Lonely Planet Sihanoukville

"Sihanoukville" Nick.maynard's photos around Sihanoukville, Cambodia (guesthouses sihanoukville)


lonely planet sihanoukville
lonely planet sihanoukville
lonely planet sihanoukville

Lonely Planet South East Asia

lonely planet south east asia="lonely planet south east asia"

Where is the Best Place to Teach Overseas

Where is the best place to teach overseas? It is hard to decide where to go when you look at the scope of unique and exciting experiences that are available in the different regions around the world. This article is designed to give you information regarding the way your decision about where to teach overseas can affect your lifestyle while you are teaching abroad.


Leisure Activities

Choosing the best place to teach overseas may be tied up in the kinds of things you like to do outside of work. You can continue many of your favorite leisure activities while you teach overseas, or take up new ones. Many international teachers move to regions that allow them to indulge themselves in this way.


If you ski, then Europe and Korea are options you may consider. You can teach in Vienna for example and take a train to the slopes for the weekend.


Divers tend to look for international schools in Thailand or the Philippines. Thailand currently has many more international schools than the Philippines, so you are more likely to find a teaching job there.


Because most international schools are situated in urban or suburban areas, there is usually a wealth of activities you can take part in. While living in Bangkok I have attended Indian musical evenings organized by the Indian Embassy, attended numerous balls, learnt how to ride a horse and taken numerous dancing lessons in many different styles. My colleagues are more adventurous than I, they run in marathons, compete in triathlons, mountain bike, dive, play golf, and the list goes on.


To find out if you will be able to continue your hobbies in different countries you can search on the internet or check out the ‘activities’ section of the relevant Lonely Planet Guide.


Making Friends

At home you probably have many friends outside of work, this can be difficult to achieve when working at an international school, especially if you frequently move around to different schools.


One key ingredient to making friends with local people can be how much effort you are willing to put into overcoming the language barrier. Learning the local language will also help smooth your life in your host country.


To avoid this issue you can choose to work at an international school in a country where the majority of the population speaks English! In many countries in Western Europe, for example, a large proportion of the population speaks English fluently, so the language barrier is practically nonexistent.


To make friends who are expatriates but not teachers you can join groups like the Hash House Harriers (who organize group runs) and national groups like the New Zealand Society.


Domestic Help

Teachers with children that are looking to teach in a country with a lower cost of living than at home will discover that the lower cost of living also carries across into the cost of child care too, particularly in-home child care.


When you teach abroad you can choose to live and work in a country where you will be able to afford a nanny. Many international teachers with children employ nannies, especially in South East Asia where the cost of living is very low, and as a consequence, local salaries are low too.


Even teachers without children can enjoy the benefits of domestic help in countries where domestic helpers are relatively cheap to employ. Nearly all of my colleagues have maids or cleaners who come in and take care of everything from cleaning the apartment to doing the food shopping and collecting dry cleaning.


Finally

There are many different factors to consider when you are deciding where the best place to teach overseas is for you. But the main thing to keep in mind is that while you may have a wish list of where you want to go and what you want to be able to do once you get there - it may not work out the way you planned.


For example, there may be no teaching vacancies in your specialty in the country of your choice in the year in which you are applying. Or, there may be schools very interested in employing you but not in the region you were hoping for.


The key to being happy and fulfilled when you are teaching abroad is flexibility and a commitment to making it work for you. It is not going to be just like home, you will face challenges, and that is the best part of teaching overseas, no matter where you decide to go!

About the Author

For more detailed information about Where is the Best Place to Teach Overseas get Kelly’s Complete Guide to Securing a Job at an International School - now completely revised for 2008!

“Escape the Rat Race - Teach Overseas” available FREE!

South-East Asia Trip


lonely planet south east asia
lonely planet south east asia
lonely planet south east asia

Vietnam Cambodia Laos Tours

vietnam cambodia laos tours="vietnam cambodia laos tours"

Vietnam Today Travel to promote Myanmar Tours

Vietnam Today Travel   is an  international travel agency based in Hanoi has become the first Vietnamese travel firm to open the representative office in Yangon.

The company is the pioneer in offering online travel service, tour packages and customized holiday to Myanmar. With the lanching of http://www.myanmartravel.com , they also start promoting holidays connecting Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos and Myanmar. Their very first target is to provide qualified services for inbound market included: English, French, Spanish and Itilian speaking customers.

Vietnam Today Travel 's mission is to provide our customers with a tour that intimately connects you to the people and culture of Vietnam while providing guides that lead you o­n a true vacation. From the smallest details to the larger picture, Our company seeks to share the Vietnam that Vietnamese people live, day in, and day out, while making you feel like a special guest, in our home.
Tan grow up in a village along the northern coast of Vietnam. As o­ne of the few graduates from his high school to be able to enter college, He moved to Hanoi to pursue his university degrees and eventually his work in the tour industry. He began as a tour guide, for 7 years, learning what visitors value most, and then moved into a tour operator manager position, studying under the best of Vietnam. Finally in 2006 with the supports from some close foreign friends, Tan and his team set up Vietnam Today Travel.

Since 2008, Vietnam Today Travel has launched offices in Siem Riep ( Cambodia), Ho Chi Minh city ( Vietnam) , representative office in America. The 5th office in Yangon enables them to ensure their  service quality in Indochina countries.

 

About the Author

Indochina Expert - living 10 years in Vietnam and Myanmar.

cambodiamountainbiking_part5_0.mp4


vietnam cambodia laos tours
vietnam cambodia laos tours
vietnam cambodia laos tours

Thailand To Laos

thailand to laos_4="thailand to laos"

Just like James Bond 30 or so Years Ago, you too can Enjoy the Beauty of Thailand

Slap in a DVD, sit back, kick your legs up and relax, you've earned your downtime. Just keep an eye out for Thailand, the country may very well be a part of the film you are watching, whether you may know it or not. One such film is James Bond: The Man with the Golden Gun. There are a good number of scenes and references to the Kingdom.  

