AIIZ: Long story for L and M

Hello everyone who looking for the story of Chiang Mai from Backpacker House (http://www.siambackpack.com/). It's such a long-long time I have not access to the internet as I back to work for my company before they kick me out off the job. As you know, the world financial is going down (maybe crisis for over the world!!!) Ohmigod! what we gonna do for the coming future ... anyway, don't be panic there is the way for every things, only try:)

Well, get back to the topic.

L : Lanna Wisdom Conservation School

I am talking about 'The willpower of Chatchawarn Thongdeelert of the Lanna Wisdom Conservation School'. Pior to his current roles as the founder of the Lanna Wisdom Conservation School and the director of Social Management College, Chachawarn developed the relevant experiences that lead him to this path of life. During his aducational years at the Faculty of Law, Thammasart University, he was the main activist. He went to a slum to teach children and joined charitable camps in suburban areas during his semester breaks. Since then, he has learnt about the plight and problems of needy people. In 1980, he became a full-time volunteer contributing to social works where most of the time he worked together with monks and villagers. He also learnt religious teachings, languages and culture whilke working for society. Eventually, he shunned the chaos of metropolitan Bangkok city and re-settled his life in serene Chiang Mai on 2 October 1982.

In 1996, when the Thai economy grew 11%, Chiang Mai was being promoted as an industrial province. Nobody cared much about local wisdoms. The majority of people desired to live their lives the ways Japanese, Korean, Singaporean and Americans do, which he felt pity for. He began to realize that culture and local wisdoms are the major issue to care for. However, it was hard to persuadeyoung people to share this interest in conserving their cultures and educate them aboutits significance.

"Conserving culture or local wisdom is not an activity that last only 4 days per year. It should be performed spontaneously." This was said by Phra Buddhajanawaraporn, the abbot of Wat Chedi Luang, who granted 2-rai of land on Rattanakosin road to Chatchawan for building the school.

M: Mankind not only in Chaing Mai but all who concern about culture and the earth!!

God blesses us, mankind, with abundant natural resources which can be utilized without charge, but we have been using these resources without much awareness, and have not recognized their value. Accordingly, social movements to improve this lack of awareness have been initiated and stepped up.

Some people consider local wisdom as an out-of-date or old-fashioned issue. These people do not realize that local wisdom is embedded in our lives. As long as we have to live with dependence on nature, soils and water, forest and other living creatures, local wisdom will always be a part of our lives. The modern world has separated people far from nature and stimulated them to destroy it. We, who used to live in dependence with nature, have become unacquainted with nature and other surrounding people. We live our life surrounded with high competition and struggle for a better opportunity.

To date, more people care about conserving culture and natures and I hope more in the next future.

Have a good day all mankind.

A II Z - When H2K

A II Z Chiang Mai (Continue)

H for Hot Spring:

There are only a few provinces in Thailand that feature natural ho springs, and of course Chiang Mai is one of them. With the convenient location along the Mae Malai-Pai Road, Chiang Mai's hot springs are certainly a popular tourist attraction. Beyond becoming relaxed by bathing in the naturally heated waters, boiling eggs in the hot springs is also an optional activity to enjoy this weekend.

I for International Cuisine:

As we are living in the age of globalization, Chiang Mai features multi-cuisine restaurants as well as numerous places that serve fusion delicacies, varying from economical to the luxurious. (please see AIIZ - G for Global Gastronomy)

J for Jungle:

Approximately 69% of Chiang Mai is made up of productive forests that house a number of wildlife. It's the perfect venue to indulge oneself throughout a holiday, as it includes various activities; from conservative wood trekking to extreme sports.

K for Kap Moo:

Though numerous international eateries offer a range of fine cuisine, Kap Moo (Lanna crispy pork skin) is still the all-time-favorite snack consumed in local households. Normally, there are two kinds -- thick with fat and non-fat.

A II Z - day of F&G

A II Z Chiang Mai (Continue)

F for Flowers:

Situated in high latitude with suitable weather, Chiang Mai possesses the capacity to cultivate various types of plants, especially Western vegetables and flowers. The Flower Festival held on every February is testimony to its success in this field.

G for Global Gastronomy:

What can be better than having a perfect holiday retreat after the extreme exhaustion of a white-collar week? As a renowed weekend destination at both national and international levels, the city of Chiang Mai provides its visitors with a variety of activities to do their days off; from natural to culural sites.

In terms of the art of living, not only is there a huge range of accomodation, from the extravagant to the economical, but also restaurants have emerged all over the city to serve tourists with multi-cuisine. Those that desrve a recommendation are as follows:

For Chianese cuisine, we suggest Jie Tong Heng set a bit past the Saeng Tawan Intersection on Sri Don Chai Road, Meuy Jieng in Chang Klan Plaza next to the Shangri-La Hotel, and Huchalarm Ratchawong inside Chiang Mai Land.

Apart from Bangkok's Fuji and Zen in the airport plaza, Chiang Mai also has some other decent Japanese restaurants such as Sansui on the old Chiang Mai-Sankampang Road, Kitchen Hush on Kaewnawarat Road (Soi 2), and the eateries on Nimmanhaeminda Road.

