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.

AstroSpeak 2008 (Cont...)

Previous: Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius, Pisces, Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer and Leo

Continue...

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)

AstroSpeak 2008 (Cont..)

Previous: Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius, Pisces and Aries

Continue...

Taurus (April 21 - May 21)

Three defining elements will be shaping your destiny in 2008. Favourable currents will keep your affairs moving, often unknown to you. Your inputs and efforts will carve a prestigious niche for you. And last, the manner in which you're able to meet the demands of situations will assure you of new offers. Mid-year, there'll be opportunities to be in the limelight and fulfill many of your desires. Some old contacts will help you developing new linkages. You'll have to make additional efforts to eliminate factors which retard progress. As a result, you will come up with a range of ideas, suggestions and solutions.

In money matters, you'll be able to strengthen your position. You'll be able to increase your income by tapping new opportunities.

Your love-life, too, will give you reason to feel fairly contented.

Gemini (May 22 - June 21)

Fate will be favourably inclined towards you in 2008 and ready to present you with opportunities. Your success will depend on two factors. First, the strength and extent of your preparations. In highly competitive situations, the quality of your preparations could tilt things your way. Second, your foresight in applying skills to tap new areas or a new medium will count considerably. Doubts about the success you can achieve will be reduced if you discuss your plans with an experienced person. Despite issues which crop up suddenly, you'll manage to do several things. However, you'll be all too conscious that you have to pull your weight more than before.

Remember that phone calls, mails and messages will be important. Make sure you keep both your short-term and long-term interests in mind.

In money matters, an ideal year to take a more in-depth look at plans for the long term, besides formulating a more market-oriented approach for the short term.

Cancer (June 22 - July 23)

The opportunities, new options and new roles laid out for you in 2008 will be more challenging than you had expected. But this will bring out the best in you. Bost business and creative pursuits will be under favourable influences. Even through there'll be deadlines to meet, you won't be under pressure. You'll get an opportunity to display your range of ideas and skills to better effect than before. But try and keep personal considerations away from professional decisions. Also, try not to link your achievements or satisfaction to responses from other people. Monitor what your competitors are doing, as this could necessitate some amendments.

In money matters, real estate or dealings which involve quotations will be partcularly favourable.

In love, a desire to spend more time with each other will grow.

Leo (July 24 - August 23)

The new year will see you utilising your strengths to the maximum. New dreams and hopes will provide many of you with the incentive to develop your capabilities. Keep yourself in constant touch with what is happening in the background and in fields or organisations parallel to yours. People are likely to look up to you for advice more frequently. But do space your activities, otherwise you'll put yourself under undue pressure. Safeguarding the progress you'hv registered is important.

In money matters, improvements will become visible. New ventures will click and new invesments will pay off.

In love, your levels of sharing and caring will increase.

Next: Virgo, Libra and Scorpio

AstroSpeak 2008

Previous: Sagittarius and Capricorn

Continue...

Aquarius (January 20-February 18)

You'll be able to inspire yourself to move in new directions in 2008. You'll realise that you need to tread warily to notch up lasting, long-time gains. However, unforeseen delays will prove to be a blessing in disguise. You'll feel the need to see results in terms of growth instead of mere praise from seniors. Many of you may find that you have been recommended for something prestigious. Being on the look out and identifying slow-moving areas or snags will yeild divideds. New responsibilities will strengthen your position, but move carefully initially. You'll demonstrate that you're capable of handling complexities, competitive demands and challenges.

In money matters, ensure that you don't miss out on oppurtunities to augment your resources.

In love, new desires will lead to new commitments.

Pisces (February 19-March 20)

Throughout 2008, armed with ideas that will click, you'll be pushing towards desired outcomes rather than accepting routine progress. You must sort out issues the moment they crop up. You'll need to be more open to new ideas because, firstly, it's more than likely that you'll unexpectedly find themes and issues which have the kind of dimensions that would provide you with scope to use your talent better. Secondly, while people are likely to be more receptive, you may have to rethink your stand on a couple of issues. Use changes as oppurtunities for growth or else you could lose out. Your stock will rise substantially in the right places.

In money matters, a good year with satisfying returns.

In love, reviewing your emotional attachment from time to time will result in more sharing and greater fulfilment.

Aries (March 21-April 19)

In 2008, you'll enjoy making use of a combination of old and new knowledge to obtain some striking results. Mid-year will see many of you making a shift, either in your approach or your place of work. Planning afresh will become a necessity. The sooner you get started on clearing things on your mind, the better. New factors are likely to speed up things at various levels. Be careful that you're not too rigid and refuse to deviate from a course which isn't going down too well with someone else. Although you won't mind working as a team, you'll be more at ease working at an individualistic level. However, keep tabs on how your initiatives are being noticed be people who count.

In money matters, 2008 will be more profitable than the previous year.

In love, despite some irritations, unexpected fulfilment will be yours.

Next: Taurus, Gemini, Cancer and Leo

Happy New Year 2008 (AstroSpeak)

Seasons Greetings!

On behalf of the Backpacker team, I wanted to send you our best wishes for the New Year, hoping 2008 will be full of happiness, perfectly health and success - a big thank you for those of you who have been supporting us the whole way through and we certainly look forward to an even better year at http://www.siambackpack.com/! We will be launching many new facilities soon:)

Enjoy the festive season and again, best wishes for the New Year!! :)

Before the first month pass, let's see what might be happened in your life in the year 2008 (Indian Horoscope)

Ref: Veenu Sandal

Sagittarius (November 22-December 21)

The new year will be the time to cash in on your early progress, success and efforts. Your ways of thinking will undergo some radical and valuable changes. You'll realise that despite assurances from key peaple, it is your own public relations that work the most. Instead of being content with taking with comes, you'll push hard for what you want.

In the second half of 2008, by exercising your choices wisely, you'll gain something you covet and have been working towards for some time. Despite a constant quest to make worthwhile new beginnings, you'll handle tasks with confidence. Attaining some short-term goals will be an important lever to reach a new position of power and strength.