Perhaphs no film in the 1970's put Thailand on the map more than this film. James Bond (played by Roger Moore) attended a boxing match at Ratchadamnoen Boxing Stadium in Bangkok. The island that houses the solar panels is actually called Koh Tapu, meaning nail island but called James Bond Island through tourist literature and has now become common usage. The hideout of Scaramanga (played by Christopher Lee) is also here. Koh Tapu island is actually part of a pair called Ko Khao Phing Kan which in turn is part of the Ao Phang Nga National Park. The islands are now major draws in the area.

First, let's start in the capital. Ratchadamnoen Boxing Stadium is one of Bangkok's main Muay Thai arenas, the other being Lumpini Boxing Stadium. Ratchadamnoen, some may argue is the most prestigious of the two as champions from that arena are held in higher regard than the latter. Contests are held every Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays, starting at around 6.30pm. Go ahead, knock yourself out. You could very well get ringside seats to the matches.

Phang Nga Bay hosts those beautiful limestone islands in the film. The province faces the Andaman Sea and hosts an impressive collection of islands and islets. Before the filming of the movie in 1974, Koh Tapu was a rarely visited indigenous area. After the movie, it is now one of the most visited. And it is easy to see why. Most of the island is covered with deciduous and evergreen trees. In addition, the waters in the area is home to an abundance of marine life, including 24 species of fish, 14 species of shrimp, 15 species of crabs and 16 species of manta rays and sharks. Bask it all in with our highly acclaimed Camping and Kayaking in Phang Nga Bay tour. If you're looking for beauty and adventure (a fine combination, isn't it?) this is your ticket to a wonderful and unforgettable journey, designed to suit all fitness levels and perfect for friends or families.

Your experience doesn't need to stop at these destinations. See our Thailand tours page for more inspirations.

Exotissimo Travel globally markets a curated collection of tours in Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Indonesia and Japan. Each of our unique tours evoke a sense of belonging and oneness by immersing guests with the culture and experiencing their genuine hospitality. Experts in Asia - in Asia.

www.exotissimo.com/

About the Author

Established in 1993, Exotissimo Travel is a well known Tour Operator in Asia. We have the expertise and connections to create your perfect inspirational tours as well as customized programs in Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Indonesia and Japan at the best possible price. Your experience guarantees stops to the main sites as well as the hidden spots, giving you a true sense of the culture and rewarding you with unforgettable memories.

Laos 0-1 Thailand


thailand to laos
thailand to laos
thailand to laos

Laos Travelling

laos travelling_2="laos travelling"
Do you need to apply for visa's before travelling to Vietnam, Thailand and Laos?

If travelling on a British passport and staying for less than 30 days in each. Do they issue them there without hassles?

You need visas for all of them. However, Thailand issues a visa on arrival - you'll get a form on the plane, fill it in and hand it over when you go through passport control and you'll get an automatic 30 day visa. It doesn't cost anything.

For Vietnam you're best off pre-applying for your visa:

Vietnam is about £38
http://www.vietnamembassy.org.uk/consular.html#instruction

For Laos, you can get visa on arrival which will give you 15 days, but if you pre-apply you will get 30 days. However, there isn't an embassy for Laos in the UK, so you may want to talk to your travel agent on how best to go about this.

laos travelling
laos travelling
laos travelling

Travelling Southeast Asia

travelling southeast asia="travelling southeast asia"

Cruises to Southeast Asia - Take Advantage of Exclusive Deals

Nowadays you can materialize your dreams of visiting breathtaking places around the world with an ease never before seen. For instance, taking a cruise to Southeast Asia could just be the best way to accomplish this goal, making possible to discover several places with a single means of transport.

 

Southeast Asia is possibly the most spectacular region of the vast Asian continent. It is maybe the fusion between the ancient and the modern what amazes more to whoever come to these lands. Here, thousand-year-old relics coexist with ultra modern high-rise buildings.

 

Those who are attracted by culture and history will see their needs totally satisfied by being able to come into contact with vestiges of a glorious past such as stunning palaces, pagodas, and temples. For visitors wanting not only cultural moments, Southeast Asian nightlife will exceed all their expectations. In short, in a cruise to Asia you may experience both the cultural side, and the more fun side.

 

Something great is that it is the perfect moment to venture aboard a cruise ship to these far destinations because of the fantastic deals available now. All of this is really affordable at this moment, and no longer a luxury for only a few privileged persons.

 

Featured cruise lines like royal Caribbean, Princess, Norwegian, Costa, and Carnival will offer you a broad range of entertainment options, making your life sweet even before reaching the destination. These floating resorts boast quality restaurants and buffets where 24 hour access to fresh food is the norm.

 

Plus, in a cruise travel you are always able to enjoy the sun on the decks while drinking a cool fruity cocktail and meeting interesting people. The options are completed with theatres, swimming pools, casinos and nightclubs, where people can dance until the early hours.

 

 

Major spots in a cruise to Southeast Asia:

 

• Tokyo


• Singapore


• Shanghai


• Hong Kong


• Bangkok


• Phuket


• Hanoi


• Taipei


• Kuala Lumpur

About the Author

Find out more

Get Free information on how to find Exclusive Deals on the most popular cruises to Asia

Travelling South East Asia 2009 - Part 1 of 2


travelling southeast asia
travelling southeast asia
travelling southeast asia

Indochina Travel

indochina travel_2="indochina travel"

South East Asia Travel Tip - Health and Medicine Overview

To travel to Indochina area, the first suggestion is to buy yourself a health insurance which policy provides coverage outside your country, very few pay for medical evacuation too. Depending on the medical condition and your location, the medical evacuation can easily cost $10,000, such an insurance will help you a lot if you need medical services while travelling.

There are a few big cities such as Bangkok and HCMC can provide international standard medical care in Indochina area, but most part of this area is not, taking health precautions and vaccinations are prior to your travel plan. The following immunizations are suggested, you may consult your doctor or the local health department to discuss which ones you need:

Diphtheria and tetanus: Combined vaccinations for these two diseases are usually given in childhood and should be boosted every ten years.

Hepatitis A: Vaccination provides immunity for up to ten years and involves an initial injection followed by another six months to one year later.

Typhoid: Vaccination takes the form of an injection or capsules.