There are only a few Korean Restaurants in Chiang Mai, and though hard to find, Han Woo Ri is a decent one, set in an all-white house by the Ping River on Chang Klan Road.

For Indian cuisine, try The Royal India, a cozy competitively-priced restaurant located in Soi 2, Ratchavithee Road. But if you prefer an exquisite decor, choices include The Chedi Hotel and Le Spice at the Night Bazaar.

It seems the whole city has gone Italian. Select a main street and you'll find at least one of them But if you want to try the outstanding ones, Giorgio and Casa Antonio on Charoen Prathet Road, Pasta Cafe where the ingredients are imported from Italy, Mr. Chan & Miss Pauline on Huay Kaew Road, and Moonmuang Road's Mad Dog are worth a visit.

Other fine western restaurants include Mike's Burger, Cote Jardin where French, Mediteranean and Spanish dishes are served. German Hofbrauhaus behind Anusarn Market on Loy Kroh Road, French Le Crystal on Paton Road, Mexican El Toro on Loy Kroh Road, and Salsa Kitchen on Ratchavithee Road (Soi 2) which originally manufactured bagels for the other restaurants in town.

To explore the authentic taste of local creations, a number of the fine dishes are served at Baan Kaew Huen Come on Irrigation Canal Road, Tong on Nimmanhaeminda Road, Huen Suntree on Paton Road, and Ruen Come In near Rin Come Intersection.

*** A truly unforgettable experience, you'd better try seasonal vegetables.***

As the rainy season approaches, numerous local vegetables starts blossoming, especially the puffball mushroom aka hed top which is now an agricultural product exported worldwide. To Chiang Mai people, this mushroom is regarded as a rare and expensive ingredient, used in several dishes. One of them includes hed top soup with mamao leaves (Lyonia Ovalifolia), a type of sour local plant widely purchased in the markets. Here's the recipe of this awesome seasonal dish.

A II Z Chiang Mai

Hello girl and boy,

As promised last message from the blog master, DVM. Nida, to give you an information about Chiang mai. She asked me to write all attractive places, activities and things in Chiang mai for you readers. I'm about to encourage you come back to our city 'the Rose of North' again-and-again. Let's see what I have in alphabets...

A for Art and galleries:

Existing for over 700 years with cultural heritage from past generations, the city of Chiang Mai is a fertile land where different forms of art have flourished. Its climate and geographical characteristics are more pleasant compared to other parts of the country, which has lead Chiang Mai to become home to both local and non-local artists.

Travel around the city and you will find that there are more than 20 art galleries, both governmental and private.

B for Birds:

Apart from being a weekend destination for those who love to explore nature, Chiang Mai's extensive forests also house a great number of bird species. So to all bird-watching enthusuasts out there, the forests are definitely the places not to missed, especially those of Doi Inthanon and Doi Suthep.

C for Coffee:

For over 20 years, the north of Thailand has been the major place for coffee bean plantation, which has massively improved the economical status of hill tribal dwellers as well as reducing the opium culivation in the area. As a consequence, there are a countless number of coffee shops all over the city, serving quality cups of local brews and the taste of Chiang Mai.

D for Doi (Mountain):

Directly translated as mountain, Doi is a symbol of Northern Thailand especially Chiang Mai as there are several tourist sites located on Dois; from the renowned Wat Prathat Doi Suthep, which is the official symbol of the province, to Thailand's highest point on Doi Inthanon 2,565 meters above sea level.

E for Ethnic groups:

Racial diversity is one of Chiang Mai's charms. Apart from Chiang Mai people aka kon muang, there are 13 types of tribal people residing in the mountainous area. Each has their own way of life and culture, as witnessed by their clothes, food and household appliances. However, they do have one characteristic in common which is the warm hospitality they have for anyone who comes to visit.

Welcome back to my world

Hello all, my lovely blog reader...

I'm sincere apology for the lost of story for almost 3 month. That's a crisis moment of my life since I decided to quit my job then they gave me a big project to finish, even clear my papers and transfer everything I'hv done... blah-blah-blah!

I used every minute I had and squeezed my last sweat to show them I'm not a loser. Let I just say 'I'm boring living in Bangkok...!?!!' and it's time come back to my hometown 'Chiang Mai'.

Many of you might ask me 'What made you moving out or boring?' Well, I talk about living cost not other reasons. You know, I love living in big, modern city like bangkok and yes, (most) friends of mine are there. I miss them already!! but in the long run I think how much I can earn still cannot pay for living and saving, in contradict if I work in Chiang Mai either to run my familly business or follow my own project 'dog grooming' --"Dog'a bath" (first shop in Bangkok operated with my Vet friend), or even back on the employee track (last choice!!) I still have my life style as usaul and able to build up more for my future that's because goods and services price in Chiang mai are cheaper than bangkok.

I hope my little information above could bring you around to travel in Chiang Mai more :P

See you around and Take care

I will come back to get you more closure to Chaing Mai with the A-Z Chiang Mai.

