PAL flies to Bangkok from Cebu
Nelia Neri, Aida Uy, Len Rivera, Suzette Gabutina, Gwen Po, Baby Dy
Thailand has always held a special charm: the raw excitement of Bangkok, the gentle sloping hill towns of the north and the sun-bleached resorts on its shores all have their own distinctive appeal.
With Philippine Airlines flying directly from Cebu, and on the invitation of the Tourism Authority of Thailand led by its representative Len Rivera, a select group of travel specialists participated in a four-day familiarization tour to explore the newest exciting destinations this Land of Smiles has to offer.
Thailand’s culture is built upon Buddhism that influences all aspects of daily life. It focuses on the “wat,” a group of buildings which serve as monastery, temple and community center. One of the most stunning temples is Wat Arun, known as the Temple of Dawn. The imposing spire is 70-meters high and is beautifully decorated with pieces of colored glass and Chinese porcelain placed delicately into intricate patterns.
Asiatique, the Riverfront is Bangkok’s large-scale riverside project that combines shopping, dining and sightseeing. The compelling cultural aspect sets it apart from other malls. It is a balance between tradition and modernism.
On the east of the Gulf of Thailand is Pattaya, once a quiet fishing village and now lined with resort hotels, high-rise condos, shopping malls and a variety of wholesome attractions. Check these out:
• Art in Paradise. It’s the first 3D arts museum in Thailand and the largest in the world. Created by South Korean Shin Jae Yeoul, the museum has more than 150 3D interactive paintings that are represented in the form of small sceneries and compositions.
• Ramayana Water Park. Located just outside Pattaya, Ramayana Water Park offers more than its 21 exquisitely designed waterslides many of which are totally unique. There are two kids zones, a record-breaking double wave pool, two dueling aqua coasters, slide adventures and well-maintained pools and rivers to be explored and enjoyed.
• Nong Nooch. This 2.4 sq.km. landscaped park gives a glimpse of many famous gardens such as England’s Stonehenge and France’ Versailles. Equally fascinating are species-specific gardens like cactus and succulent plants, orchid nurseries, tropical bonsai and topiary.
• The Pattaya Floating Market. Established under the concept of presenting cultures and traditions for the four diverse regions of Thailand, this floating market showcases unique ethnic products such as wood sculptures, textiles and silverware. Eye catching are the small floating kitchens that offer snacks and simple meals all at once.
Thailand is labeled “paradise” not only for its breathtaking beauty and inspiring culture, but also for its culinary brilliance. Adding to this is the warm Thai hospitality that offers an enriching and memorable experience to locals and tourists alike. Most definitely this is a destination that merits a return visit.