In money matter, there'll be marked improvements. In love, a good year, but do not become too dominanting.

Capricorn (December 22 - January 19)

You'll be able to deal with matters not just competently but in an inspired manner in 2008. The most marked effect of your focused thinking will be on your capacity to come up with new strategies and make the most of new situations. You'll be able to break away from pattern where you make your fair share but don't get adequate recognition. While you'll promote your interests and raise your performance levels, you're not going to become a workaholic.

In April though, do take care that you don't act on the wrong cues as your analysis could be correct but your timing may be wrong.

In money matters, whatever the situation, you'll be able to turn them to your advantage. In love, if you're attracted to somebody, but are not sure if your feelings will be reciprocated, 2008 will make things clearer.

... to be continued

Holiday Security

Ho Ho Ho ... Merry Christmas and Happy New Year

During the holiday season, normal concerns about personal safety and security can often take a backseat to the demands of the season. Maintaining an appropriate level of security, regardless of the activity you are in, is the key to remaining safe and secure during this holiday period.

It should also be noted that "parliamentary elections" are scheduled to be held throughout Thailand on December 23, 2007, and large-scale political demonstrations may increase as the scheduled elections grow closer. All demonstrations are unpredictable, and any demonstration can turn violent without warning. For this reason, I'd love to encorage all travellers to monitor local media for announcements of possible demonstrations and to avoid the areas where demonstrations might occur.

You should be careless in every step to the places, especially in locations where Westerners congregate, such as bars, restaurants, hotels, places of worship, and other places frequented by foreigners. It is important to be aware of your surrounding, especially during the holiday season, and report any suspicious activity to the nearest police.

Specifically, I wouild like to remind everyone to be aware of their surroudings while frequenting Bangkok's and Chiang Mai's many tourist venues and nightspots over the holiday period. There has been a rise in reports of people's drinks being drugged, leaving the victim unconscious, and subsequently robbed. Do not leave your drink unattended, and if you do, buy a new one.

Also over the holiday period, please be aware the Royal Thai Police (RTP) will be targeting the local bars and nightclubs implementing drug tests, in an effort to curb drug use. This will go hand-in-hand with the RTP's campaign targeting drunk driving through the use of sobriety check-points around the country. It is important to remember that if you are stopped by the RTP, you need to identify yourself with ID card / Passport.

Be Good and Have a great holiday.

See you next Year (2008)

With Love by Nida N., on behalf of Backpacker House, Chiang Mai http://www.siambackpack.com/

26th October: Amazing Phenomenon

"As the story goes, the King of Naga fireballs rise into the night sky to form the steps of the stairs by which the Lord Buddha descends from heaven."

Nong Khai, the Issan region of the north-east of Thailand, is located on the banks of the majestic Maekhong river, 615 km north-east of Bangkok. Across the river is People's Democratic Republic of Laos. Laotian capital Vientiane is only 25 kilometers away. The Gateway to Laos is the famous Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge which connects them. The bridge was built jointly by the governments of Thailand, Laos and Australia.

The rich cultures of Nong Khai, breathtaking scenery of the Maekhong river, and the charming community are sure to captivate if not impress all.

If you are coming to Nong Khai to see the Maekong Fireballs or Naga Fireballs on 26th of October 2007, why not travel down to Phon Phisai (where the Fireballs can be seen) in style.

Every now and again, reddish-pink elliptical balls of light with an eerie glow rise silently into the pitch-black night sky, without a flare, smoke or sound.

Known as the "Bang Fai Phaya Naga", the King of Naga fire-balls is a natural phenomenon that generally takes place on the full moon night of the 11th lunar month, the last night of the Buddhist Lent.

The balls of light, with uniform reddish-pink or rich crimson-burgundy hues of the Siamese Ruby, rise vertically into the night sky to heights ranging from 50 metres to 300 metres before they simply fade into thin air without a trace. The fireballs are visible for approximately 3 to 8 seconds at a time, before they vanish completely.

"The total number of fireballs varies with each location. On some occasions, there are as few as 22. On other nights, hundreds or thousands."

Sometimes these King of Naga fireballs, the size of goose eggs, float up languidly, two or three at a time. Other times, five to seven in a single sequence, and occasionally, up to nineteen of these balls of light float vigorously into the night sky.

Some rise in straight lines at an angle of 50o to 80o. Others are perpendicular to the surface of the Mekong River. It has been noted that if the fire-balls rise up from the mid-section of the river, they float towards shore, and if they rise along the shoreline, they float towards mid-stream.

It has been noted that when fireballs rise from the depths of the Mekong River and break the surface of the water with some force, they cause ripples and micro droplets of water are carried up by the balls of light thereby giving it a ghostly bluish tinge instead of the characteristic ruby-red colouring.

According to I-San folk belief, caverns along the banks in this section of the Mekong River are in fact gateways leading from the subterranean Naga world to the world of earthly beings. It is also believed that prompted by the festivities of the illuminated boats and the fireworks launched in an act of worship to celebrate the end of the Buddhist Lent, the mythical Naga emerge via these gateways to join in on the celebrations to commemorate the home-coming of Lord Buddha in his historical life.

These beliefs are renewed and further perpetuated by the fact that greenish/pink fireballs have been spotted around Kaeng Aa-hong, the deepest point in the Mekong River, and the deep underwater caves that line its cavernous shores.

King of Naga Fireballs - Stairway to Heaven
Based on timeless Buddhist tales, Lord Buddha ascended to the Heavens to offer sermons to his mother during the rains retreat marking the Buddhist Lent. On the final day of the Buddhist Lent, Lord Buddha returned to Earth. For the descent, there are three stairways from heaven - made of crystal, silver and gold respectively.

Ancient folklore of I-San passed down from generation to generation to this day are based on this theme. As the story goes, the King of Naga fireballs rise into the night sky to form the steps of the stairs by which the Lord Buddha descends from heaven.