Loyal Anniversary "Chakri"

The Meaning of Chakri Day

April 6 marks the anniversary of the founding of the present Chakri Dynasty of which the present ruling monarch, King Bhumibol the Great, is the ninth king.

The Chakri Dynasty was founded by Phra Buddha Yodfa Chulaloke, or Rama I, who was born on March 20, 1737 with the name of Thong Duang and came to the throne on April 6, 1782. He ruled the country for 28years. During his reign he consolidated the kingdom in such a way that here was no further fear of invasion from enemies. King Rama I has been praised as an accomplished statesman, a lawmaker, a poet and a devout Buddhist. Thus, his reign has been called a "reconstruction" of the Thai state and Thai culture. He was the monarch who established Bangkok as the capital of Thailand, and this is the most long-lasting creation which gains popularity as the "City of Angels". King Rama I passed away on September 7, 1809 at the age of 72.

King Rama I's son, Phra Buddha Loetla Naphalai, or Rama II, then acceded to the throne. It was during his reign that a renaissance of Thai arts and culture came about, especially in literature. The King himself was a man gifted with artistic talent. Phra Nang Klao came next. He fortified the country with a strong defence force and commissioned many buildings. It was during his reign that Thai arts reached the highest peak since Ayutthaya period. It is said that the reigns of King Rama II and III constituted a Golden Age of Literature and Arts, similar to King Narai's in Ayutthaya. King Rama III or Phra Nang Klao was succeeded by King Mongkut (Rama IV) who was a bold religious leader. He started the commercial contacts with foreign countries and was responsible for the introduction of western science and modernization into Thailand. Then came King Chulalongkorn, the benevolent monarch. During his reign of 42 years, many changes and reforms were made in Thailand. Slavery was abolished, modern system of administration was introduced, efficient law courts were established, education was systematically spread, and he financial system was revised.

King Vajiravudh, who succeeded King Chulalongkorn, further consolidated and developed what had been accomplished in the previous 40 years. He contributed much to the national language and literature so much so that he was sometimes called the poet who was a king. The outstanding achievement of his reign is perhaps a number of new treaties concluded between Thailand and other powers as it helped enhancing the prestige of Thailand. The King also introduced the use of tricolor flag to replace the old red flag with the white elephant.

King Vajiravudh passed away on November 26, 1925 and was succeeded by his younger brother King Prachadhipok, the seventh king of Chakri Dynasty who reigned as the last absolute monarch. On June 24, 1932 a revolution took place and His Majesty accepted the proposal of a constitutional regime. On March 2, 1934 the King abdicated and later died in exile, leaving the throne to his nephew, King Ananda Mahidol, who after 11 years rule met a sudden death leaving the throne to his younger brother, King Bhumibol Aulyadej, the present monarch.

On Chakri Day, His Majesty King Bhumibol accompanied by members of royal family presides over a religious ceremony performed to give merit to the deceased rulers at the Royal Chapel, then pays respects to His Majesty's Predecessors at the Royal Pantheon and lays a wreath at the statue of King Rama I at the Memorial Bridge. On this occasion, the Prime Minister, Ministers, high ranking officers, students, public and private organizations and people from all walks of life take part in a wreathlaying ceremony and make merit for the great kings who dedicated the best part of their lives for the betterment of their subjects.

Source: Thanapol Chadchaidee. (1994). Essays on Thailand. Bangkok : Thaichareunkanpem

AstroSpeak 2008 (Cont...)

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Virgo (August 24 - September 23)

Many new possibilities will come within your reach in 2008 and your ambitions will grow and bear fruit fast. Tapping new opportunities will call for strategic manoeuvring at work, and that includes maintaining the right equations with key people. Be persistent about requests or enquiries. Discuss new projects or enterprises with and strong points will make all the difference. Keeping yourself abreast of current developments will help you to review your own options better.

In money matters, a year to go ahead with schemes, especially those related to the stock market.

In love, your rapport will be good.

Libra (September 24 - October 23)

Success will be yours more frequently in 2008. You'll work with a new zeal, armed with determination to attain goals. You'll have a clear-cut set of priorities and take up new challenges. Don't postpone action on sensitive matters. Keep taking a fresh look at the manner in which you're managing your resources. Stay abreast of tasks and flesh out strategies and proposals. Coming up with quick responses will add to your gains. You'll be able to find time to soak in the latest information. Most of you will be able to consolidate your position of power.

In money matters, planning will be necessary, especially if new investments are involved.

In love, being more adventurous will appeal to you.

Scorpio (October 24 - November 22)

Review current approaches and move on with new plans in 2008. A prestigious responsibilitiy is also on the cards. But ensure that you get the attendant facilities to carry out tasks. If you're anticipating some competitive situations, it would be a good idea to keep yourself updated. Knowing the right people and staying tuned to the grapevine will be important. Make some bold adjustments to the approach you have been following and the results can exceed what you've envisaged. Don't hesitate to re-introduce old techniques which have worked for you. With a new stategy, these will give you good results.

In money matters, put your best foot forward, even if it means taking risk.

In love, at least one secret desire will be fulfilled.

Have a good and smooth through the year 2008 (The year of Rat)