Top Flight Destinations During the Credit Crunch

The global economic crisis is having an interesting affect on the plans of holidaymakers. According to skyscanner.com, most of us are eager to book flights to destinations that are value-for-money and warm, but this is not always the case - and the new top 10 of flight destinations with the most interest in 2009 is surprisingly full of long-haul and diverse places. Let's have a look at the four most interesting.

Thailand:
The maintaining strength of sterling against the Thai Bhat, coupled with the nation's eagerness to entice visitors back in the wake of recent unrest and the 2004 Tsunami, is making Thailand one of the most popular destinations booked this year. The resort Island of Phuket is abundant with tourist facilities and golden beaches, whilst the capital city, Bangkok, is a city enriched with historical sites and an impressive nightlife. Further North is the culturally significant city of Chiang Mai, which features many incredible religious sites including Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep.

Chiang Mai

St Lucia:
This tiny Island is located in the Eastern Caribbean, and has long relied on tourism to fuel its economy. In 2009, sterling is still comparatively strong compared to the Eastern Caribbean Dollar and so the destination's popularity has grown again this year. The island boasts hot tropical weather and a great many beaches. The island is volcanic, and is unique in that it even includes a drive-through volcano which serves as one of the islands most popular attractions. The capital, Castries, is built on reclaimed land in the North East.

Top Flight Destinations During the Credit Crunch

Switzerland:
Not all of the new popular destinations are to warm exotic places however. Skiing destinations, such as Switzerland are also increasing in interest. The country has long been popular with British tourists who came to climb the mountains in the 19th Century. Since then, the country has established many skiing resorts such as Zermatt and Engleberg which are renowned for their quality and diversity.

Brazil:
According to skyscanner, the Brazilian real has moved to seventh most popular currency bought by holidaymakers, an increase of 85 percent. The coastal city of Rio de Janeiro is is one of the most popular cities for tourists, with such sights as Sugar Loaf Mountain and the Christ The Redeemer statue. The country has a rich cultural history, as displayed in music, cinema, art, and festivals such as Carnival. Sao Paulo is noted for being one of the most populous cities in the world, and the richest city ion the country.

Top Flight Destinations During the Credit Crunch

Conquer Northern Thailand's Most Remote and Challenging Trekking Routes - The Old Elephant Trail

Northern Thailand is an adventurer's paradise! Rugged mountains, dense jungles, meandering rivers and makes a trek up here intriguing! So, what's keeping you from hiking up and down Northern Thailand? Join us for a scenic adventure that'll surely impress even the most seasoned outdoorsmen and women. The trail here are quite challenging, so if you are looking to test your endurance and character (while also absorbing the scenery), our Old Elephant Trail Trek is the adventure tour for you.

The Old Elephant Trail was once a very busy trade route over the mountains between Mae Hong Son and Chiang Mai. It was established around 1831 but was abandoned when roads were built in the 1950s and is now one of the more remote trekking routes in Northern Thailand.

Chiang Mai

Welcome to Chiang Mai, the headquarters to everything Northern Thailand. Meet your guide here and head over to Hmong Village of Khun Mae Talaa, the starting point of your trek. Hike across ridge tops and through villages and awe-striking scenery before setting up camp within the grounds of a local school in a Blue Hmong Village.

Conquer Northern Thailand's Most Remote and Challenging Trekking Routes - The Old Elephant Trail

Gear up for another day of trekking! The second leg takes you to a Karen village situated in a conifer forest. Have lunch with them and share your adventures. They are also more than happy to reveal their way of life to you. Continue this afternoon to Wat Chan, a small town located in the middle of the Old Elephant Trail where an overnight stay in a hotel awaits.

Your third day is an interesting trekking day. You'll first hike along flat, easy to walk roads until you come across mountainous terrain, rice fields and green jungles. Make sure to admire the view from up there. It serves as great reward for your efforts. Late this afternoon reach Huai Pu Loei where camp is set up at the local school grounds and dinner is served in the tranquil surroundings.

Wake up, early bird! The sunrise over Huai Pu Loei valley is a sight not to be missed! Plus, a long and most difficult hiking day is ahead of you. Today's trail is mostly uphill. If you're looking for a challenge, then this is it! Work your way up and conquer Doi Yao Peak. And treat yourself with a one of a kind panoramic view of Northern Thailand's beautiful terrain.

