#Krabi

#Krabi

Krabi (Thai : กระบี่) is one of the southern provinces (Changwat) of Thailand, at the shore of the Andaman Sea. Neighboring provinces are (from north clockwise) Phang Nga, Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat and Trang. The Phuket province to the west is also neighboring, but without any land boundary. The capital of the region is the city of Krabi. In a small province of Krabi lies a small town with the same name. Paying a visit Krabi town when you travel Thailand is worth the time. Located south of Bangkok near Phuket and Phi Phi island, the town features great beaches along with high end hotels and not so expensive hotel that cater tourists of different classes. The province is located at the shore to the Andaman Sea. Most notable are the solitary limestone hills, both on the land and in the sea as island. Rock climbers from all over the world travel to Railay Beach to climb. Of about 130 islands belonging to the province, Kho Phi Phi Lee is perhaps the most famous, as it was the set of the movie The Beach. The coast of the province was badly damaged by the tsunami on December 26, 2004. Other island include : Kho Phi Phi Don, part of the Phi Phi Islands, and Kho Lanta, a larger island to the south.

#The Charming Handicrafts of Northern Thailand

#The Charming Handicrafts of Northern Thailand

For many visittors to Chiang Mai, the Culture of Northern Thailand is best represented by beautiful temples and endless trekking in the mountains. There is however more to this area than colourful hill tribes and elephant rides. Many people have now discovered the fantastic shopping including the Baan Tawai craft centre, which can be found just to the south of the city. Among the many bargains here are a huge selection of handicrafts and cultural souvenires. Chiang Mai has a famous Night Bazaar which is popular destination for visitors looking for interesting items to take home. Most people leave having purchased far more than they intended to, and the local shipping companies do a roaring business. The choice of goods on display is bewildering, and everything from antiques to silk products can be found. You may be surprised to know Baan Tawai has many of the same products for sale as the Night Bazaar and more, and much cheaper prices. The area has been established as an artisan centre for considerable time, but the growing number of tourists over the last five years has led to an expansion. A new wing has been added in addition to the existing arcades of small shops and stalls. A number of large shops that deal in antiques, furniture and outdoor ceramics can also be found on the road leading to the centre. Many overseas handicraft dealers make regular visitors to Baan Tawai to make bulk purchases for their outlets abroad. You may only be looking for a new souvenirs to take home, but it is worthwhile spending half a day here browsing the many stalls. The items on display are among the cheapest you find anywhere in Thailand and include bamboo products, wall hangings, vases, frames, oil and soap gift packs, lamps, ornaments, antique reproducts, silk, incense, candles and much more. You may see these products at other tourist centtres in Phuket, Bangkok, Pattaya, Chaing Mai, and Samui, but the choice will be far less and the prices up to 200 percent more expensive. Most of the handicraft at Baan Tawai are made from natural materials and are uniquely Thai. (Author : Sue Mumford)