Meningococcal Meningitis: This vaccine is only recommended for travellers making extended visits to rural, northern Vietnam. Protection lasts for three years.

Rabies: People making longer trips to remote areas should consider rabies vaccination, which involves three injections over a period of three to four weeks.

Bring your own medicine and prescription drugs in case you cannot get the same ones at local pharmacies in Indochina area. Many of the drugs sold in small pharmacies are copies or have expired. Stick to reputable Pharmacies that are easy to find in main cities around Indochina area.

Remember to drink a lot of non-alcoholic liquids, stick to bottled water and prevent using ice in the drinks in most part of Indochina area. If there is no bottled water, boiled water is acceptable. In Bangkok, Hanoi and HCMC, ice is general fine.

Vegetables should be thoroughly cleaned and preferably cooked. All meats and fish should be well cooked. To be safe, peel your own fruit. Yogurt, if refrigerated, is generally fine but avoid fresh milk and be wary of other non-sealed dairy products, especially home-made ice cream. If you are unsure, avoid it.

Tummy is common disease for travelers. If it occurs, maintain a diet of bland foods of fluids only. If severe, consult a physician.

When you need medical care during your vacation in Indochina area, medical personnel outside big cities normally speak little or no English, so make sure your tour guide is beside you when seeing a doctor. Good communication is the criteria of correct diagnosis. Local hospital and doctors expect immediate payment for health services. Minor illnesses and injuries can be taken care of in most cities in Indochina area. If there are more serious health problems that require medical evacuation, please contact your tour company in the first time. Professional tour operator is experienced for emergency situation. You can visit http://www.indochinaodysseytours.com to get more information about this.

About the Author

Inchina Odyssey Tours - Your trustworthy Indochina Vietnam tour operator since 1987. Personalized and worry-free service in tours, hotels and tickets in Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos and Thailand.

Indochina Travel Video


indochina travel
indochina travel
indochina travel

Getting To Laos

getting to laos_3="getting to laos"
Can my wife visit Laos with me with a 2 year green card and her Laos passport?

Can my wife go to Laos wtih me? She got here in the U.S. July 2007, she got her 2 years Green Card it's good till 2010, but not the permanent one. She still has Laos passport and it's good till 2010.

What steps and what does she need to do, besides buying the air ticket?

So what you're saying is that your wife is a citizen of Laos and a US green card holder, and she wants to go to Laos?

In that case, of course she can go to Laos. Just make sure she takes her green card with her as she will need to show it to the immigration officer when coming back to the US.

And make sure you don't stay out of the US for more than 6 months.

"Getting Old" Vanessaanddan's photos around Vientiane, Lao Peoples Dem Rep (photography)


getting to laos

Singapore To Laos

singapore to laos="singapore to laos"

South East Asia Tour – Visit Singapore and Thailand

Welcome to South East Asia, a well known region in the world tourism map, which is slowly capturing the attentions of tourists from world over, with its enticing attractions and charm. Most of the holiday destinations in this part of the earth are wonderful and provide visitors to enjoy memorable time, which ever part they visit. Among the many tourism destinations that include like Philippines, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Vietnam, Malaysia, etc Thailand and Singapore tops the list in visit of tourists. Every year thousands and hundreds of tourists from all the nook and corner of the world visit this premier holiday places of South East Asia to enjoy delightful time with families, friends and dear ones.

Well to enjoy the beautiful and exciting attractions you have to plan your holidays in an advance as you have complete some documentation work to make the tour delightful and memorable. But if you are planning your Thailand Singapore tours with well known tour operator they will not only provide you great services but at the same time assist you to get the paper work done. This is the starting point that you have work on and after that you have week and more than that to enjoy time making fun and enjoy each and every moments in a delightful way.

You have wonderful opportunity to choose the destination of your choice or visit both of them at the same time on your vacation. Thailand and Singapore are well known for their exciting range of tourism attractions and offer tourists to treasure remarkable experince to relish in forever. Visit to Thailand and explore some exciting tourism destinations that include visit to Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai, Surat Thani, kasbi, etc. Also tourists love and plan for Bangkok Pattaya tours as these destinations are amazingly beautiful and provides wonderful opportunity to see and explore some exciting attractions which are one of its kinds and found nowhere else in the world.

Apart from Thailand Tours you can also visit to Singapore a beautiful country with amazing attractions and pleasing climatic conditions. Here one can visit to some exciting attractions that include Asian Civilization Museum, Escape Theme Park, Jurong Bird Park, Kent Ridge Park, Merlion, Night Safari, Singapore Zoo, Sir Stamford Raffles Statue, Sentosa Island, Singapore Botanical Garden, Parks and Natural Reserves, etc. Beside these you can also enjoy lots of shopping, experince the magic of the throbbing night life, experince the magnificence of the rich culture and traditions, etc. These entire attractions have truly made Singapore and Thailand the most favored holiday destinations that attracts thousands and hundreds of tourists from the entire corner of the world.

Well if you want to see and explore these exciting destinations of South East Asia, you are most welcome. Plan your tour package from the well known tour operator and enjoy your holidays in these beautiful destinations of South East Asia, in a delightful and memorable way.

Visit these wonderful Singapore and Thailand and you will love to come back time and again to enjoy your holidays with families, friends and dear ones.

 

About the Author

Bhaskar writes about various beautiful tours and travel destinations of the world. He is providing valuable information on Malaysia Tour, Kuala lumpur Genting Tours .

2007 Asean Football Championship - Singapore vs Laos


singapore to laos

Laos

laos_9="laos"
How is the weather in Southern Laos in November?

I will be in Southern Laos at the end of November. Has anyone been at this time and if so what was the weather like?

It should be great by then. Warm with sunny skies. The rainy season is over and the heat is still months away.

3rd Thai-Lao ລາວ (ไทย - ลาว) bridge - Friendship games


laos
laos
laos

Thailand To Laos

thailand to laos_2="thailand to laos"

Investment in Thailand

Opportunities Thailand has a well-developed infrastructure and a free-enterprise economy. It has fully recovered from the 1997-1998 Asian Financial Crisis and was one of East Asia's best performers in 2002-2004.