Ancient tales and folklore abound. However, modern science does offer a well-grounded explanation for the King of Naga fireballs natural phenomenon.

Drug Awareness

There have been occasional reports of scopolamine drugging unscrupulous bar workers for the purpose of robbery. (Scopolamine is a powerful sedative.) Tourists have also been victimized by drugged food and drink, usually offered by a friendly stranger, sometimes posing as fellow traveler on an overnight bus or train.

In addition, casual acquaintances met in a bar or on the street may pose a threat. Travelers are advised to avoid leaving drinks or food unattended, and should avoid going alone to unfamiliar venues. Some trekking tour companies, particularly in Northern Thailand, have been known to make drugs available to trekkers.

Travelers should not accept drugs of any kind, as the drugs may be altered or harmful, and the use or sale of narcotic drugs is illegal in Thailand.$

Crimes of Opportunity

Although the crime threat in big city like Bangkok / Chiang Mai remains lower than that in many cities in America or Britain, crimes of opportunity such as pick-pocketing, purse-snatching, and burglary have become more common in recent years.

Travelers should be especially wary when walking in crowded markets, tourist sites and bus or train stations. Many UK, States, etc. citizens have reported having passports, wallets, and other valuables stolen in Bangkok's Chatuchak Weekend Market, usually by thieves who cut into purses or bags with a razor and remove items surreptitiously.

Police at the Market usually refuse to issue police reports for foreign victims of theft, requiring them insted to travel several miles to the central Tourist Police office. Violent crimes against foreigners are relatively rare.

News: Plane Crashes upon Landing at Phuket

A passenger plane heading to one of Thailand's leading tourist destinations crashed Sunday as it tried to land in heavy rain, splitting in two as it was engulfed in flames, officials said. As many as 100 people were feared dead.

The wreckage of a One-Two-Go passenger plane after it crashed while attempting to land at Phuket International Airport on Sunday, 16 September 2007.

(By Shanthy Nambiar and Suttinee Yuvejwattana)

Most of the people on board an airliner that crashed after landing in heavy rain on Thailand's resort island of Phuket are dead, Deputy Governor Vorapoj Rattasrima said. They included tourists from Britain, Australia, France and the Netherlands.

The One Two Go Airline Co. flight was a McDonnell Douglas Corp. MD-82 carrying 123 passengers and five crew, Vutichai Singhamanee, director of the aviation safety office, said in an interview. One Two Go is owned by Orient Thai Airlines Co. The flight left the capital Bangkok at 3:45 p.m., Chaisak Ungsuwan, director-general of Thailand's Air Transportation Department, told TITV television.

Bangkok Phuket Hospital was treating 28 people injured in the crash, marketing director Narueporn Sinto said in an interview. They include Thais, Australians, Irish, Canadians, French, Israelis, Iranians, Germans and British, she said. Phuket International Hospital has treated 11 people, including Swedish and Dutch, said nurse Thananda Chanakul.

Phuket is Thailand's premier tourist destination and one of the most popular with international visitors to Asia. Earnings from tourism accounted for 7 percent of the Southeast Asian nation's $195 million economy last year. A tsunami in December 2004 killed about 5,400 people and left nearly 3,000 missing in southern Thailand's islands, including Phuket.

Vorapoj told The Associated Press that at least 66 bodies were laid out in the airport building, 42 people were hospitalized and the rest were missing. Reuters quoted Vorapoj as saying the death toll was 88.

McDonnell Douglas
The aircraft was a McDonnell Douglas Corp. MD-82, the aviation safety office's Vutichai said. The flight left the capital Bangkok at 3:45 p.m., Chaisak Ungsuwan, director-general of Thailand's Air Transportation Department told TITV television.

"More people are dead than survived,'' Thailand's Minister of Tourism and Sports Suvit Yodmani said in an interview in Bangkok. "I think we will be able to confirm the number of deaths by tonight. We can't identify nationalities yet.'' The injured passengers have been taken to local hospitals, he said.
Phuket International Airport will be closed until 7 a.m. tomorrow morning, Vutichai said.

The airplane broke in two and caught on fire after skidding and hitting an embankment after landing in a heavy rainstorm, Channel 7 news reported. Television images showed the aircraft in pieces with smoke billowing from it. Many of the dead were still strapped into their seats, the television report cited eyewitnesses as saying. The injured have been taken to Phuket's Watchira Hospital, it said.
Worst Since 1998.

Today's crash may be Thailand's deadliest since a Thai Airways International Pcl Airbus A310-200 crashed while attempting to land at Surat Thani airport in southern Thailand in December 1998, killing 101 of the 146 people on board.

One Two Go Airline Chief Executive Officer Udom Tantiprasongchai said the company is investigating the event and is ready to take responsibility.

"I have contacted our insurance firm in London and we will take full responsibility on this,'' Udom said in an interview. "We will set up hotline soon and will have insurance officials contact people affect from the accident.''

Channel 9 TV station, citing Deputy Transport Minister Sansern Wongchaum, said 39 bodies have been found at the crash site, with 50 passengers reported injured.

Taxi & Tuk-Tuks

Reports of serious crimes involving taxis or "Tuk-Tuks" (three-wheeled taxis) are relatively rare, although attempts to charge excessive fares occur regularly. Several taxi-related incidents involving foreign passengers occur in Bangkok each year. Americans should not hesitate to ask to be let out of a taxi immediately if the driver is acting suspiciously or driving erratically.

When arriving at Bangkok's and Chiang Mai's airport, travelers should use only taxis from the airport's official taxi stand, cars from the airport buses. All major hotels in both Bangkok and Chiang Mai can also arrange to have a car and driveer meet incoming flights. It is not common for Thai taxis to pick up additional passengers. Travelers should be wary of drivers seeking to do so, and should never enter a cab that has someone besides the driver in it.

