หมู่บ้านงูจงอาง จังหวัดขอนแก่น

by
หมู่บ้านงูจงอางห่างจากตัวจังหวัดขอนแก่นประมาณ  50 กิโลเมตร ชื่อจริงของหมู่บ้านคือบ้านโคกสง่า ตำบลทรายมูล อำเภอน้ำพอง จังหวัดขอนแก่น หมู่บ้านที่รายล้อมไปด้วยงูทั่วทั้งหมู่บ้านเพราะชาวบ้านใช้งูในการแสดงเพื่อหารายได้เสริมนอกเหนือจากการทำเกษรตกร การแสดงจัดขึ้นทุกวันและก็มีการรับบริจาค การเดินทางหมู่บ้านโคกสง่าหรือหมู่บ้านงูจงอาง ตั้งอยู่ตำบลทรายมูล อำเภอน้ำพอง จังหวัดขอนแก่น ห่างจากตัวจังหวัดประมาณ 50 กิโลเมตร จากเมืองขอนแก่น ใช้เส้นทาง ถนนมิตรภาพ (เส้นทางหมายเลข 2 สายขอนแก่น-อุดรธานี) ถึงหลักกิโลเมตรที่ 33 เลี้ยวขวาทางไปอำเภอกระนวน ถนนหมายเลข 2039 (น้ำพอง-กระนวน) ถึงหลักกิโลเมตรที่ 14 (ระยะทาง 14 กม.) สังเกตเห็นป้อมตำรวจพังทุยอยู่ด้านซ้ายมือ ด้านขวามือจะมองเห็นป้ายหมู่บ้านงูจงอางเลี้ยวขวาไปตามถนนเข้าไปประมาณ 1.2 กม. ผ่านวัดสระแก้ว บ้านนางาม ถัดจากวัดจะเป็นสี่แยก ที่อ่านหนังสือพิมพ์ประจำหมู่บ้าน เลี้ยวซ้ายไป 600 เมตร ถึงบ้านโคกสง่าตรงไปที่วัดศรีธรรมา ซึ่งเป็นที่ตั้งเรือนเพาะพันธุ์งูจงอาง และสถานที่จัดแสดงงูจงอาง   king-cobra-village    

Useful Legal Resources for Expats in Thailand

The candle festival in Ubon Ratchathani

by

The candle festival (Poang Lang) in Ubon Ratchathani is one of the most holy and popular events in Thailand. The festival takes place in the month of July every year and it is called Khao Phansa by the locals. The candle festival of Ubon Ratchatani coincides with the Asanha Bucha and the Vassa ritual. Asanha Bucha takes place as a tribute to the first sermon of Lord Buddha, whereas the Vassa ritual is the Buddhist Lent, which is the period when the Buddhist monks move away into their monasteries and impound themselves during the rainy season that usually lasts for around three months.

Popular festival all over Thailand

It is not the fact that the candle festival takes place only in the province of Ubon Ratchatani; rather it is celebrated in the entire Thailand. The celebration in the Phra Phutthabat district in Saraburi Province and North Eastern Province of Ubon Ratchathani are most popular among the others. It’s also a kind of trademark for the city: If you go in the park in the middle of the town, you will see a large scupture representing the art of making wax candles for these annual celebrations.

The parade of the candle festival

The major highlight of the candle festival is a special parade. Throughout the parade, people carry big candles through the city center and head towards the temple. After reaching the temple, they offer the candles to the monks so that they can use those donations during their ritual period of three months. It is said that those who donate candles to the monks by participating in the parade, they are destined to bring good luck for them.

