areas that is based on the knowledge about and responsibility towards the ecological system of the area.

At present, the number of real eco-tourism visitors is still minimal. Mostly, those tourists are included in other types of tourism such as nature-based tourism, agro-tourism, cultural and historical tourism and health tourism. Most of such tourism areas are in natural parks and specific historical-cultural areas.

The national parks system in Thailand was previously cited its growing importance to the eco-tourism industry. With most parks easily accessible by road, there exists excellent potential to expand the number of visitors who use them.

In the case of the Maekong River, the nature-based tourism potential particularly applies to Northeast Thailand, an area that the TAT has identified as a priority for tourism development. The national parks in close proximity to the Mekong River include sites of prehistoric, archaeological and natural significance. As the Mekong region increases in its exposure and popularity, these parks will experience an increased number of visitors in search of quality eco-tours.

One marine eco-tourism, the last 30 years saw the country establishing 18 marine national parks as well as more than 70 terrestrial ones. Many of the activities available on and around Thailand's crystal seas are environmentally sound. Sea canoeing, windsurfing biking, walking, swimming, snorkeling and sailing are, when practiced as they should be, perfectly respectful of nature. Diving, the most popular water sport in Thailand, can be just as green.

Thailand has a great opportunity to promote eco-tourism, especially when compared to other countries in the Asia region. The kingdom enjoys such benefits as easy access, sophisticated infrastructure and myriad tourist attractions and activities.

Credit : Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT)

Spa Products

Visitors to the country often remark on the beauty and grace of the Thai people and their traditions. Herbal recipes and procedures handed down through centuries testify to the importance of beauty and well-being in Thai culture. It is no wonder then that Thailand has become well-known for its spas, which are fast turning into centres for things beautiful and serene. Of all the components that make a spa special, the type of products used ranks high on the list. Products are indicative of what is considered important by spa operators and are selected because they complement the spa’s concept and suit their guests’ needs and preferences. Every successful spa knows that products are one of the key factors in attracting and keeping guests. In short, spa products for therapy and retail are essential elements in a memorable spa experience. At their best, they are a sensory delight that not only engage touch, taste, hearing, sight and smell but also impart a sense of wellbeing and beauty.
Spa goers have a range of goals, but two of the most important are to relax and to look good. That is why so many spas use natural, “feel-good” spa ranges as well as more expensive imported brands that provide more immediate visible results.

NATURAL PRODUCTS

Natural product ranges are mainly derived from plants and there are certainly many well- known herbal options for those seeking an authentic Thai spa experience. Classic Thai healing herbs fall into nine taste categories: astringent, sweet, nauseating, bitter, pungent, nutty, fragrant, salty and sour. Each has particular properties and benefits and single applications or combinations can be formulated to achieve a specific result. Popular ingredients regularly used in Thai treatments are lime, papaya, tamarind, pineapple, turmeric, plai, ginger, honey, egg, rice, kaffir lime leaf, white clay, camphor, aloe vera, lemon grass, rice and rice bran oil.
As many people these days have sensitivities to chemicals, one of the benefits in using a chemical- free, natural spa range is that the possibility of an allergic reaction is reduced. Essential oils are found in practically every spa range and are one of the most versatile spa ingredients because of their effect on body, mind and spirit. As well as the physical benefits, aromatherapy research shows that we respond psychologically and emotionally to certain scents. Well-blended massage oils are designed to evoke specific responses and that is why some essential oils are more popular than others in the formulations of spa products.
Widely used essential oils such as lavender, orange, sandalwood and the expensive jasmine and rose all affect the nervous system and can help relieve stress and depression. French basil, rosemary and vetiver are excellent for alleviating fatigue and nervous exhaustion. Ylang ylang, rose otto and sandalwood appear in romantic blends because of their aphrodisiac properties, whilst clary sage is said to heighten intuition.
Those who regularly use completely pure, natural products may notice that each batch has slight variations of fragrance, despite the most controlled production processes. Anyone who has lived with the highly scented Asiatic lily knows that throughout the day, at certain times, its aroma is much stronger than at other times when it is barely perceptible. This is because plants, unlike chemicals and synthetics, are subject to variation and faithfully respond to their environment. Potency, colour and scent fluctuate enormously and depend on a number of environmental factors. The best natural product makers ensure control over each step of the manufacturing process. Where and how the plant is grown is important with some producers insisting on plants grown in organic soil. The method of harvesting, the age of the plant and the time of day it is picked are crucial factors in ensuring maximum potency. The extraction method used, the blending of the formula and the way the product is packaged all make a world of difference to the power and efficacy of the final product.