Beach and Boat Safety

Strong seasonal undercurrents at popular beach resorts pose a some-times-fatal threat to surfers and swimmers. During the monsoon season from May through October, drowning is the leading cause of death for tourists visiting the resort island of Phuket. Some, but not all, beaches have warning flags to indicate the degree of risk (red flag: sea condition dangerous for swimming; yellow flag: sea condition rough, swim with caution; green flag: sea condition stable).

Also, boat safety has become an increasing concern in Thailand. Ferries and speedboats used to transport tourists and local nationals to and from the many islands off the Thai mainland are often overcrowded and carry insufficient safety equipment. In January 2005, three U.S. citizen tourists died when the over-crowded speedboat they were in capsized and sank off the coast of Koh Samui. Three month later, two British narrowly escaped death when their dive boat sank off the coast near Phuket. We would like to encourages you to avoid travel on overcrowded boats, and to ensure that proper safety equipment (including life preservers) is available before boarding any boat or ferry.

Backpackers' Chiang Mai

A taste of the diversity of Thailand: travel from the vibrant metropolis of Bangkok to remote hill-tribe villages, lush rain-forests to deserted beaches and from riding elephants through the jungle to snorkelling on coral reefs.

Backpackers' Chiang Mai
(http://www.1stopchiangmai.com/backpackers/)

No doubt about it, Thailand is one of the coolest places on the planet. It's so cheap and chilled you could spend months here just relaxing, living off a tenner a day, and have an experience of a life time.

Northern Thailand is especially popular with backpackers; it's not full of saddo package tourists like Phuket is, nor manic like Bangkok and the whole town is geared up for budget, free-spirited travellers. The old town is full of amazing guesthouses tucked away down quiet lanes, and you can almost feel like they're home. There are some groovy bars and wicked places to party, plus loads of brilliant little restaurants all over the place serving veggie and organic food, or spicy Thai curries and noodles for less than a buck a meal.

Chiang Mai is full of backpackers and has a really laid back atmosphere; everyone here is down to earth and friendly, which is why many stay longer than planned. It's one of the cheapest tourist places in Thailand and you're spoilt for choice. Hire yourself a small motorbike and explore the fantastic natural areas that are so close to the city, such as Doi Suithep mountain, the beautiful Mae Sa valley and the small villages near the town. There are plenty of adrenalin pumping activities too, from white-water rafting to rock climbing, bungy jumping and mountain biking.

Many use Chiang Mai as a perfect base to go trekking, for sure this is one the main reasons people come up North and there are plenty of companies about town offering all sorts of options to head into the amazing mountains for a few days and stay in hill tribe villages, ride elephants and skiff down pristine rivers.

You absolutely can't come north without visiting Pai. This sleepy little town, three hours north over the mountain ranges is hardly a secret anymore, but a top place to chill and hang out with plenty of other free-spirits. Set in gorgeous rural surroundings beside a pretty little river, this small town has a brilliant bohemian atmosphere, and is a budget place that guarantees that the mass of tourists stay away. People stay for weeks; there are yoga and new age pursuits, healthy food, live music in the bars, cheap beer and lots of friendly relaxed people.

We Care, We Share

An Interview with God

"Come in," God said. "So, you would like to interview Me?" "If you have the time," the boy said. God smiled and said: "My time is eternity and is enough to do everything; what questions do you have in mind to ask me?"
พระเจ้าเชื้อเชิญเด็กผู้ชายคนหนึ่งเข้ามาในห้อง และถามเด็กน้อยว่าต้องการจะสัมภาษณ์ท่านหรือ เด็ก น้อยตอบว่า "ขอเพียงท่านมีเวลาพอ". พระเจ้าได้ยินดังนั้นจึงตอบว่าท่านมีเวลาอันเป็นนิรันดร์ จึงมี เวลาพอเพียงสำหรับทุกสิ่ง พร้อมกับถามถึงคำถามที่อยู่ในใจของเด็กผู้ชายคนนั้น

"What surprises you most about mankind?" the boy asked.
เด็กน้อยจึงถามถึงสิ่งที่พระเจ้าประหลาดใจที่สุดเกี่ยวกับมนุษย์

God answered: "That they get bored of being children, are in a rush to grow up, and then long to be children again. That they lose their health to make money and then lose their money to restore their health. That by thinking anxiously about the future, they forget the present, such that they live neither for the present nor the future. That they live as if they will never die, and they die as if they had never lived..."
"แปลกใจที่มนุษย์มักจะเบื่อหน่ายการเป็นเด็ก ต้องการเร่งวันคืนที่จะเติบโตเป็นผู้ใหญ่ แต่แล้วก็กลับต้อง การเป็นเด็กเล็กอีกครั้งหนึ่ง... แปลกใจที่มนุษย์ทำให้สุขภาพตนเองแย่เพื่อใช้เวลาไปกับการทำงานหนัก แต่แล้วก็กลับต้องสูญเสียเงินไปกับการรักษาสุขภาพให้ดีดังเดิม...แปลกใจกับการที่มนุษย์มักจะวิตกกังวล กับอนาคต จนหลงลืมปัจจุบัน ทำให้ตัวเองไม่รู้แน่ชัดว่าใช้ชีวิตอยู่กับปัจจุบันหรืออนาคต...แปลกใจกับการ ใช้ชีวิตของมนุษย์ ที่ใช้ชีวิตราวกับจะไม่มีวันตาย แต่แล้วกลับตายไปราวกับว่าไม่เคยมีชิวิตอยู่..."

There were silent for while and then the boy asked... "As a parent, what are some of life's lessons you want your children to learn?"
ความเงียบเข้าปกคลุมชั่วเวลาหนึ่ง และเด็กน้อยผู้นั้นก็ถามต่อว่า "ในฐานะของผู้ปกครอง อะไรคือบท เรียนแห่งชีวิตที่ท่านต้องการให้ลูกๆของท่านได้เรียนรู้"

God replied with a smile: "To learn that they cannot make anyone love them. What they can do is to let themselves be loved.
จงเรียนรู้ว่าพวกเข้าไม่สามารถทำให้ใครมารักได้ สิ่งที่ทำได้คือทำให้ตนเองเป็นที่รักของผู้อื่น

To learn that what is most valuable is not what they have in their lives, but who they have in their lives.
จงเรียนรู้ว่าสิ่งที่มีค่าที่สุด ไม่ใช่สิ่งต่างๆที่มีอยู่ในชีวิต แต่คือคนที่มีอยู่ในชีวิตต่างหาก

To learn that it is not good to compare themselves to others. All will be judged individually on their own merits, not as a group on a comparison basis!
จงเรียนรู้ว่าไม่ควรจะเอาตนเองไปเปรียบเทียบกับผู้อื่น ทุกคนจะถูกตัดสินตามความดีของแต่ละบุคคล มิ ใช่ตามการเปรียบเทียบในกลุ่ม

To learn that a rich person is not the one who has the most, but is one who needs the least.
จงเรียนรู้ว่าคนมั่งคั่งไม่ใช่คนที่มีมากที่สุด แต่เป็นคนที่ต้องการน้อยที่สุด

To learn that it only takes a few seconds to open profound wounds in persons we love, and that it takes many years to heal them.
จงเรียนรู้ว่าเราใช้เวลาเพียงเสี้ยวนาทีในการทำให้คนที่เรารักเสียใจ แต่ใช้เวลาหลายปีเพื่อรักษา แผลทางใจนั้น

To learn to forgive by practicing forgiveness.
จงเรียนรู้ที่จะให้อภัย โดยการฝึกการให้อภัย

To learn that there are persons that love them dearly, but simply do not know how to express or show their feelings.
จงเรียนรู้ว่ามีคนที่รักเรามาก เพียงแต่ไม่รู้วิธีที่จะแสดงความรู้สึกนั้นออกมา

To learn that money can buy everything but happiness.
จงเรียนรู้ว่าเงินสามารถซื้อทุกอย่างได้ ยกเว้นความสุข

To learn that two people can look at the same thing and see it totally different.
จงเรียนรู้ว่าคนสองคนสามารถมองสิ่งๆเดียวกันให้มีความหมายที่แตกต่างกันโดยสิ้นเชิง

To learn that a true friend is someone who knows everything about them...and likes them anyway.
จงเรียนรู้ว่าเพื่อนแท้คือคนที่รู้ทุกๆสิ่งเกี่ยวกับเรา แต่ก็ยังคงชอบในตัวตนของเรา

The boy sat there for a while enjoying the moment. He thanked God for the time and for all that He has done for him, and The God replied, "Anytime. I'm here 24 hours a day. All you have to do is ask for me, and I'll answer."
เด็กชายนั่งนิ่งคิดซักพักหนึ่ง เขาขอบคุณพระเจ้าสำหรับเวลาและทุกสิ่งที่ให้กั บเขา พระเจ้ายิ้มรับและตอบ กับเด็กน้อยว่า พระองค์ทรงอยู่กับเขาตลอดเวลา เพื่อจะตอบคำถามที่เด็กน้อยสงสัย

"People will forget what you said. People will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel."

Cross Cultural Tips

"No" is a Problem
Better to accept and avoid misunderstandings

Many years ago, Andy from United Kingdom visited Thailand for a holidays. He stayed with a Thai family of a close friend and things went very well.

The family took good care of him. In fact, the hospitality shown was beyond the British standard and he was sometimes irritated by the attentiveness shown by his hosts.

One night, before he went to bed, he was playing the piano in the living room when the head of family came over and asked: "Andy, Would you like to have coffee, tea or a cup of milk?"

Andy politely declined: "Oh don't worry, I am fine. I do not want any drink. Thank you"

............
About five minutes later, a cup of English tea was served by the maid. Andy did not say anything but he did not drink the tea, since his habit was not to have any drink before going to bed. The Thai man who was the head of the family was a little disappointed because he took Andy's reaction to be a rebuff. Andy was a little annoyed because he thought that the host had not understood his English!!

But behind the scenes was another story...

When Andy said that he was fine and that he did not want anything, the host understood Andy's English perfectly. But in our culture, when someone offers us services, we have to show good manners. The Thai host thought that Andy might have wanted a cup of tea but was just being courteous (เกรงใจ).

Another reason is our culture is big on hospitality. We have a motto: "When serving food to monks, don't ask. (ตักบาตรอย่าถามพระ)" -- In our Buddhist society, every morning the monks walk to people's homes. People show kindness by offering them food. Thais always say not to ask the monk what food he prefers as monks cannot be selective about what they eat. Whatever is edible and offered, the monks is obliged to accept, whether it is appropriate to offer foods or help. Thus in Andy's case, we can see that our over-hospitable nature may create misunderstanding.

Next time, if a Thai offers you something without you asking, don't be surprised. The suggestion is to accept it and thank the person for their hospitality.

(Story by: Kriengsak Niratpattanasai)

Trip from Chiang Mai to Hua Hin

Chiang Mai launches new bus route to Hua Hin

Chiang Mai Province Transportation Authority Office has launched a new bus route, Chiang Mai – Hua Hin, to advance transportation services between the North and the South, as well as to support domestic travelling in Thailand. Chanchai Kirapang, an official from the Chiang Mai Province Transportation Authority Office, revealed that Thepsombat Co.Ltd (Sombat Tour) has been allocated by the authority to operate on the new route using their 32 person- first class air-condition bus, Scania type Euro 3.

The route will go through Nakhonsawan, Chinat, Supanburi, Petchburi, Cha-am and Hua Hin, taking about 12 hours 30 minutes. The bus leaves from Chiang Mai at 6.15 p.m. and arrives in Hua Hin at 6.45 a.m., then leaving from Hua Hin at 5 p.m. and arriving in Chiang Mai at 5.30 a.m. The fee is 785 baht per person with one meal and some refreshments.