The huge wax bodies

The participants of the parade also take gigantic wax figures on ornate floats. These huge wax bodies depict different scenes from the Hindu and Buddhist mythology. These massive and detailed candles are not just made up of wax, rather these items are formed of wood or plaster with a wax coating on the body. On the eve of the Asanha Bucha, these immaculate art works of wax are kept in downtown Ubon Ratchathani’s Tung Sri Muang Park. Many visitors assemble to the park on that day to witness the beauty of those decorate wax figures and also to observe the detailed work of the local artists. These huge sized candles will only add to the charm and inspiration of the festival and these are not supposed to burn.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xske1H_0-a8

Entertaining and enlightening

During the evening, at many temples, small possessions take place, however the major parade is conducted early next morning. The major parade of the candle festival is known as Wan Khao Phansa. The parade of this festival is not just a mere walk; rather there are entertaining acts by different musicians and dancers with their traditional costumes on behalf of their relevant institution or temple.

The entire site of the festival is very beautiful and it is definitely not to be missed. The visitors of Thailand during this period, makes a point to witness the enchanting candle festival of Ubon Ratchatani. Visit Thailand and be a part of this celebration.

Video of the 2015 Candle festival and 4th International Wax Sculpture. Candle festival 2015 Uban ratchatani

This post is also available in: French, Thai

Useful Legal Resources for Expats in Thailand

Tai Dom Village in Loei (Thai-Dom)

by
We went to a cultural village, coming back from Chiang Khan.  It is maybe around 20 km from Chiang Khan toward Loei city. I read about it in a book and wanted to see what it was like. At first, we saw almost nothing and thought it was a joke. There was just one house in bamboo, obviously built for tourist. My wife said it remembered her where she grew up in Maha Sarakham (she is from Korat but lived there when very young) about 35 years ago. Cool but I was disappointed.
There are some explanations in Thai and if you are lucky, go in Friday. They have more activities to what we were told. On google maps, put these numbers in the search for the location of thus place. (17.798697,101.73630). However, if you wanna see the real thing, you should go back in the village and look for the weaving factory. From memory, the location about at (17.797099,101.741767) on google maps. There is a shop, a weaving factory and a traditional house transformed in museum. It’s free to visit.
The handicraft are very nice and cheap. We met the people making them and they explained to us a little more. Dom is for “black” the color of the skin. The Tai-Dom were living in Vietnam/Laos. France gave some territory to China and the Tai-Dom moved into Thailand more than a century ago (I read 1905). They built that village, where you can see a lot of their influences in clothes and houses.
These people had their own alphabet…
We bought some handicraft and sincerely, there was much more there if you can avoid the “tourist area” and go into the village. The houses remind me the south of China. If you are near Chiang Khai and love architecture, history and handicraft, this place is a hidden gem in Isaan. More pictures here: https://www.flickr.com/photos/50651722@N03/sets/72157628680083207/ More info here: http://www.tatnews.org/emagazine/5144.asp

Visitor Tips

Located in Nakhon Ratchasima (Korat), this is one of the many dining options available to visitors and expats in the Isaan region of Thailand. When visiting restaurants in Korat, it is customary to order several dishes to share. Most restaurants in this area serve both Thai and international cuisine, and staff often speak some English.

Getting There

Nakhon Ratchasima (Korat) is located approximately 250 km northeast of Bangkok. You can reach Korat by bus from Bangkok’s Mo Chit terminal (about 3.5 hours), by train from Hua Lamphong station, or by minivan from Chatuchak. Tuk-tuks and songthaews (shared trucks) are the most common local transport within the city.

About Isaan Cuisine

The Isaan region of northeastern Thailand has its own distinct culinary tradition, influenced by Lao and Khmer cultures. Signature dishes include som tam (spicy papaya salad), larb (spiced minced meat salad), sticky rice (khao niao), and grilled chicken (gai yang). Food in Isaan tends to be spicier and more sour than central Thai food, using ingredients like padaek (fermented fish sauce) and fresh herbs.

Useful Legal Resources for Expats in Thailand

ลำลำลับแล(ลลลล)

by
ร้านก๋วยเตี๋ยวลำลำลับแล ตั้งอยู่บนถนนมหาวิทยาลัยเทคโนโลยีสุรนารี ประตู 1 พิกัดที่ตั้งจะอยู่เยื้องๆกับโรงเรียนสารสาสน์วิเทศน์ค่ะหาไม่อยาก ถ้ามาจากถนนเส้นปักธงชัยให้มองซ้ายมือร้านจะมีรถจอดเต็มหน้าทุกวันมีป้ายร้านเป็น ลลลล (ลำลำลับแล)บอกตลอดทาง ถ้ามาจากทาง มทส. ให้ขับเลยโรงเรียนสารสาสน์ไปจะมียูเทินร์กลับรถมายังร้านค่ะ ร้านก๋วยเตี๋ยวลำลำลับแลเป็นร้านที่มีสาขาทั่วประเทศ แต่เดิมเป็นร้านก๋วยเตี๋ยวของอำเภอลับแล จังหวัดอุตรดิตถ์ตามชื่อร้านเลย  ร้านจะเปิดให้บริการทุกวันตั้งแต่ 09.00-16.00 น.โทร:088-595 6157   12039422_969227093163109_2520614718115700590_n

เมนูก๋วยเตี๋ยวมีให้เลือกหลากหลายแต่จะมีแต่ต้มยำเป็นหลัก

12032945_969227143163104_4631236105846470803_n

มีบริการอาหารทานเล่นหรือจะเอาไว้กินกับข้าวสวยร้อนๆ เช่น ยำเกี๊ยวกอบ ซุปกระดูกหมู

  11057765_969227153163103_1504386637535751683_n

วิธีการสั่งที่ร้านจะเป็นใบสั่งอาหารที่มีอยู่ประจำทุกโต๊ะโดยใช้วิธีการทำเครื่องหมายตรงเมนูที่เราอยากทานเพียงเท่านี้ก็จะได้เมนูตามที่เราต้องการแล้ว

  12006371_969227009829784_5214926775491557452_n

วันนี้แอดมินเลือกสั่งหมี่เหลืองต้มยำกุ้งแม่น้ำเพิ่มชีสและไข่ลวกด้วยค่ะ ชามนี้ราคา 85 บาทมีกุ้ง 2 ตัวใหญ่ ถือว่าคุ้มค่ะแอดมินไม่ได้ปรุงเพิ่มเลยค่ะเพราะอร่อยอยู่แล้วจะใส่แค่พริกผงเพิ่มอย่างเดียวค่ะเพราะแอดมินเป็นคนกินเผ็ดมาก อ่อลืมบอกไปว่าราคาของเมนูนี้จะไม่เหมือนกันนะค่ะเพราะจะขึ้นอยู่กับราคาของกุ้งในวันนั้นๆค่ะ

12011351_969227186496433_8243398117473675888_n

ร้านอยู่เยื้องๆกับโรงเรียนสารสาสน์วิเทศน์ค่ะ

ข้อมูลเพิ่มเติมที่ : ลำลำลับแล โคราช

Useful Legal Resources for Expats in Thailand

Chateau de Loei

by
Tel: 042-891 970 or 042 891 454. Located at about 20km from Dan Sai, or about 65km from Loei, Chateau de Loei is the biggest vineyard in Thailand with over a thousand Rai of fresh wine-making grapes. On the border of the main road, you will find a shop selling different kinds of souvenirs and local Loei products. The shop is normally opened from 8am to 16:30.Accomodation is available at Phu Rua National Park. Visitors can also enjoy a ride in the vineyard and visit the cellar. If you are interesting for a winery tour, better to reserve by calling them. Just follow the instructions and you will find the cellar and the winery easily. This is inside the winery. Obviously, you can buy their wine at the cellar. A “regular” white wine is about 420 baht per bottle.

This post is also available in: French, Thai

Visitor Tips

Located in Nakhon Ratchasima (Korat), this is one of the many dining options available to visitors and expats in the Isaan region of Thailand. When visiting restaurants in Korat, it is customary to order several dishes to share. Most restaurants in this area serve both Thai and international cuisine, and staff often speak some English.

Getting There

Nakhon Ratchasima (Korat) is located approximately 250 km northeast of Bangkok. You can reach Korat by bus from Bangkok’s Mo Chit terminal (about 3.5 hours), by train from Hua Lamphong station, or by minivan from Chatuchak. Tuk-tuks and songthaews (shared trucks) are the most common local transport within the city.

About Isaan Cuisine

The Isaan region of northeastern Thailand has its own distinct culinary tradition, influenced by Lao and Khmer cultures. Signature dishes include som tam (spicy papaya salad), larb (spiced minced meat salad), sticky rice (khao niao), and grilled chicken (gai yang). Food in Isaan tends to be spicier and more sour than central Thai food, using ingredients like padaek (fermented fish sauce) and fresh herbs.

Useful Legal Resources for Expats in Thailand

Khao Yai national park, Thailand

by

Khao Yai National Park (in Thai เขาใหญ่) is definitely one of the greatest parks in the world. This the most popular and also the oldest reserve of Thailand that covers an area of 2,168 square kilometers. The park has got its name booked in the list of UNESCO World Heritage sites as it is home to one of the major undamaged monsoon forests. The visitor center greets the tourists in a very friendly manner and the staffs mostly speak English, which works wonders for flourishing tourism.  offers breathtaking landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and abundant wildlife. Whether you are a seasoned nature enthusiast or simply looking to connect with the natural world, Khao Yai National Park promises an unforgettable experience.

Pristine Wilderness of Khai Yai National Park, Thailand.

One of the most appealing aspects of Khao Yai National Park is its untouched wilderness. Spanning over 2,100 square kilometers, the park boasts lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and scenic hiking trails. As you explore the park, you will be immersed in its tranquil atmosphere, far away from the noise and pollution of the city.

There are some beautiful waterfalls in the park. The most famous is probably “Haeo Suwat”. Some scene of the movie ‘The Beach’ with Leonardo Di Carprio were shot there. The vegetation, scenery, animals and 50 km of hikking trails make Khao Yai a popular destinations among Thais and tourists.

History

Khao Yai National Park was the first national park of Thailand and it was established on September 18, 1962. Popular conservationists during the 20th century, Boonsong Lekakul, played a key part in the development of this park. It got the recognition as an ASEAN Heritage Park in 1984 and in 2005 it became a part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site.

High resource of animals and birds

Khao Yai National Park is definitely a hot shot tourist attraction. It serves as an ultimate destination to view varied wildlife. You can see barking deer, sambar deer, Malayan sun bears, Asiatic black bears, gaur, tigers, leopards and elephants. In fact, there are some 250 wild elephants that wander along the boundaries of the Khao Yai National Park. Apart from animals, the park gives equally prolific views of diverse species of birds. The park hosts a maximum number of hornbills in Thailand. Different types of hornbills are found here such as the great hornbill, Indian pied hornbill, brown hornbill, and wreathed hornbill. More than 300 species of bird can be found in Khao Yai park. January and March are better for visitors who are willing to experience different activities of the wreathed hornbills.

The biodiversity of Khao Yai National Park is astounding. The park is home to over 300 species of birds, including the rare and elusive great hornbill. As you wander through the forest, you may also encounter various species of primates.Gibbons and macaques are swinging through the trees. Additionally, Khao Yai National Park is known for its thriving populations of elephants, deer, and even tigers.

One of the waterfalls in Khao Yai. From the water flow, this is in rainy season.

If you are there only for a quick visit, the easiest animals to see are the monkeys on road. Some guardians gave them bananas in the afternoon and the deer in some fields.

Big Cats and More

If you have a fascination for big cats, Khao Yai National Park will not disappoint. While spotting a tiger may require some luck and patience, the park is known to harbor a small population of these magnificent predators. However, even if you don’t catch a glimpse of a tiger, Khao Yai National Park is home to other charismatic carnivores such as leopards and Asian black bears. Additionally, the park’s forests are inhabited by an array of smaller mammals, including macaques, langurs, and pangolins.

Entrances

Khao Yai National Park can be accessed by two main entry points. One is in the northern side and the other is in the southern side. The northern entrance can be accessed through the Nakhon Ratchasima Province. The southern entrance can be accessed through the Prachinburi Province. Those who want to visit the park from Bangkok; they can take the southern entrance.

The park remains open from 6am to 9pm. Foreigners normally pay 400 baht 200 for children), and Thais only 40. If you bring a proof of residence in Thailand, like a work permit or a Thai driving license, you might be able to pay the Thai fee.

Deer that you can often see in Khao Yai. That one was 2 meters from me.

Khao Yai National Park plays a crucial role in wildlife conservation in Thailand. The park actively contributes to the preservation of endangered species, conducts research on threatened habitats, and promotes sustainable ecotourism practices. By visiting the park as a wildlife enthusiast, you are not only immersing yourself in nature. You also supporting conservation efforts that ensure the long-term survival of the park’s unique fauna and flora.


Visiting the park is a remarkable experience for both nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. The park’s pristine wilderness, panoramic views, rich biodiversity, and diverse flora offer an opportunity to reconnect with the natural world. Whether you are captivated by birdsong, seek elusive big cats, or simply crave tranquility amidst stunning landscapes, Khao Yai National Park is a true paradise waiting to be explored.

Video in Thai about Khao Yai, starting at the museum, with night safari and more

Our pictures on Flickr about Khao Yai are at:  http://www.flickr.com/photos/50651722@N03/sets/72157633470128087/

This post is also available in: Thai

Useful Legal Resources for Expats in Thailand

Phanom Rung Historical Park

by

Recommended attractions in Buriram

Phanom Rung Historical Park Muang Tam and Prasaat Phoanom Rung are located in Buriram. Prasaat Phanom Rung is one of the most significant Khmer monuments in Thailand. It was built in the 10th-13th century A.D. Phanom Rung was a Hindu Saivite (Shiva) monastery. Sculptures also present images of Vishnu. A processional way leads through Naga bridges to the main sanctuary. Lintels, pediments depict the Hindu Gods Brahma, Shiva and Vishnu , with also scenes of the Ramayana. The most famous lintel (Vishnu Anantasayin) depicts Vishnu reclining on the back of the Naga King Ananta. This lintel disappeared for many years outside the country, but was recently returned. The setting of Phanom Rung is quite scenic, with views of the countryside all around. The site is probably the most visited Khmer monument in Thailand. adress: Chaloem Phra Kiat District, Buri Ram

This post is also available in: French

Visitor Tips

Located in Nakhon Ratchasima (Korat), this is one of the many dining options available to visitors and expats in the Isaan region of Thailand. When visiting restaurants in Korat, it is customary to order several dishes to share. Most restaurants in this area serve both Thai and international cuisine, and staff often speak some English.

Getting There

Nakhon Ratchasima (Korat) is located approximately 250 km northeast of Bangkok. You can reach Korat by bus from Bangkok’s Mo Chit terminal (about 3.5 hours), by train from Hua Lamphong station, or by minivan from Chatuchak. Tuk-tuks and songthaews (shared trucks) are the most common local transport within the city.

About Isaan Cuisine

The Isaan region of northeastern Thailand has its own distinct culinary tradition, influenced by Lao and Khmer cultures. Signature dishes include som tam (spicy papaya salad), larb (spiced minced meat salad), sticky rice (khao niao), and grilled chicken (gai yang). Food in Isaan tends to be spicier and more sour than central Thai food, using ingredients like padaek (fermented fish sauce) and fresh herbs.