IMPORTED PRODUCTS

Imported products are used in many Thai spas and are favoured by clients who expect immediate, visible results. That is not to say that natural products don’t work, but they tend to work best over time. Products from Europe, Australia and the USA may all be found in Thai spas. Name brands such as Guinot and Decleor have traditionally focused on beauty and aesthetics. However, with the emergence of spas as a permanent fixture of the modern lifestyle, more companies are developing ranges that are specifically spa focused. These tend to contain ingredients derived from plant or sea. The Japanese skincare company, Shiseido, has a spa line known as Qi, using mainly plant ingredients.
Because the sea is intrinsically linked to the concept of spa, Algotherm’s spa range and Thalgo, both from France, contain a wide variety of laminaria, commonly known as seaweed, in all their products. The sea offers all of the elements necessary for cellular function and seaweed has the same balanced composition but is thousands of times more concentrated. Seaweed is highly active and beneficial. Its ability to stimulate cellular activity and increase the efficiency of lymphatic fluid helps the body to detoxify, making it a popular ingredient for slimming products and cellulite treatments.
Muds for beauty and therapy have been used for centuries and may be found all over the world. Rich mud collected from ancient moors such as the Neydharting Moor in Austria is laden with high concentrations of active substances from herbs, flowers and plants. It is rich in bio-minerals, trace elements, vitamins, amino acids, plant hormones and fatty acids, all broken down, pre-digested and highly assimilable, ready to be absorbed and used by the body. The molecular structure of the substance is so fine that it penetrates the skin.
Mud from the Dead Sea in Israel is mineral rich and contains a high percentage of calcium, potassium and magnesium chloride, all of which have a healing effect on skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema and stimulate, tone and cleanse the skin. Mud is particularly useful for the treatment of cellulite and for treating blemished skin and like seaweed, it can be used on both face and body.
The luxurious Devarana Spa uses the Jurlique line from Australia because of the guaranteed purity of the products and their sensational textures and natural complex fragrances. Devarana has gone one step further and even has its own specially composed music designed to accompany all treatments. Six Senses Spa offers its guests Sodashi, an Australian brand, because they share common values including ethical principles and purity of product with a holistic hands-on approach.

Spas with home brands often use locally sourced and manufactured products. Sheraton’s Grande Spa’s Integrity range uses lemongrass as a common component in each of its products because it is widely available and has wide-ranging therapeutic uses. Perfect for hot climates, lemongrass effortlessly eliminates body odour, reduces stress, refreshes and tones the skin and relaxes the mind.
Banyan Tree, a spa pioneer, made a name for its spas with unique treatments incorporating freshly made herbal and other natural products. One of its signature treatments uses a refreshing combination of cucumber and lemongrass in a body scrub.
Home spa devotees are finding more goods to purchase as retailing becomes an essential element in the spa business. Besides an array of skin-care ranges, many more spa-inspired categories of goods are appearing. Traditional Thai herbal products including hot compresses, teas and herbs can be bought to enjoy at home. Apparel for movement therapies such as yoga or Thai Massage or for just plain lounging come in an array of colours and fabrics. Ambient music, essential oils, massage oils, incense and natural fragrances ensure that part of the home space can be turned into a sanctuary of calm. Retail products beautifully packaged in fabrics such as Thai silk, or in natural, hand-made papers have a distinctive Thai flavour. Traditional Thai ceramics such as the famous celadon are fired to makeoil burners, ceremonial tea sets, bowls and incense holders. Well-known manufacturers of bath and shower ranges now have specially branded spa lines which are widely available.
The spa culture is here to stay. More people are becoming aware of the importance of making time to indulge the senses and to create calm in the midst of a busy life. By beautifying and sweetening life, spa products certainly help to achieve this. Relax and enjoy both their cosmetic benefits and their therapeutic qualities.

Credit : Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT)