Amazing Thailand

Only very recently has the world seen a dramatic increase in the numbers of international travelers touring the globe for a different type of tourism objective. One of the most popular types to explode in popularity over the past few years is ‘medical tourism’, and this is where Thailand has really made her mark.

From just over 600,000 foreigners travelling to Thailand for medical treatment in 2002, an estimated 2 million are expected in 2009. This is a phenomenal number which makes medical tourism one of Thailand’s most important sources of foreign income.

It is extremely difficult to pin-point the exact reasons why Thailand has become a haven for those seeking medical treatment abroad, but what is obvious are the defining attractive factors.

First of all are the cost-saving & quality factors. Thailand boasts some of the world’s best health and wellness centers offering only the highest standards of both preventive and curative treatments. All can be had at a fraction of the cost of what one would pay back home in a Western country. Thailand is home to at least 30 hospitals which specialize in treating foreign patients at top international standards.

Amongst these leading hospitals are the internationally renowned Bangkok Hospital Medical Center, Samitivej and Bumrungrad hospitals. These three have been accredited by the most prestigious benchmark for medical treatment in the world, the Joint Commission International (JCI). These fine hospitals are closely followed by many other institutions which have been recognized by the international JCAHO and ISO standards. Then there is the technology aspect, many of Thailand’s top hospitals use only the latest state-of-the-art equipment to enhance their medical facilities and treatment.

Many of Thailand’s doctors have graduated and been trained at some of the most prestigious hospitals in the western world which include John Hopkins Center, Harvard and Mayo Clinic. Besides receiving some of the best treatment available anywhere in the world, patients are also able to enjoy flabbergasting savings. Savings of up to 90%! An example of this is a facelift – over there in the US, the national average cost is just over $5,000 while in Thailand it is under $1,000. In fact, an entire book could be written on cost of treatment comparisons.

In regards to actual treatments in Thailand, the popularity of cosmetic surgery has surged meteorically. Besides the above quoted face-lift, other extremely popular cosmetic procedures are breast and chin implants and ear, eye and nose surgery. Then of course, there is dentistry in Thailand; not just of high standards, the costs are extremely beneficial for the pocket. A simple example is a tooth extraction which costs around $10 in Thailand; that is in comparison to 5-10 times that price in Europe and the US. These are just basic cost-saving examples – the list goes on and on for all different types of medical treatment including cardiac, dental, orthopedic, therapies and check-ups. Away from that, Thailand’s best hospitals are able to offer impeccable spa and wellness service and the highly popular Healthy Living Club.

Thailand’s top hospitals are able to offer patients a wide variety of special packages personally designed to cater to the exact need and budget of every patient. At fantastic prices and standards, patients can enjoy the likes of either a 3-star, standard or royal room with all the moods and cons, while being serviced by multi-lingual staff who can give free consultation, insurance advice and even assist with visas.

Another impeccable factor concerning the top medical institutions in Thailand is the service. A country famed for its smile, patients can be rest-assured that they will receive only the best personalized service possible with outstanding doctor to patient ratios as low as 1:4.

Some of the praise for Thailand’s top hospitals and medical centers on the Internet is quite exceptional. Mr Ren Coppieters from Belgium who had a heart attack in Thailand had this to say about his stay at Samitivej Hospital “The care I received was on a very very high level and never seen before. My special thanks to my cardiologist, ophthalmologist and also due to the wonderful services of the nursing staff (it was because of them) I recovered very quickly”. Plenty more testimonials like this can be found on all the hospitals and centers websites.

With all that said, it can be assured that a trip to Thailand for medical reasons will be one of the most satisfying feelings in your life. Top-notch standards at penny-pinching prices while being able to enjoy Thailand’s world famous hospitality, beauty, culture and food; simply a must-try.

Anyone who has ever been to Thailand will have repeatedly witnessed the reason why the Kingdom has rightly been dubbed the Land of Smiles. A land of warm and friendly folk where visitors will be met with caring beaming smiles the minute they steps off the plane. Many foreigners are perplexed to why a country like Thailand can be so open and hospitable to foreigners and be so delightfully happy to meet and greet and help them.

It is beyond doubt that Thai smiles and hospitality are two of the most resounding aspects of Thailand which attract so many visitors to this sun-filled ancient land. Then, perhaps not quite like back home, Thais’ smiles and hospitality are unmistakably genuine – all coming straight from the heart. So, where do these strikingly positive Thai characteristics originate from?