A number of foreign enterprises have discovered that Thailand is an ideal location to establish operations, due to the availability of a cost effective and increasingly well-educated labour force and also raw materials (e.g. precious stones, minerals, natural latex, marine products, agricultural products).

Thailand is also seen as a gateway to the emerging markets of Indochina - Vietnam, Myanmar, Laos and Cambodia.

Foreign Investment Foreign investment has been the driving force behind the rapid economic growth in Thailand. Large foreign investors in Thailand come from Japan, Europe, Singapore, the United States, Taiwan and Hong Kong. Japan is by far the largest foreign investor in Thailand, involving mainly auto parts manufacturing and electronic parts production.

Although the government encourages foreign investment, there are still restrictions in respect of foreign ownership of many activities in accordance with the Foreign Business Controls.

There are a number of incentives available to those enterprises which obtain Board of Investment privileges which are usually granted to manufacturing operations that are deemed to be of benefit to the Thai economy or which are export-orientated.
Banking The Government regulates the Thai banking system through the Bank of Thailand, which sets restrictions in accordance with Thai Government policy.

There are various domestic banks, all of which are listed on the Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET). These domestic banks have extensive networks of full-service branches across the country, and several, particularly the Bangkok Bank, have established overseas branches mainly within the Asia-Pacific Region.

Foreign banks are restricted, although some have been granted permission to open one branch within the Bangkok Metropolitan area (e.g. Hong Kong and Shanghai Banking Corporation (HSBC), Deutsche Bank, Citibank, etc.)

Exchange Control Foreign exchange transactions are conducted through authorized financial institutions and other authorized dealers. Authorized financial institutions are permitted to engage in all types of exchange transactions.

Authorized money exchangers can buy foreign notes and travellers' checks and sell foreign notes to travellers. Authorized money transfer agents can accept foreign currency from abroad and remit foreign currency abroad for prescribed purposes.

Since 19 December 2006, foreign currencies exchanged or sold against the Thai Baht with authorized financial institutions in the amount of USD 20,000 or more is subject to a 30% reserve requirement, whereby authorized financial institutions must withhold 30% of the foreign currency as a reserve, except for transactions that are exempt from the reserve. The reserve will be refunded in full if the Thai Baht funds have remained in Thailand for at least 1 year. Otherwise, two-thirds of the reserve will be refunded.

The following inwards remittances of foreign currency are exempted from the 30% reserve requirement:

Foreign currency remittances for trading of goods and services;  Repatriation of investments from abroad; Investments in equities in the Stock Exchange of Thailand, the Market for Alternative Investment, theFutures Exchange and the Agricultural Futures Exchange of Thailand;Investment in Thai companies, government loans and investment in immovable property;Inwards remittances from Thai embassies, Thai consulates and Thai government agencies locatedabroad;Inwards remittances by foreign embassies and consulates, the specialized agencies of the UnitedNations and international aid organizations in Thailand;Rollover of swap transactions with the same authorized financial  institution;Travellers' checks and foreign banknotes;Inter-bank transfers between authorized financial institutions for their own business;Foreign currency loans or foreign currency for the purchase of debt instruments in accordance with the rules and regulations;Purchase of non-performing loans or the payment of guarantee obligations under order of a Court or a specific authority; andInvestments in debt securities and unit trusts in accordance with the rules and regulations. Any person with foreign currency receipts from abroad may deposit them in a foreign currency account with an authorized financial institution, as follows:

1. Foreign currency account with a future obligation: a depositor must submit evidence of the obligation to pay in foreign currency within 12 months of the date of deposit. The balance of the account must not exceed USD 1 million for individuals and USD 100 million for companies.

2. Foreign currency account without any future obligation: the balance of the account must not exceed USD 100,000 for individuals and USD 5 million for companies.

Any person who is a permanent resident of Thailand can buy, exchange or borrow foreign currency from an authorized financial institution and can deposit it in a foreign currency account with an authorized financial institution, as follows:

1. Foreign currency account with a future obligation: a depositor must submit evidence of the obligation to pay in foreign currency within 12 months of the date of deposit. The balance of the account must not exceed USD 500,000 for individuals and USD 50 million for companies.

2. Foreign currency account without any future obligation: the balance of the account must not exceed USD 50,000 for individuals and USD 200,000 for companies.
Withdrawals from the foreign currency accounts are permitted for the payment of obligations abroad or for converting the foreign currency into Thai Baht with an authorized financial institution.

Board of Investment The Board of Investment (BOI) is the principal government agency responsible for providing incentives to stimulate investment in Thailand and conducts extensive investment promotion activities both in Thailand and abroad.
Investment Policies

The BOI may approve investment projects, which strengthen the industrial and technological capability of Thailand, as follows:

Use of domestic resources; Create employment opportunities; Develop basic and support industries; Earning of foreign exchange; Contribute to the economic growth of regions outside Bangkok; Develop infrastructure; Conserve natural resources; and Reduce environmental problems. Criteria for Project Approval For projects with investment capital (excluding the cost of land and working capital) not exceeding 500 million Baht, the following criteria are used:

The value added is not less than 20% of sales revenue, except projects that manufacture electronic  products and parts or processed agricultural produce, and projects granted special approval by the Board;Ratio of liabilities to registered capital should not exceed 3 to 1 for a newly established project. Expansion projects are considered on a case by case basis.A promoted project shall be required to use modern machinery and production processes. In cases where old machinery will be used, its efficiency must be certified by reliable institutions and must obtain the Board's approval;Adequate environmental protection systems are installed. For projects with investment capital (excluding the cost of land and working capital) over 500 million Baht, a feasibility study of the project, as prescribed by the Board, must be submitted.