More trekking! This time, we have caves, streams and waterfalls to reward your efforts. It's always nice to cool off in these natural wonders after a long and hardworking trek.

We're not going easy on you just because it is your final day. Oh, no! This last day of hiking starts with an early morning climb up to Saam Fah mountain ridge for sweeping views across the valley to the Myanmar border. Bask in the scenery and raise your arms in the air celebrating your six day triumph! Head down to the entrance of Mae Surin National Park where vehicles are waiting to escort you to your hotel.

Conquer Northern Thailand's Most Remote and Challenging Trekking Routes - The Old Elephant Trail

Chiang Dao Flowers of Thailand

Chaing dao is at the northern end of Thailand. It is in fact only a short drive from Chiang Mai. The name Chiang Dao translates literally to "City of Stars". Famous for so many tourist related things such as its caves, hiking, rafting and even elephant centres, many come to Chaing Dao for the flowers.

The Chaing Dao flowers of Thailand can be described as nothing short of exquisite. It is a largely agricultural town and the locals are a very hard working mix of people who rise as early as 3.00am and are well and truly in bed at night by 8.00pm For Thailand standards, this is not a party town in the least!

Chiang Mai

Many groups of enthusiasts have come to the Chiang Dao area in search of the famous parrot flower. A species of the Impatiens Psittacina, the rare parrot bird flower has captured not only many hearts, but many urban myths and legends also.

Chiang Dao Flowers of Thailand

There are entire websites devoted to the accuracy of this plant being real or not. Thought to only grow on the Chaing Dao mountain top, it is by all accounts and otherwise unsightly plant. The flower is truly beautiful, and the name for this plant truly is representative of the flower. Many have offered thousands of dollars for the seeds to this rare parrot flower and yet no one seems to be able to get them.

Known for some of the most breathtaking views, many flower enthusiasts have fallen in love with the region and have returned year after year hoping to sight the flowering Impatiens Psittacina. One of the biggest draw cards to the area is that it is not as popular as many other areas of Thailand and therefore you are able to witness nature in all her glory without the trampling tourists. The most striking feature to the area is Doi Chiang Dao, Thailand's third highest mountain which is a popular hiking and bird watching destination

Chiang Dao Flowers of Thailand

About the Promenada Chiang Mai Mall

A third Chiang Mai Mall is planned to open in 2012 but will not be anything similar to the other existing malls. A team of property developers, designers and landscape artists has created one of the most unique and exciting resort malls in the world. The concept is unique; design an open-air environment where shopping, entertainment and dining are provided. Top it off with an anchor grocery super store and you have a great arena for area residents and tourists alike.

The Architecture

Chiang Mai

Merging an indoor facility with nature was challenging but the designers on this project were driven to make it happen. The open outdoor space flows naturally into an interior filled with waterfalls, trees and natural beauty. Separated with wide glass windows and skylights, the cultural décor represents a rich and earthy tone while highlighting the fantastic tropical value. Without the confines of straight, bleak walls, the open concept of sharing space with nature abounds in every corner.

About the Promenada Chiang Mai Mall

What you will find

People of all ages will be benefit from the features of this new Chiang Mai mall. Children can play and learn in the kids centre, watch movies at the cinema or bowl with friends at the 20-lane Strike Bowl. Karaoke and a Skate Park will intrigue teens and the open-air theatre always has shows. The finest cuisine can be found for dining and the huge, wide-open spaces allow you to relax or visit with friends under the bright tropical skies. Shopping is an experience never before seen by residents with selections that were unavailable until now. Designer clothes, the latest in worldly fashions and accessories are turning Thailand into a paradise of modernization.

Chiang Mai Mall Layout

Three levels extend over 91,951 m2 and are organized into zones where interests are divided into their own specific section. The ground floor offers edutainment, food and drinks, home decoration, convenience and services and beauty and health areas. The first floor is filled with sports products, a gourmet market, fashion clothes, shoes and beauty products. On the top level you will find entertainment and multimedia, books and banking services. The Chiang Mai Mall is designed to make your visit uncomplicated while presenting an overall positive appeal.

The Promenada Chiang Mai Mall is directly located off of the 6-lane main road that links the 2nd Ring Road to the Super Highway. Two entrances with close U-turn availability make getting in and out of the Chiang Mai Mall smooth and convenient. Parking is never a problem with over 1200 slots for your vehicle. Set in an area that supports both residential and commercial interests, the grounds bring out the best in both. The team that put together this beautiful complex that seems a tropical aesthetic city of its own has hit on all facets of visitors. With Thailand becoming a booming country and the potential for even more growth, the intricate space and layout of the Chiang Mai Mall will easily accept growing needs in the future.