It is extremely define a ‘Thai person’; Thailand or historically Siam, has over the centuries, been a melting of different peoples, cultures, traditions and languages. Ever since the arrival of the first foreigners to modern Siam, the locals have, regardless to race color or creed, whole-heartedly welcomed friendly visitors from abroad with open-arms; and been accepting of positive foreign ways, ideas and influence. Never having been colonialized, Thailand has kept its own identity while accommodating foreigners to the fullest.

Unlike many other Asian countries, the ‘Thai’ people live as one, whether they be Buddhist, Muslim, Hindu, Sikh, Christian or Confuscist, they live together in harmony and peace and are respectful of each other’s beliefs and cultures. That is one of the beauties of Thailand and the essence of Thai people’s hospitality towards foreigners.

As for the ever-friendly Thai smile, that is obviously one of Thailand’s greatest attributes in promoting people to come to the Kingdom time and time again. Wherever one is, in this lovely land, foreign visitors feel perfectly at home due to the constant smiles they receive from people of all walks of life. This is one heartfelt feature of Thailand which the country doesn’t have to invest a penny to promote. Smiling like hospitality is engrained within Watthanatham (culture) and so, the hearts and souls of Thai people.

One of the most remembered episodes in recent times of just how far the Thais can take their smiles, generosity and warmth was in the aftermath of the horrific Tsunami disaster of 2004. Foreign diplomats and governments heaped immense praise upon Thailand for its huge relief efforts, “I'm amazed. I think without them we would be in a much worse situation than we are," the Swedish ambassador to Thailand said.

Survivors too recount how local Thais, often at their own peril, worked hazardously with their bare hands to help foreign victims escape, while affording well needed comfort and shelter to weary survivors. Ron Bombiger, a tourist from Los Angeles recalled "The local people rescued me, put me in a blanket, fed me and got me to a hospital.”

The whole-hearted Thai smile and hospitality, renowned throughout the world, whether it is in terms of service or humanity, will continue to serve Thailand’s tourism industry enormously while promoting international relations and a remarkably positive image abroad.

In the words of Jim, an American ex-professional athlete, who has written lately on a well-known Thai travel website “I have traveled around 3/4 of the world, and the Thai people are some of the nicest, most polite people I have ever met. I was never treated better in Europe, South America, Central America, or North America. No other country in Asia is even close and I have been to most of them’.

Over on the popular TripAdvisor forums, PeterTravels had this to say lately about the local people “Firstly the beautiful Thai people, the majority are kind, loving, polite and would give you the shirt from there backs. We have made a few Thai friends over the years and we are treated like family when we see them”.

Finally, it is completely obvious that is the wondrous smile and ever-kind hospitality of the Thais that are major key factors in encouraging foreign tourists to come to Thailand again and again and again.

On an international scale, the rise in the popularity of spas over the past decade has been utterly phenomenal, and one country which has had an amazing surge in the amount of ‘spa tourists’ is the Southeast Asian country of Thailand.

So, how come Thailand’s spa scene has rocketed in the last few years? Well, there’s no way of answering that question in one simple sentence. The answer is a mix of essential factors which outline the variety and quality of spa treatment available in Thailand at very reasonable rates.

An ancient country of exuberant culture, Theravada Buddhism, spoiling services and serene ambience means a spa with a difference. The Kingdom’s spas entwine the characters of deep Thai culture as well as harnessing ancient expertise. Many of Thailand’ spas are set in the land’s most exquisite locales in stunning surroundings, offering an impressive range of hand-on rejuvenating treatments. Such a delicate winning combination means an indulgent experience which only a Thai spa can create.

Embodying the best of traditional Thai and foreign medicinal treatments available and the caring touch of local therapists, visitors to Thailand’s spas can restore their health, tune the body and feel totally revitalized. The choice of different exotic spa treatment in Thailand is incredible. Visitors are able to indulge in personalized individual treatment such as: Thai massage, ayurvedic, scrubs, wraps, facials, hydrotherapy, reflexology, acupuncture, yoga and nutrition. In fact, the list is never-ending.

Thailand’s spas are not just quantity, but also a lot of absolutely superior quality offered at extremely reasonable rates. Many of the land’s top spas can be found at lavish five-star hotels/spa resorts, and to give an example of how uppermost some of them are, you can take a look at the Oasis and Regent spas in Chiang Mai and Chiva Som in Hua Hin – all three have won international awards certifying them as being the best in the world.

This awesome standard, and so success, has been due to the tremendous support afforded by the Thai Spa Operators Association which is renowned for enforcing the strictest and highest standards. At a global level, Thailand has secured a top-5 world ranking. In fact, Thailand is the second highest ranked spa destination in the world with an overall grade of 93%+ (just slightly behind Australia); a truly formidable achievement within such a short period of time.