Criteria for Foreign Shareholding When considering approval of foreign investment in a wholly foreign-owned project, or foreign equity participation in a joint-venture project to which investment promotion has been granted, the Board utilises the following criteria:
For investment projects in agriculture, animal husbandry, fishery, mineral exploration and mining and service business under list one of Foreign Business Act, Thai nationals must hold shares totaling not less than 51% of the registered capital.For manufacturing projects, in all zones, foreign investors may hold a majority or 100% of shares in promoted projects;For some promoted projects, the Board may fix the shareholding of foreign investors as deemed  appropriate.Investment Promotion Zones

There are 3 Investment Zones based on economic factors, such as the level of income and the availability of infrastructure in each province, as follows:

Zone
Provinces
1
Approved projects located in Bangkok, Nakhon Pathom, Nonthaburi, Pathum Thani, Samut
Prakan, and Samut Sakhon
2
Approved projects located in Ang Thong, Ayutthaya, Chachoengsao, Chonburi, Kanchanaburi,
Nakhon Nayok, Ratchaburi, Samut Songkram, Saraburi, Suphanburi, Phuket, and Rayong
3

Approved projects located in one of the following 58 provinces: Chai Nat, Chaiyaphum,
Chanthaburi, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Chumphon, Kamphang Phet, Khon Kaen, Krabi,
Lamphang, Lamphun, Loei, Lopburi, Mae Hong Son, Mukdahan, Nakhon Ratchasima, Nakhon Sawan, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Nongkhai, Phang Nga, Phattalung, Phetchabun, Petchburi, Phitsanulok, Pichit, Prachin Buri, Prachuab Khirikhan, Ranong, Sakaew, Singburi, Songkhla,Sukhothai, Surat Thani, Tak, Trang, Trat, Udon Thani, Ubon Ratchathani, Uthai Thani,Uttaradit, Amnat Charoen, Buriram, Kalasin, Maha Sarakham, Nakhon Phanom, Nan,
Narathiwat, Nong Bualampu, Pattani, Phayao, Phrae, Roi Et, Sakhon Nakhon, Sathun, Si
Saket, Surin, Yasothon, and Yala.

Investment Incentives A promoted enterprise may be granted certain guarantees, privileges and tax incentives, as follows:

GuaranteesAgainst nationalisation;Against competition from new state enterprises;Against state monopolisation of the sale of products similar to those produced by promoted projects;Against price controls;Permission to export;Against tax-exempt imports by government agencies or state enterprises.PrivilegesTo bring in foreign nationals to undertake investment feasibility studies;To bring in foreign technicians and experts to work on promoted projects;To own land for carrying out promoted activities;To take or remit abroad foreign currency. Tax IncentivesExemption or reductions of import duties on imported machinery;Exemption or reduction of import duties on imported raw materials and components;Exemption of corporate income taxes for 3 to 8 years with permission to carry forward losses and deduct them as expenses for up to 5 years;Exclusion of dividends derived from promoted enterprises from taxable income during the corporate income tax holiday. Additional IncentivesAdditional incentives for enterprises in the special investment promotion zones include: Reduction of corporate income tax by 50% for 5 years after the exemption period;Allowance for double the cost of transportation, electricity and water supply for deduction from taxable income for 10 years after the date of first sales;Deduction from the net profit of 25% of the project's infrastructure installation or construction cost.Eligible Activities The BOI has provided the eligible activities for investment promotion as follows: Agriculture and Agricultural Products; Mining, Ceramics, and Basic Metals; Light Industry; Metal Products, Machinery and Transport Equipment; Electronics Industry and Electrical Appliances; Chemicals, Paper and Plastics; Services and Public Utilities.Industrial Estates Authority of Thailand Thailand has several industrial estates, most of which were established by a government organisation called the Industrial Estates Authority of Thailand or IEAT. Investment incentives available under the Industrial Estate Authority of Thailand Act are permission to own land in an industrial estate, bring in foreign technicians and experts and remit abroad foreign currency.

Moreover, projects located in the Export Processing Zone or EPZ available in some industrial estates may be granted the exemption from import duty and tax on machinery and construction materials for the factory, exemption from import duty and tax on raw materials used in production and exemption from export duty and tax on the re-export of machinery and construction materials, as well as on export of manufactured products and by-products.
Regional Operating Headquarters Thailand also has an investment regime for Regional Operating Headquarters (ROH). An ROH is an entity that provides support services to its affiliated companies located in other countries in the region and acts as an intermediary between the regional affiliated companies and the parent company located elsewhere, e.g. Europe or the United States. In the Thai context, an ROH is a Thai registered company established to perform service functions for affiliated companies and branches in the South East Asia region.

The tax incentives granted to an ROH include:

Corporate income tax concessions; Personal withholding tax concessions; and, Depreciation deduction concessions.Corporate Income Tax Concessions 10% corporate income tax on services income earned from the affiliated companies and branches; 10% corporate income tax on interest income earned from funds borrowed and on-lent to the affiliated companies and branches; 10% corporate income tax on royalty income derived from affiliated companies and branches and  generated from research and development work performed in Thailand; and, 0% corporate income tax on dividends received from domestic and foreign affiliated companies and  branches;0% corporate withholding tax on remittances of dividends paid out of the profits of the ROH to a foreign company or partnership shareholder. Personal Withholding Tax Concessions 0% personal withholding tax on income earned by an expatriate employee of the ROH for services  undertaken outside Thailand, provided the income paid to the employee for such services is not  deducted as an expense by the ROH or an affiliate or branch in Thailand; 15% personal withholding tax on income earned by an expatriate employee from Thai source income for a period of 4 years, provided the employee foregoes claims for withholding tax credits in Thailand.Depreciation Deduction Concessions 25% initial deduction from taxable income for the costs of acquisition and construction of buildings and permanent structures, which the ROH uses for its business operations, with the remainder being  depreciated in accordance with the normal rules.
Conditions An ROH in Thailand must meet the following conditions: It must be a company established under the laws of Thailand; It must have paid up capital of at least 10 million baht as at the end of the accounting period; It must provide services to affiliated companies and branches in at least three countries apart from  Thailand; and, The services rendered to affiliated companies and branches outside Thailand must be at least 50% of  the total income of the ROH (reduced to 33.33% for the first 3 years).Permitted Services The types of permitted services for a Thailand ROH are as follows: General administration, business planning and coordination services; Services in connection with the procurement of raw materials and provision of parts; Research and development; Technical assistance; Marketing and sales promotion; Human resource management and training; Financial advisory services; Economic and investment research and analysis; Credit management and control; and Other supporting activities that may be prescribed by the Director General of Revenue. Rules and Procedures The Revenue Department has issued rules and procedures regarding an ROH. The most significant to note are:

A company wishing to operate as an ROH must submit an application to the Revenue Department and provide all the necessary supporting documentation;Where a company conducts both ROH and non-ROH activities, it must calculate and account for the two businesses separately;Where expenses are common to both ROH and non-ROH activities, they must be apportioned on the basis of the total income of each business;Any loss generated by the ROH business cannot be offset against the income of the non-ROH  business; andCompanies operating both ROH and non-ROH businesses must submit separate corporate income tax returns for each business, but use the same taxpayer identification number.