About the Promenada Chiang Mai Mall

5 Places to Go Travel for the Party of Your Life

1. Ibiza Closing Parties, Spain

Ibiza celebrates the culmination of its nightlife season every September by throwing huge parties in a week that has been referred to as "the most hedonistic week of the year". Party every single night at any of their numerous clubs, and you do not have to worry as the club opening days are staggered so you will not have to miss out on one party for another. Dance and socialize the night away; it is sure to be a week to remember.

Chiang Mai

2. Oktoberfest, Germany

5 Places to Go Travel for the Party of Your Life

Definitely a party for those who love their beer! This is the world's largest beer festival held in Munich, Germany, and usually takes place between September and October. Numerous beer tents are erected, each with different themes and personalities. Choose one of your preference and head in for all-you-can-drink beer! Although admission is free, no one is allowed to go in once tents are full, which happens quickly so be sure to head over there in the morning.

3. Carnaval, Brazil

This is one of the world's biggest street parties and it takes place in Salvador, Brazil, in February each year. The party consists of numerous music bands, dancers and thousands of partying locals and foreigners, all equally determined to have a good time. Be sure to try the Cachaça, the local brew that will really get you into the party mood.

4. Las Fallas, Spain

In honour of St Josephs Day, locals in Valencia, Spain, burn huge papier-mâché sculptures amidst a roaring street party fuelled further by Sangría, the tasty local brew. Be sure to purchase your own sculpture - sculptures depicting local and international politicians are usually available for sale - and have fun torching them while partying the night away with friendly locals and fellow travelers all having a rocking good time.

5. Songkran Festival, Thailand

Celebrate the Thai New Year in Chiang Mai, Thailand, with a big splash. This is a party with a difference, as Thais usher in the New Year by having a huge festival where your sole aim is to drench everyone around you with water and have a thoroughly good time while doing it. Whether with water guns, buckets, water balloons or bottles, you too can join the fun. The festival-like atmosphere and water concept makes for a fantastic party experience, enhanced of course, by the abundance of the local whiskey. This festival takes place in April.

5 Places to Go Travel for the Party of Your Life

Things to See in Thailand

Thailand has long been a popular tourist destination. Cheap, navigable, family friendly, and with a range of activities, it is easy to see why it is so popular. With the world economy shrinking, Thailand has become an even better choice to visit. Hotel prices have been cut and flights have become cheaper. If that wasn't enough of a reason, here are some others:

Thailand has some of the best beaches in the world. Whether you want empty beaches or lush resorts, Thailand has an island for you. You can choose between Phuket, a popular family destination, Ko Phang Nagn, a popular destination with backpackers, or Ko Lipe, an out of the way destination in the south of Thailand. No matter where you go, you will find wide white sand beaches, crystal clear diving, cheap accommodation, amazing seafood, and great diving.

Chiang Mai

If beaches and diving aren't interesting to you, Thailand a a variety of other activities for you. There are many historical sites such as Sukkotthai, Lopburi, and Ayutthaya There you can see the old capitals of the Thai Empire. and some stunning Khmer influence architecture.

Things to See in Thailand

Keep heading north for lush jungles, hill tribes, and river rafting expeditions. Up north in Chiang Mai you will also find some of the best shopping in all of Thailand at the Chiang Mai night market. Chiang Mai also boasts some amazing temples and is one of the centers of Buddhism in the country. If you head a little further north to Chiang Rai, you can use this city as a base to explore the wild and undeveloped north.

However, the best part of Thailand is its beaches and any trip to the country requires spending a lot of time at one of its many islands. With so many islands, there is bound to be one that suits your travel style. The lesser known and touristed islands such as Ko Lipe, offer travelers cheaper accommodation, more authentic interaction with the locals, better diving, and less crowds to share the beaches with. Most people come here for the sun and there is good reason to. Whatever your reason to come here, you will have a great time with so many available choices.

Things to See in Thailand

Baby Elephant Eats Lunch

Baby Elephant Eats Lunch Video Clips. Duration : 2.75 Mins.

A baby elephant came and started eating our lunch. www.rockbangkok.com

Tags: Elephant, Baby, Lunch, Thailand, Food, Dinner, Chiang, Mai