Besides only hotels and spa resorts, spa treatment can be found everywhere in the main tourist destinations, and at all locations – brilliant value for money can be had; all different prices to fit every different budget.

Understanding the current world economical status, the Thai Spa Operators Association has launched its Happy Spring 2009 campaign under which its members can receive irresistible 50% discounts. Operators participating in this campaign include the biggest name in Thai Spa, such as: Banyan Tree, Imperial Spa, Marriot and Pranali. More information can be perused at www.thaispaassociation.com. In addition, countless spa hotels and resorts are offering special spa (and accommodation, etc.) rates under the Thailand Super Deal campaign. The promotions can be accessed through www.thailandsuperdeal.com. The Tourism Authority of Thailand's offices overseas are also promoting these super spa deals through print media and on their website, www.tourismthailand.org.
An example locale of the mega bargains on offer is at Pattaya's Sivara Spa at the Amari Orchid Resort & Tower where the hotel has designed a luxurious one day special specifically targeted at newlyweds, wedding couples.
Thailand’s spas have not just escalated in popularity in regards to international and local patrons, they have also become an Eden for this wishing to learn this ancient craft which has been passed down from generations upon generations. An ideal destination for spa lovers who would like to take their newly acquired skill abroad and perhaps even make it into a new career. Thai spa products have also become synonymous with spa fads around the world, and the market for sales has recently grown ten-fold.
So, if it’s spa treatment you are after, Thai or international, the Land of Smiles is the ultimate destination for service cum cost-effectiveness. Then, on top of that, Thailand affords visitors spa treatment in some of the world’s most gorgeous holiday destinations. Spa treatment in Thailand is definitely not to be missed; an unrivalled indulgence, where 'once is simply never enough'.

The Kingdom of Thailand, a kaleidoscope of different cultures, religions, cuisine and scenery is a magnet to tourists in search of something exotically special. The land is simply a concoction of a seemingly endless variety of wonders; the perfect idyllic place to keep the seeds of a relationship burning bright for time immemorial. Something for every taste and the warmest welcome imaginable.

One specific group of people which has been increasingly attracted to Thailand like a magnet is those who are getting married, having a honeymoon, rekindling former marriage vows or basically enjoying a new love-life. Thailand, as a romantic get-away, is the perfect place to spend time with your loved-one. Couples can feel like a king and queen as they are lavished by Thailand’s superior hotels that do their utmost to spoil guests in luxury.

For those getting married in the Land of Smiles, they can be rest-assured that their marriage will be the most memorable day of their life. If a Buddhist wedding doesn’t suit their religious inclination, a marriage can be organized to fulfill every desire, joined by a Catholic priest, a Muslim imam, a Jewish rabbi or a just a simple civil ceremony. Numerous hotels all over the country can arrange special personalized wedding packages, so that couples won’t have the burden of all that organizational stress which can often spoil enjoying a wedding day to the fullest. In fact, romantic packages can be prepared for honeymooners, newlyweds and those celebrating anniversaries.

Romanticists can indulge in a variety of romantic activities such as: scaling mountains, playing a round of golf, diving to the depths of the ocean, uncovering hidden caves and streaming waterfalls, captaining a luxury chartered yacht, relive ancient glories, feast on the freshest barbequed seafood, witness classical Thai dancing and masked Khon performances or even restore health, tune one’s body and be left in utter bliss by a visit to a serine Thai spa.

Even though, romanticists can be entwined in romance virtually everywhere in the country, the top four destinations which have become the most popular havens for couples are none other than Phuket, Krabi, Ko Samui and Ko Chang.

Connected to the mainland by a road-bridge, the island of Phuket, since its discovery in the mid-1970s, has turned into a legacy of its own earning the rightful nickname “The Pearl of the Andaman”. Phuket is a heavenly abode for romanticists, whether they are sporty, adventurous or simply laid-back. If they are a couple seeking privacy, long-tail or speedboats can be hired to take them to remote or even desert beaches with not a sole in sight; now, nothing can be quiet so romantic as walking hand-in-hand with the love of your life along a silky white sandy beach.

Just south of Phuket, is the enchanting province of Krabi where amorously adventurous couples can experience a vivid assortment of exhilarating marine activities. Krabi’s Ko Lanta and Ko Phi Phi are globally famous for divers wishing to dive amid a technicolor of untouched coral. Besides Lanta and Phi Phi, Ko Boda and Ko Rok are considered two of the world’s most idyllic islands, absolutely picture-on-a-postcard dream island destinations. For couples wanting to get married the adventurous way, they can tie the knot dangling 20 meters above the sea at the annual Cliff Wedding at Railay Beach. Then, in near-by province there is the ever-popular Valentine’s 3-day Underwater Wedding package special where couples receive their marriage certificate blowing kiss bubbles and swimming with hundreds of vibrant fish who come as guests.