About the Author

RSM Thailand

http://financial-and-legal-thailand.com/2011/03/30/investment-in-thailand/

Wat Loikroh, Chiang Mai; Thailand


thailand to laos

Cambodia Laos

cambodia laos="cambodia laos"

Meeting Incentive Conference Exhibition To See Growth In Siem Riep Cambodia

Meeting Incentive Conference Exhibition To See Growth in Siem Riep Cambodia

Teeming with history, marvelous architecture and awash in natural beauty, Cambodia is fast becoming a must see destination in South East Asia . The largest religious monument ever built, Angkor Wat ranks at the top destinations in South Est Asia and top of globetrotting VIP business travellers - must see list of wonders in the word.

After a lengthy period of internal strife and civil war curtailed travel to Cambodia for the better part of three decades, the establishment of the peace has spurred a rise in tourism accompanies by a hotel constructions boom in the town of Siem Riep located just fine miles from Angkor Wat.

Cambodia now becomes a wonderful place to celebrate MICE smoothly, reaching both successful business meeting and negotiation and enjoyable holiday business.

Meeting Incentive Conference and Exhibition, MICE for short, is become increasingly important in business context as this model provides elegant facilities with a wide variety of creational activities during the pleasure holiday business.

With its unique incredible and fabulous culture and nature destination's beauty, Cambodia can be a better place to celebrate MICE smoothly, reaching both successful business meeting, and enjoyable business stay.

"Cambodia is for everyone all sizes of MICE. The international standard hotel with modern conference facilities in a world heritage destination, resort and meeting rooms and variety of attraction suiting all taste for nature and culture lovers, golf, relaxation activities, health and spa enthusiasts, cuisine, day trip to marvelous Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom Wat. Nature and culture is waiting to sustain ably serve and satisfy most discerning guests': said Tonny Pham, Mice Department Manager of Luxury Travel.

Luxury Travel Co., Ltd (www.luxurytravelvietnam.com). is a 100% fully registered and privately-owned Vietnamese company.  Lux specializes in planning and organizing incentive trips and have been one of the leading MICE destination companies in the region for over 5 years.

The company's depth of experience and large infrastructure enable it to create unique itineraries with the operational confidence to fulfill client expectations. Among Luxury Travel's clients are ambassadors, French ministers, Deputy Prime Minister of Canada...and others.

Luxury Travel is headquartered in Hanoi and has offices around Vietnam and management offices in Laos and Cambodia. Luxury Travel has won numerous travel awards for excellence.

"Our company is the first travel company in Indochina specializing in incentive holidays. We have first hand knowledge on MICE, and excellent relations with suppliers in Mice industry for whatever event or incentive holiday you want. Name it we make it happen in style." added Tonny.

Luxury Travel has everything you need to organize a successful MICE trip in Vietnam Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar and Thailand.

MICE planers can go to www.luxurytravelvietnam.com for meeting incentive conference and exhibition options.

About the Author

Award Winning Travel Advisors in Asia

TVK_News_2011-03-08_#01_(TVK Today, PM of Laos) Khmer Cambodia.


cambodia laos

Laos Country

laos country="laos country"
Will the USA join China, Cuba, N. Korea, Laos, and Vietnam as a communist country when Obama is elected?

Will liberals finally be in Utopia?

No, you delusional moron. Go read a book, watch some news, get caught up with the world. People left the Middle Ages years ago, why don't you?

Lao Country Music


laos country

Cambodia To Laos

cambodia to laos_4="cambodia to laos"
what to do what to do??!!tours around Cambodia/Laos???

ok-so I'm going to S.E Asia next feb for 6 weeks with my mate. I was wondering if anyone knew of any good tour companies for going around Cambodia or Laos-want to spend maximum of a week in Cambodia, and would rather not have to tour Laos but know it is pretty tricky to get around so might be the best way to see it.Really would like to be in a small group of people in their 20's but if anyone has been on a tour or knows of a good company please do let me know!!! thanks

Best bet is to go to Bangkok. There are many tour companies - some only sos-so - so be careful.
I've attached one such (reputable) company. Gie them your requirements and they'll come up with a price.
http://www.travelconnecxion.com/

Laos Cambodian and Vietnam Military Power


cambodia to laos

Traveling Laos

traveling laos_3="traveling laos"
I'm traveling to Laos any tips?

My fiance and I are going to Laos on holiday any advice or tips? I'm English, she's Polish.

where in the world is Laos?

Travelling Laos


traveling laos

Lonely Planet Angkor Wat

lonely planet angkor wat="lonely planet angkor wat"

Angkor Wat - Reflections on Its Resplendence

Angkor Wat

Travel can be wearing when that much-vaunted heritage tour ‘treasure trove cave’ proves to house one shabby Buddha and a few burnt-out joss sticks. Likewise, even the Giza pyramids can seem hyped when seen in context, squashed up against Cairo’s filth. Disappointment abounds.

Few tourists, however, report feeling let down or jaded when they witness Angkor Wat: the Cambodian temple complex built at Angkor on modern Vietnam's fringes for King Suryavarman II in the early 12th century as his state temple and capital city. Angkor Wat (‘Mountain Temple’) is one of the largest monuments to religion ever built and is a magnet for superlatives. Lonely Planet calls it ‘one of the most inspired and spectacular monuments ever conceived by the human mind’.