The service started 30th May. For more information or reservations, call 053-246531 (Chiang Mai) and 032-514837 (Hua Hin)

(Refer to: ChiangmaiNews.com)

The New 7 Wonders of the World

The final tally produced this list of the world’s top human-built wonders

The new seven wonders of the world were named Saturday following an online vote that generated server-crushing traffic in its final hours. And the named of new 7 wonders of the World is ...

PYRAMID AT CHICHEN ITZA, MEXICO
This step-pyramid surmounted by a temple survives from a sacred site that was part of one of the greatest Mayan centers of Mexico's Yucatan peninsula. Built according to the solar calendar, it is placed so that shadows cast at the fall and spring equinoxes are said to look like a snake crawling down the steps, similar to the carved serpent at the top.

CHRIST THE REDEEMER STATUE, BRAZIL
The 125-foot-tall statue of Christ the Redeemer with outstretched arms overlooks Rio de Janeiro from atop Mt. Corcovado. The statue, which weighs more than 1,000 tons, was built by Polish-French sculptor Paul Landowski in pieces in France starting in 1926, then shipped to Brazil. The pieces were carried by cogwheel railway up the mountain for assembly. The statue was inaugurated in 1931.

COLOSSEUM, ITALY
The giant amphitheater in Rome was inaugurated in A.D. 80 by the Emperor Titus in a ceremony of games lasting 100 days. The 50,000-seat Colosseum, which has influenced the design of modern sports stadiums, was an arena where thousands of gladiators dueled to the death and Christians were fed to the lions.

GREAT WALL OF CHINA
The 4,160-mile barricade running from east to west in northern China is the longest man-made structure in the world. The fortification, which largely dates from the 7th through the 4th century B.C., was built to protect the dynasties from invasion by the Huns, Mongols, Turks and other nomadic tribes.

PETRA, JORDAN
The ancient city of Petra in southwestern Jordan, built on a terrace around the Wadi Musa or Valley of Moses, was the capital of the Arab kingdom of the Nabateans. It also flourished under Roman rule after the Nabateans were defeated in A.D. 106. The city is famous for its water tunnels and numerous stone structures carved in rock, the most impressive of which is probably Ad-Dayr, an uncompleted tomb facade that served as a church during Byzantine times.

MACHU PICCHU, PERU
Built by the Incan Empire in the 15th century, the giant walls, palaces, temples and dwellings of the Machu Picchu sanctuary are perched in the clouds at 8,000 feet above sea level in the Andes mountains. It remains a mystery how the huge stones were moved into place for the construction of the remote city.

TAJ MAHAL, INDIA
The white marble-domed mausoleum in Agra was built by Mogul Emperor Shah Jahan between 1632 and 1654 for his favorite wife, Mumtaz Mahal, who died in childbirth. The complex - an example of Mughal architecture combining Indian, Persian, and Islamic styles - houses the graves of the emperor and his wife, as well as those of lesser royalty.

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Rugby World Cup in France … September - October 2007

The Rugby World Cup is one of the world’s top sporting events covered by the media.

This sixth edition, which France is hosting for the first time, will take place in ten cities (Paris, Saint Denis, Toulouse, Nantes, Marseilles, Lyons, Bordeaux, Lens, Saint Etienne and Montpellier) and two associated cities in the United Kingdom (Edinburgh and Cardiff).

Nearly half a million foreign visitors are expected in France for the event, making it an ideal platform, beyond the sporting event itself, for strengthening exchanges between participating countries and France.

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The 2007 Rugby World Cup will be the sixth Rugby World Cup, for the quadrennial world championship. It will be hosted by France from 7th September to 20th October of 2007. France won the right to host the event in 2003, beating a bid from England.

Over 90 nations participated in the regional qualifying competitions that started in 2004. The eight quarter-finalists from the 2003 events automatically qualified, twelve further nations have qualified. Portugal is the only debutant nation at the 2007 World Cup.

This World Cup will have 20 nations contesting 48 matches over 44 days. Forty-two matches will be spread between ten French cities, with four matches to be held in Cardiff, Wales and two matches in Edinburgh, Scotland.

Tickets for the Rugby World Cup were broken up into three phases. The first phase were released in November 2005. Upon the release of the second phase ticketing scheme, more than 100,000 tickets were sold in the first ten hours of release.

The remaining tickets were released in phase three in November 2006, being individual tickets and tickets to the semi-finals to an 'unprecedented demand'.

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The Paradise on Earth

Today, I'd like to mention about the beautiful island I have dream on ... Yeah! Koh Kood. Last year I always asked my friend to bring me to Koh Kood, but we can't because all resorts are full and we don't wanna stay over night on land just for waiting to get the speed boat (Pranburi was our destination instead). However, this year my friends and I am going to this Island for 3 days 2 nights ... and tonight I will drive to the port at 2 am start from bangkok (Someone leaving to the State tonight for educational reason, I wish you have a safety good journey!! -- Byeeee). Well, I have to take a nap before leaving, will tell you guy when I come back safety from the trip ... OK?!?

Here's the information about Koh Kood, ...

... the paradise island close to Koh Chang in Thailand, is located at the very end of the Thai eastern maritime territory bordering Cambodia. Koh Kood is the last Island in the Trat Sea Waters. Covering 105 square kilometers, it is the second biggest island of the province of Trat, after Koh Chang. Koh Kood the nature lover destination and save money.

What draws visitors, mostly locals, to come to this island is its completely pristine nature, both inland and underwater. Small mountains and ridged plains have given rise to many inland brooks, streams and waterfalls. Klong Chao Waterfall in particular is particularly spectacular. With three tiers, it brims with glittering water all year round, superb for soaking and swimming. It was once visited by King Mongkut (King Rama VI) and was given the royal name ‘Anamkok Waterfall’ in commemoration to Ong Chiang Lue, a Vietnamese king taking refuge in the Kingdom of Thailand during the reign of King Rama I in the late 18th century. Koh Kood Island , Trat, ThailandThe original inhabitants were Thais and Cambodians who fled to the Thai territory when the French took over the city of Padjantakiri in 1904. The oldest community is Klong Mad Village whose residents still make a living out of planting rubber trees, coconut trees and basic fisheries. But the biggest community here is Ao Yai Village, a harbor where many fishing boats seek refuge during rough weather.