On the opposite side of the south in the Gulf of Thailand is the splendid island of Ko Samui (or none to locals as just Ko Mui) which is second in popularity only to Phuket. Ko Samui is able to offer romanticists, besides just the beach and sea a feast of activities which include: elephant trekking, sailing, bird watching, windsurfing and even fishing. Then in the evening, they can wine and dine on the beach under a moonlit sky and feast on what has become synonymous with Samui, the finest seafood. For those just starting their lives together they can learn the culinary art of Thai cooking; gaining expertise on the mouth-watering delights of Thai gastronomy, friends and family will be amazed at their newly acquired skill. Cooking cuisine together has to be one of the best attributes in any loving relationship.

Finally but certainly not last, is the eastern island of Ko Chang which has seen a surge in tourism over the past few years. And no wonder, Ko Chang is another romanticists’ paradise, an island surrounded by delightful coconut groves, transparent shallow waters and innumerous smaller tranquil islands perfect for couples wanting to escape from it all.

With this amazing diversity of stunning locales, impeccable service, amorous activities, exuberant culture and the warmest hospitality, there is absolutely no reason to ponder anywhere else. All in all, Thailand is the ideal holiday destination for romanticists.

The Scandinavian country of the Kingdom of Norway has awarded Thailand “The Best Tourist Destination” for the 6th consecutive year and Thai Airways International has been chosen as “The Best Intercontinental Airlines” for the 5th time.

On 5 January 2009, the Thai Ambassador to Norway, His Excellency Jullapong Nonsrichai, along with representatives of the Tourism Authority of Thailand attended the Grand Travel Awards 2009 ceremony in Oslo to accept the recognitions on behalf of the country’s tourism industry and Thai Airways International.

On receiving the recognitions, H.E Jullapong Nonsrichai expressed his appreciation and indicated that the award is testimony of the confidence that Norwegians have in Thailand. He after went on to stress that the situation in Thailand has returned to normal and the government is determined to ensure that the whole of Thailand continues as usual to whole-heartedly welcome tourists, investors and all friends to the Kingdom.

Organized for the 14th time, the Grand Travel Awards began their search for Best Tourist Destination by electing a travel trade jury who in turn short-list ten countries for the awards. More than 400 members of the airline, travel, hotel and other related industries from all over Norway, are then asked to vote for the country which they believe is best for Norwegian tourists. As a result, Thailand secured more votes than any of the other nine participating countries.

For over 100 years, the Kingdoms of Thailand and Norway have enjoyed close cordial diplomatic relations, friendship, cooperation and mutual respect. Ever since the evolution of tourism to Thailand, the people of Norway have been choosing Thailand as their favored get-away. In sharp contrast to this Western Scandinavia’s country of huge scenic fjords and handsome rugged coastline, Thailand offers Norwegians the opportunity to experience natural beauty of another kind.

Getting away from often sub-zero temperatures and more than chilly wind factors, Norwegians, in droves, have experienced tropical smoothing weather to ensure the blood turns red again. On top of that, the people of Norway have been continually enchanted by Thailand’s historical temples, irresistible cuisine, ancient culture and traditions and evergreen limestone islands surrounded by pearlescent sand.

Travelling from the Land of the Midnight Sun to the Land of Smiles, Norwegian travelers to Thailand have also engaged the renowned world-wide hospitality of the Thai people who have welcomed the people of Norway with open arms.

Norwegians, famed for their undeterred consciousness of environmentally friendly performance have been able to appreciate Thailand’s out-standing environmental policies. Thailand has set-aside 13% of the country’s landmass for environmental protection, consisting of an unprecedented 134 national and marine national parks. Standing at 2,565 meters, Doi Inthanon, as Thailand’s highest mountain, has turned into a Southeast Asian Mecca for wildlife, bird and flora lovers.

Thailand’s love for the environment has been spurred on by King Bhumiphol Adulyadej’s indebted love and care for the environment and his establishment of countless royal projects to protect Thailand’s mother-nature. The people of Norway have also shown their appreciation for His Majesty’s innovative self-sufficiency people to boost Thailand standard of GNH, Gross National Happiness.

Finally, Norwegian travelers to Thailand have been able to delight themselves with a diverse variety of travel activities to suit every taste. Thailand has now become a haven for top-notch medical, spa, golf, shopping and dining tourism. For sure, Thailand hopes that mutual trust, friendship and respect between the two Kingdoms, as well as other friendly foreign states, will continue to blossom indefinitely.