The scale of the monument makes it hard to grasp: it features the five towers shown on the Cambodian flag, covered galleries, chambers and courtyards on different levels, all linked by stairways. The whole stands for the cosmic world with the central tower symbolising Mount Meru: the mythical, sacred mountain at the core of the universe.

Nothing about the structure of the world's biggest temple is mundane, not even the moat. Symbolic of the world's seas, the moat makes the one that rings the Tower of London, built at about the same time, resemble a rut. No army ever made it across its gaping expanse. The temple’s restrained monumentality and precise proportions amply justify its status as one of the seven wonders of the world. No words are up to the task of adequately describing its sublime power, unity and style. Language fails, the reader must see Angkor with his own eyes.

Smothered by jungle, Angkor Wat only became known to the west in 1861. Thank the French botanist Henri Mouhot, who ‘discovered’ the architectural marvel while hunting orchids in North West Cambodia’s jungles. Like many who would follow in his footsteps, Mouhot was blown away.

Here we relate the ecstatic reactions of Mouhot, of a medieval monk and of two more recent visitors, all of whom attempt to dig beyond the superlatives and explain what the supreme masterpiece of Khmer architecture means to them.

Henri Mouhot, 19th-century explorer One of these temples — a rival to that of Solomon, and erected by some ancient Michaelangelo — might take an honourable place beside our most beautiful buildings. It is grander than anything left to us by Greece or Rome, and presents a sad contrast to the state of barbarism in which the nation is now plunged. At Angkor, there are ruins of such grandeur that, at the first view, one is filled with profound admiration, and cannot but ask what has become of this powerful race, so civilised, so enlightened, the authors of these gigantic works?

The temple is of such extraordinary construction that it is not possible to describe it with a pen, particularly since it is like no other building in the world. It has towers and decoration and all the refinements which the human genius can conceive of.

Antonio da Magdalena, Portuguese monk who visited in 1586

Michael Di Giovine, author: ‘The Heritage-scape: UNESCO, World Heritage and Tourism’.

I first fell for Angkor in 2002, when I was directing group tours to Cambodia and Vietnam. Cambodia was really just coming into the mass cultural tourism market, and many of my travellers simply did not know what to expect.

They came for many different reasons and had divergent expectations. Yet, like me, all were struck by the sheer vastness of the place, the beauty and exquisite artistry of the monuments, and the uniquely Khmer melding of Hindu and Buddhist depictions.

I remember being particularly struck by an Angkor Wat sunrise where I felt like a spectator to the melding of man and nature. Unlike the sunsets that are greeted rowdily at the Angkor mountain temple Phnom Bakheng, this was a solemn and transcendent occasion, imbuing me with a strong sense of the enormity of life and the sublimity of creation. At 4 am, I recall, the mist hung heavy and wisps of steam rising from Angkor’s moat made the long causeway I was crossing almost imperceptible. Despite the crush of people, most were silent, and I felt as if I were the only person entering the immense temple complex.

I sat in the courtyard just inside the outer wall, gazing like the others at the thick blankness before me, wondering where exactly the telltale pine-coned towers would appear. When daylight finally threw its first streaks of colour across the sky, Angkor emerged – at first a silhouette, an almost two-dimensional rendering of this crowning achievement of humanity – and then gradually became clearer, fuller. When the world awoke in a soft blue-gray wash, so too did my understanding of the power and diversity of mankind and the variety of its symbols, motivations and achievements.

Martin Gray, author: Sacred SitesFor my visit to Angkor, which lasted more than a week, I had decided to arrive before the time of the rising sun. Sitting to the west of the great temple, alongside its wide moat of water, I watched as the sky changed from black to purple to pink. The water mirrored the sky and thus born from the night’s darkness was the most sublime temple of all southeast Asia.

Constructed by the Kings of the Khmer civilisation between 802 and 1220 CE, the temple complex of Angkor is exceeded in size only by that of Bagan in Burma. There are more than 100 stone temples at Angkor, of which Angkor Wat is the largest, and altogether they represent one of humankind's most astonishing architectural achievements.

During the half-millennia of Khmer occupation, the city of Angkor became a pilgrimage destination of importance throughout southeastern Asia. As such a pilgrim I had also come. Wandering about Asia for several years I had explored the temples of both Hinduism and Buddhism. There is a sense of holiness and power to these places that reaches to the very heart of every visitor. Pilgrims speak of miracles of healing and mystic visions, of spiritual insights and enhancement of personal creativity.

I experienced such wonders myself and was also amazed at the magnificent beauty of the site. The temple of Angkor Wat is itself only a part of a vaster complex, which includes such jewels of sacred art as the Bayon, Ta Prohm and Bantai Serai. Take your time when visiting this ancient holy place, let it work its magic on your heart and mind. It is an experience you will never forget.

If visiting Thailand, why not visit one of the country’s currently best three beach destinations:

Koh Lao Liang: http://www.andamanadventures.com/kohlaoliang.shtml

Ao Nang: http://www.andamanadventures.com/ao_nang.shtml

Railay/Tonsai: http://www.andamanadventures.com/railay-tonsai.shtml

About the Author

The author runs Andaman Sky Co., Ltd, specialising in climbing and diving trips to Thailand’s best beach destinations.

A Walk Through Angkor Wat - Cambodia


lonely planet angkor wat
lonely planet angkor wat
lonely planet angkor wat

Cambodja

cambodja="cambodja"
Look, I went to Cambodja 3 weeks ago and I ate dog?

And it tasted good. Everybody does it there it is normal. Now I wonder if a dog had a miserable life in an asylum would it be wrong to get it out to prepare it?

That's digusting. It is normal here to eat cows, but I still think it is gross. No animal should ever be eaten by a human!

Vorwerk - Cambodja


cambodja

Laos Tourism

laos tourism_5="laos tourism"

Laos ~ ASEAN Culture & Tourism Fair 2010


laos tourism

Laos Mekong

laos mekong="laos mekong"

Experience Mekong Delta once in a life time!

 

 The Mekong River runs through China, Myanmmar, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam,is the longest river in the southeastern Asia region. Deep in history and rich in culture, it's one of the last travel frontiers with stunning natural beauty and incredible cultural diversity.