If you have any suggestions or comments, please e-mail us at backpacker@siambackpack.com

The Journey begins ...

Special…spend the Songkran Thai New Year at Chiang Mai

Song Kran Festival -- Chiang Mai, Thailand: 13 April 2007 to 15 April 2007

It's only 5 days Songkran, Water fight festival will start every whaer in Thailand ... However, I recommend you to stay and join this cooling holiday in Chiang Mai (my hometown!!)

Songkran is the celebration of Thai New Year and means to pass or to move.This relates to the solar calendar, when the sun moves past twelve zodiacs which correspond to one year.

Many locals wear new clothes to pay respect to elders and, in a polite manner, can splash water on friends and family.This is perhaps the crux of the festival and the Chiang Mai tourism authority makes it clear that aggressively throwing water at people, through water guns or bombs, isn't allowed.

Many sources depict Songkran as a crazy water fight and indeed in many regions it is just that. However, those who visit Chiang Mai will witness a more traditional celebration attempting to phase out the water fights in the street.

Regardless, Songkran is an interesting festival to observe and is still the focus of a great deal of fun.

All we, Thai worker, are very happy for this long holiday acorrdinglt to the cabinet meeting on April 3, 2007 has agreed to set Tuesday 17 April 2007 as an additional public holiday for Songkran Festival. Therefore, the holidays of 13-16 April 2007 is changed to 13-17 April 2007, total of 5 consecutive days.

-- Read More about Song Kran Festival --

• The Ancient Customs and Traditions of Songkran
• Where to stay locally, fresh and happy during Songkran [1]
• Where to stay locally, fresh and happy during Songkran [2]

P.S. Don't forget to try original Thai-Lanna food when you are in Chiang Mai or even in Bangkok Lanna food is accessible anywhere. Well, if you're not fancy Thai-Lanna food -- you then should try "Kao Chae": the combination of fresh, aromatic, and subtly saccharine tastes.

Can be hazardous by walking on the sidewalks here in Bangkok

Public Safety: Defensive Walking!
By: GAG

Well, I hate to be an "I told you so!! But I have heard through the "Grapevine" (otherwise known as the "Gossip Mill") that one of our numbers has switched membership in the "Type of Faarangs that live in Bangkok Club"

What!! You don't remember that there are two(2) types of Farangs that live in Bangkok! Well, here is the joke again!

...Two Farangs (Foriegners) are talking
1: "Do you know there are two types of Farangs here in Bangkok?"
2: "No!... Really? Tell me, what are the two types?"
1: "Farangs that have fallen into a hole in the sidewalk, and those that haven't fallen into one yet! Ha! Ha!"

Yes!! One of our gang has fallen into a hole in the sidewalk and suffered an injury!! Please take note of the suggested precautions below.

The sidewalks here in Bangkok ... can be hazardous and most of the sidewalk areas are poorly lighted (if lighted at all!)

Not only do we have to be careful while walking along the sidewalks because of the uneven surfaces we encounter (also, watch out for grease on the sidewalk in areas where sidewalk food vendors are located), but, in some cases, there are very deep holes in the sidewalk ares. Some of the holes are actually covered by the sidewalk surface bricks held together only by the side friction of the bricks. (It is almost like a deadfall trap used to capture animals in the wild!)

So, be observant when you walk along! Be aware of the possible danger areas and exercise caution!!

Also, you have to watch out for vehicles. Vehicles actually on the sidewalk (mostly motorcycles and motorcycle taxis) and those vehicles driving very close to the curbs.

A very good practice to exercise at all times is --- "Don't walk close to or right on the roadway curb"

Why? ... Both trucks and busses have rear view mirrors that stick out quite far from the sides of the vehicles and if the driver has his wheels almost on the curb, it is very possible for pedestrians on the sidewalk, to be struck by the rear view mirror. The streets here in Bangkok are narrow and when large vehicles pass by each other, they invariably "hug" the curbs to be sure not to strike the oncoming vehicle. The driver is watching the oncoming vehicle and not the pedestrian standing or walking along the roadway ... So ...... Pedestrians Beware!

Practice Defensive Walking!!

Looking at our City and our House

Fact! About our property and public

I’ve heard someone said that "Usually Thai people don't care about anything outside their own fences because they think it is not their own." This might because they think it is not interesting to keep watching and take care whatever not their own, if they want to throw something away, they just throw it outside their area -- because they think it is not their responsibility.

I think this is true when I see public area such as footpaths, pathways, sidewalks, littered on, or destroyed. There are departments that have responsibility of taking care of these areas, but this is not enough. We use these public areas, so it is also important that we improve and take care of these places as well. In fact, it is more important that we do our part to ensure they are always useful, since we are the ones who use them.

Let's think about this. When you have to walk or you have to use a pathway, I believe you will think it will be difficult to trek in the wild. Why? Because you have to sidestep the several shops which are scattered beside the pathway. And you must always be careful to avoid traps such as gutters and holes. Then there are the cracks in the pathways which you must also train yourself to avoid, and if it's raining you must also beware of holes in the awnings overhead. Merely thinking about using the pathways makes me tired. Then there is the heat, in sharp contrast to the cold air conditioning in the department stores. Like I said, walking on the pathway is an adventure.

Perhaps this is the definition of the term "Concrete Jungle"?

The question is why we can't have great pathways like other cities. Why we don't have pathways that we can proudly say we really own?