Useful Legal Resources for Expats in Thailand

Retro Café and Bar

by
This is a nice little cafe and pretty bar. Coffee is high good quality and inexpensive. They also have nice cakes. The atmosphere is quite nice, with a beautiful retro decor.
They also have wine and beer, to chill and in friendly atmosphere. Open from 10:00am  to 23:30. They also have free Wifi It is located at Yommarat street, near Jim Jeaw Steak.  Yommarat is the street of Ampawa (Ex-Bule Saloon) or Hansa. Phone number:  Contact 085-0979233/086-8603293. More pictures on Flickr: http://www.flickr.com/photos/50651722@N03/sets/72157634335183753/ Credit: http://www.facebook.com/TAPOND69

This post is also available in: Thai

Visitor Tips

Located in Nakhon Ratchasima (Korat), this is one of the many dining options available to visitors and expats in the Isaan region of Thailand. When visiting restaurants in Korat, it is customary to order several dishes to share. Most restaurants in this area serve both Thai and international cuisine, and staff often speak some English.

Getting There

Nakhon Ratchasima (Korat) is located approximately 250 km northeast of Bangkok. You can reach Korat by bus from Bangkok’s Mo Chit terminal (about 3.5 hours), by train from Hua Lamphong station, or by minivan from Chatuchak. Tuk-tuks and songthaews (shared trucks) are the most common local transport within the city.

About Isaan Cuisine

The Isaan region of northeastern Thailand has its own distinct culinary tradition, influenced by Lao and Khmer cultures. Signature dishes include som tam (spicy papaya salad), larb (spiced minced meat salad), sticky rice (khao niao), and grilled chicken (gai yang). Food in Isaan tends to be spicier and more sour than central Thai food, using ingredients like padaek (fermented fish sauce) and fresh herbs.

Useful Legal Resources for Expats in Thailand

ร้าน Chez Andy (เช็คอินดี้)

by
ร้าน เช็คอินดี้เป็นร้านอาหารสวิชตั้งอยู่ใจกลางเมืองโคราช ถนนมนัส ใกล้กับไนน์บาซ่า มีลายจอดรถกว้างขวาง เดินทางสะดวก หาง่าย  บริการอาหาร อาทิเช่น พิซซ่า สเต็ก ฯลฯ เครื่องดื่มต่างประเทศ เช่น เบียร์  ไวน์ Tel: 044-289 556; Fax: 044-289 557  เปิดบริการวันจันทร์- เสาร์ เวลา 11.00-23.00 น.   chez-andy

สเต็กเนื้อสันกับซอส 3 แบบ

andy 3

andy 1

andy 2

  ข้อมูลเพิ่มเติมที่ : http://www.chezandykorat.com/

Useful Legal Resources for Expats in Thailand

เมืองเสมาและเมืองโคราฆปุระ อ.สูงเนิน โคราช

by
เมืองเสมาเป็นโบราณสถานที่ตั้งอยู่ในอำเภอสูงเนินจังหวัดนครราชสีมาระยะทางประมาณ 20 กว่ากิโลเมตรจากตัวเมืองโคราช  มีโบราณสถานที่สำคัญคือ เมืองเสมา และ วัดธรรมจักรเสมาราม เมืองเสมา หรือ เดิมคือ อาณาจักรศรีจานาศะ มีแผนผังเมืองเป็นรูปไข่กว้าง 1,400 เมตร ยาว 2,000 เมตร มีการค้นพบโบราณวัตถุในบริเวณนี้มากมายและพระนอนสมัยทวารวดีที่วัดธรรมจักรเสมาราม ตัวเมืองเป็นเนินดินเป็นแนวยาวคล้ายกำแพง มีน้ำล้อมรอบเมืองและเมืองโคราฆปุระมีโบราณสถานที่สำคัญคือ ปราสาทโนนกู่ , ปราสาทเมืองแขก และปราสาทเมืองเก่า     sema-temple-korat

ปราสาทโนนกู่

IMG_1484

ปราสาทเมืองเก่า

IMG_1492

ปราสาทเมืองเก่า

IMG_1499

เมืองเสมา

IMG_1502

คลองน้ำล้อมรอบเมืองเสมา

      ข้อมูลเพิ่มเติมที่ :http://www.bloggang.com/mainblog.php?id=tuk-tukatkorat&month=26-02-2013&group=40&gblog=77#ixzz3lsoJEl9m

Useful Legal Resources for Expats in Thailand