 

The Luxury Travel Company (www.luxurytravelvietnam.com ), Vietnam's leading bespoke travel experience company, is experienced in providing special services and unique tourism products to luxury global travelers over the years.

 

Embark on two days tour of the company, on traditional river barge cruise sampan upstream of the Mekong River allows you to explore Mekong Delta in style . Traditional sampans in Mekong delta are small Asian flat-bottomed boats, propelled by oars or a rear-mounted oar. The sampans used for the new Mekong tours are larger, luxury versions of the smaller traditional vessels. These 22m-long and 4m-wide wooden boats, with two bedrooms and a living room, offer a relaxing way to cruise the waters.

 

Sampans used to be the vehicle of choice for locals on the Mekong Delta, which is filled with wide waterways and meandering rivers and canals. Now the sampan has proved to be suitable for tourists, with many visitors from Europe taking the sampan tours.

 

Pham Ha, Founder and CEO director of Luxury Travel Company, says the tours let visitors see local life on the water and land. The tour lasts two days, and takes visitors through the provinces of Tien Giang, Dong Thap and to Can Tho City.

 

"Visitors can join locals on the banks of the river, feast on local cuisine in lush tropical gardens, visit handicraft villages and travel down the tributaries of the Mekong Delta," says Ha.

 

David Nguyen, a sales manager at Luxury Travel, says the company's sampan tours start at around 10am, setting off on the Tien River in Cai Be Town.

 

Each boat carries a maximum of four tourists along with the crew. The sampan also tows a smaller junk, which is used to penetrate deep into the delta's many narrow canals.

Coconut candy

 

After a bellyful of coconut treats, the boat heads for Cai Be floating market, cruising among local barges that are stocked with fruit and vegetables, before cruising upstream on the Tien River and heading to Vinh Long and Sa Dec.

 

"Sa Dec Town in Dong Thap Province has a long history. The village has changed a lot during the last decade," says David. "House with roofs made from coconut fronds now increasingly have roofs made from sheet metal. But the local people still keep their lifestyle and tradition of hospitality. People are so friendly here that visitors can feel free to stop at any house they like, where hosts often offer tiny cups of rice wine."

 

Dinner is served at an old house of Huynh Thuy Le dating from 1890 in Sa Dec, with the spread of food including dishes made from fresh vegetables and fish caught in the river by local fishermen.

With the sampan anchored nearby, tourists have two hours to walk around and explore the pagodas and houses in the area.

 

Sa Dec is like a small, Asian-style Venice, with numerous narrow canals criss-crossing the land. There's a local market, which is a lively centre of town. The town's narrow streets still have many beautiful French houses and Chinese temples, built in the 19th century.

 

After exploring the town on foot, dinner is served late in the evening at a local house. Then, it's time to get back on board the sampan to cruise down to Can Tho City.

 

At night, the crew anchors the vessel in a peaceful part of the river. A surprise for us is that we can watch the famous movie " l'Amant" or "the Lover", a wonderful and evocative story of love between a Chinese landlord and and a French teenage émigré during n the Indochina war.  I steps from movie to the reality and touch to the past.

 

"As usual, the crew find a wharf where tourists can get an insight into the life of local people," says David Nguyen.

 

Most families in the Mekong Delta make their living by catching fish. "It's not unusual to see entire families living on small boats in the delta," says David.

 

But for those on the sampan tours, there's plenty of room to stretch your legs. The boat's bedrooms, with their timber furnishings, are cosy and romantic. Blankets are provided to keep travellers warm, as the Mekong's breezes can make the night-time quite cool. But with the boat gently rocking on the water, a good night's sleep is almost guaranteed.

 

The second day starts early in the morning. Breakfast is served on board while approaching Cai Rang floating market--the largest in the Mekong Delta.

 

The sampan will cruise through the large cluster of boats selling everything from sand and rice to fruits, vegetable, fish and flowers.

 

"Visitors can bargain with the locals, but they will not overcharge you as most trading here is wholesale," says Pham Ha, CEO of Luxury Travel Ltd.

 

 

The cruise ends around 10am in the morning, when the boat stops at Ninh Kieu Wharf. Tourists will hit the road to have lunch in Can Tho, before cycling around the large town.

 

With their journey almost complete, visitors can make a four-hour car trip to HCM City in the afternoon or stay for the night in Can Tho City.

For details, check www.luxurytravelvietnam.com     .

 

About the Author

Award Winning Tour Operator

Mekong River Bank Rave (Luang Prabang, Laos) [2008 MP4]


laos mekong

Laos Flower

laos flower="laos flower"
Travel Asia. What are the best things to see?

Full Moon Beach Festival, Koh Pha Ghan, Thailand

Chiang Mai Flower Festival, Chiang Mai, Thailand

Phuket Scuba Diving Trip, Phuket, Thailand

Songkran Water Festival, Pattaya Beach, Thailand

Rocket Festival Festival, Vang Vieng Kayak Trip, Laos

Hanoi, Hai Long Bay, Sapa, Vietnam

Sihanoukville Beach, Cambodia

Koh Chang Island, Trat, Thailand

Nha Trang Beach & Boat Trip, Vietnam

Fire & Ball Festival, Vang Vieng Kayak Trip, Laos

Loi Krathong Festival, Koh Lan, Pattaya, Thailand

Christmas To New Years In Pattaya Beach, Thailand

What others are there?

Cambodia TEFL
http://www.cambodiatefl.com

Bali is a beautiful paradise tropical island in the world. Bali is a wonderful place to go! The people is so nice and helpful, and they try to make you feel at home, and there is alot of beautiful places to visit, and the night life, the place to party are so beautiful and interesting! The beaches are clean beautiful and surrounded by hot people the culture is amazing and so diverse that you wont get tired of it......Bali is a wonderful place to live too and is warm and nice all the time.Please listen to me I am sure you are gonna love it. For reference and information take a look this website http://www.bali-travelling.com
Have a nice vacation!

Drinking flower wine during Laos new year 13.04.08


laos flower