One of the newest extreme activities to land on Koh Chang is microlight flying. There’s probably no better way to get a birds’ eye view of Koh Chang and its jungle clad mountains, rushing waterfalls and powder white beaches. Microlights combine a tiny cockpit with a rear propeller attached to wings very much like those designed for a hang glider. To get a close look at these tiny aircraft and book a lesson or flight, visit the Koh Chang Flying Club located near the entrance to Klong Phlu between Klong Prao and Kai Bae beaches. For further information, call Khun Nitit, Tel: +66 (0) 8 9866 1517
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November
Adventure Rafting, Pai
Let’s Play, 11.16.09During and right after the rainy season the Pai River offers some of the most exciting whitewater rafting. You can choose between one- to three-day packages that can cover 60 kilometers of river with as many as 60 rapids, caverns and gorges as well as lush jungle and hot springs only accessible by river. With the one-day trip, you still get to test yourself in the most challenging section of the river that includes 15 rapids, some level 4, as well as a stop at a hot springs. Before setting on, everyone is instructed in proper rafting techniques as well as safety precautions. (Thai Adventure Rafting, 16 Moo 4, Rangsiyanun Rd., Pai, Mae Hong Son 58130 Tel/Fax: +66 (0) 5369 9111)
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November
Kiteboarding Asia – Hua Hin
Let’s Play, 11.16.09The latest X-treme sport to take to the waves, it was inevitable that someone who combine paragliding and windsurfing for an added adrenaline rush. Kiteboarding Asia (43/8 Soi Na Ranong, Petchkasem Rd., Hua Hin, Prachuap Khiri Khan. Tel. +66 (0) 8 1591 4593) has all the equipment you need as well as licensed instructors to teach you how to catch the wind and waves to take off about the rolling swell of this favorite beach side resort. The best time of year for kite boarding is at the end of the winter as the hot season sets in and brings with it strong thermal breezes that can blow till dusk. There is also a good chop and short surf, ideal for taking off.
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November
Pang Oung, Mae Hong Son
Let’s Have Fun, 11.16.09This picturesque alpine lake about 40 kilometers from Mae Hong Son town is part of a reservoir project developed under the patronage of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit. As the valleys were filled with water, the once denuded shores were replanted and now provide very serene groves for couples with sunrays shining providing a soft, golden light. In the evenings, the water acts like a mirror, reflecting the star-studded sky above. There is a selection of lake-front bungalows available for rent from 250 to 500 baht depending on the size of your party.
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November
Flower Route, Mae Hong Son, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai
Let’s Have Fun, 11.16.09The northern provinces of Thailand burst into color as winter descends and the flowers appear. First, in November, the hillsides and valleys of Khun Yam and Mae Sariang in Mae Hong Son transform into shimmering gold as the Bua Tong, a daisy-like flower as big as a sunflower, bloom. After this, the peaks of Chiang Rai to the east burst into pink as the Sakua, Cherry Trees, blossom. To celebrate this natural wonder, there is an annual Sakura Flowers Blooming fair hosted by Doi Mae Salong, Mae Fah Luang at the end of January.
The next Flower Festival of the north is held in Chiang Mai on the first weekend of February. But even if you miss the processions of fragrant floats and exhibits, make sure to visit the Queen Sirikit Botanical Gardens on the slopes of Doi Suthep and Ratchaphreuk Gardens, site of the international Royal Flora 2006 to commemorate the 60th anniversary of H.M King Bhumibol Adulyadej’s accession to the throne. For the best flowering peaking, rent a car or hop a bus to get out of the city and into the mountains, where you follow rushing streams to lush valleys and secluded villages, shimmering in the living colors of native flora.
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November
Boat Tour, Bangkok
Let’s Have Fun, 11.16.09Anyone who visits Bangkok should get out on the river and canals. These have always formed an intricate part of Thai lifestyle and culture, and by taking one of the crafts plying the waterways, you gain a glimpse of how Bangkok has and is evolving. Easiest and most economical is to hop on an Express Boat that travels between southern Bangkok and Nonthaburi. You can get on and off along the way and visit many of the city’s revered and renowned landmarks. It’s also fun to hire a long-tail boat and discover Bangkok Noi and Bangkok Yai canals. Make sure to see the Royal Barges and stop at Wat Arun.