If we focus on Chiang Mai City, we will see the pathway around the moat. This is a good pathway that we want to around, quite unlike the busy pathway at the Night Bazaar. Also, Walking Street is a good place to walk. It gives pedestrians a good opportunity to enjoy walking along a wider pathway, and it's a very good place to walk in the evening during the cold winter weather in th North of Thailand (however this summer this Walking Street still continued open and attractive for all Thais and foreigners). But the point is that when we talk about these public pathways, we must always ask this question: in our culture, what do we use the pathways and the public areas for?

In the past, waterways and thoroughfares were quite similar. In the country, pathways built around paddy fields to contain water were especially luxurious, and were the best way to connect field and field to house. But nowadays, in the big cities, the number of people living in them have made difficult. They need more signals. The designer must consider the needs of disabled people, motorcyclists, and even pets.

There are many pathways and public areas in other countries, because foreigners usually like the sunlight. This makes the design of public areas or pathways necessary. But since Thai people don't like the sunlight, designing public areas and pathways is not so important. Walking outdoors simply to enjoy being in the sun isn't popular here. Thus, any pathway built here must serve purposes. It may be for walking in the daytime but becomes a place for papaya salad shops or milk stores in the evening, a bustling shopping center in the nighttime, and cluttered with rice soup shops in the early morning. This is to say that, for an Asian road or pathway to be attractive to the public, it must serve several functions.

But how can we improve our pathways to be cool, beautiful, and appropriate? In this article, I just want to introduce this point for my first time greeting. I want to introduce this point for my first time greeting. In the next issue, I'll take you to visit the lovely public areas and show you that the grounds of these areas are attractive to our eyes, and that even though they are outside our fences, they can make us proud when we take care of them as if they were our areas as well. In fact, they are, and we should be proud of our country's great public areas and grate public pathways.

Travel Insurance: Plan your Safety Journey

Fire Safety:
Know your fire escape plan

By: GAG

Since we are all in the our country or during on vacation in other countries, ... we often get a chance to travel around the world and stay in many exotic places. We all should be aware that not all countries and/or cities where we may have occasion to visit/stay are as safety conscious for tourists'/visitors' welfare as we are used to in our place -- Home Sweet Home!

So..... in many, many casws, we have to watch out for ourselves and our loved ones.

It is always "a good things" to be observant of the surroundings around us.

One of the "things" one should really be observant of, when we are visiting foreign countries and staying in hotels or resorts, is how to get out of the building and to a safe area in case of a fire.

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More frequently than you might think.

So, when you have cheecked into your rooms and before you settle down for the night, take a quick look around your room/floor for the stairs (don't try to use the elevator during a fire!) and a way out -- just in case!! Point out the "exits" to your fellow travelers and most importantly --- Your Children!! --- They depend upon you in an emergency!! It is especially important to make sure they understand that they must escape; they can't hide from fire under a bed or in a closet.

Summer: Swim against the sun

GAG says, 'Swimming Pool Safety'

(GAG: Good Advice Guru)

The weather is warming up to the point that we will start to spend more and more time at the pool. With the warm weather we experience here in Chiang Mai, we could swim the entire year!

We'hv read about 'Pool Safety' of the State Department -- Drowning was the leading cause of accidental death for toddlers.

However, drowning is the second leading cause of accidental death for toddlers in the United States! Never heard what is the cause of death for toddlers in Thailand. Well be safe this summer.




Why are toddlers vulnerable to drowning in swimming pools?

• Toddlers typically drown by the time their caregivers notice their absence. Look in the pool first if a child is missing.


• Their center of gravity is high. Combined with their lack of balancing skills when bending, they are prone to falling when leaning or reaching over the water.


• They lack the awareness to master water safety skills such as survival floatation, safe poolside behavior or energy conservation swimming.


• Toddlers drown silently without a splash or a scream. They simply sink rapidly and quietly to the bottom of the pool.


• To prevent brain damage, toddlers must be resuscitated within 3 minutes after breathing and heartbeat stop.

** Always ensure that toddlers and children are directly and constantly supervised in or around the pool

Saving Time early, Daylight Longer

To Help the World saving energy
(Daylight Saving Time)
By: Bob Aldrich



Spring forward...Fall back....

It's ingrained in our consciousness almost as much as the A-B-Cs or our spelling reminder of "i before e...." And it's a regular event, though perhaps a bit less regular than the swallows coming back to Capistrano.



Yet in those four words is a whole collection of trivia, facts and common sense about Daylight Saving Time.



In 2005 and 2006, Daylight Saving Time begins for most of the United States at 2 a.m. on the first Sunday of April. Time reverts to standard time at 2 a.m. on the last Sunday of October.



Beginning in 2007
Daylight Saving Time is extended one month and begins for most of the United States at:

2 a.m. on the Second Sunday in March - 2 a.m. on the First Sunday of November.



One of the biggest reasons we change our clocks to Daylight Saving Time (DST) is that it saves energy. Energy use and the demand for electricity for lighting our homes is directly connected to when we go to bed and when we get up. Bedtime for most of us is late evening through the year. When we go to bed, we turn off the lights and TV.

In the average home, 25 percent of all the electricity we use is for lighting and small appliances, such as TVs, VCRs and stereos. A good percentage of energy consumed by lighting and appliances occurs in the evening when families are home. By moving the clock ahead one hour, we can cut the amount of electricity we consume each day.

Daylight Saving Time "makes" the sun "set" one hour later and therefore reduces the period between sunset and bedtime by one hour. This means that less electricity would be used for lighting and appliances late in the day. We also use less electricity because we are home fewer hours during the "longer" days of spring and summer. Most people plan outdoor activities in the extra daylight hours. When they are not at home, the appliances and lights are turn off.

A poll done by the U.S. Department of Transportation indicated that Americans liked Daylight Saving Time because "there is more light in the evenings / can do more in the evenings."

In the winter, the afternoon Daylight Saving Time advantage is offset by the morning's need for more lighting. In spring and fall, the advantage is less than one hour. So, Daylight Saving Time saves energy for lighting in all seasons of the year except for the four darkest months of the year (November, December, January and February) when the afternoon advantage is offset by the need for lighting because of late sunrise.