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Into the Blue World

Produced by Promotional Material Production Division,Marketing Services Department, Tourism Authority of Thailand for free distribution.www.tourismthailand.org E/OCT 2007The contents of this publication are subject to change without notice.

Into the Blue World 3

Why Tha-le Thai? 5

The Gulf of Thailand - East 11

The Gulf of Thailand - West 14

ContentsNorth Andaman 17

Make it Safe 31

Save Tha-le Thai 32

Links to Dive Operators 32

More eBrochures ContentsMake it Safe Save Tha-le Thai

Links to Dive OperatorsNorth AndamanThe Gulf of

Thailand - WestThe Gulf of

Thailand - EastWhy

Tha-le Thai?Into the Blue World 3

Tha-le Thai (Thai Seas) comprises 402,000 sq. km. of marine environment and includes over 500 islands in the Indo-Pacifi c region, the union between the Pacifi c Ocean - the largest ocean in the world, and the Indian Ocean- the smallest and most mysterious one. The faunas of both oceans meet in the region and nutrient-rich food particles from some of the world’s major rivers fl ow from the richest tropical rain forests of Asia. These factors contribute to giving the Indo-Pacifi c region the greatest diversity of marine life in the world. And at the heart of the Indo-Pacifi c is Tha-le Thai. Now, we would like to take you deep into the underwater world - the world of coral reefs, the oldest and most diverse ecosystem ever discovered on this planet. The world of coral reefs in Tha-le Thai.

Into the Blue WorldTarutao Marine National Park




Thailand - EastWhy





Thailand - EastWhy


‘Tha-le’ translates as “a great open space of salty water”, but deep under the surface, this open space reveals an abundance of life. With ideal natural conditions, a temperature of 24-28°C and mineral supplementation from the mainland, Tha-le Thai has unique characteristics that are rarely found elsewhere.

Why Tha-le Thai?Ko Tao, Surat thani

Bangkok

Chumphon

PhuketTrang

Krabi

Rayong

Similan

SurinKo Tao

Ko Pha-ngan

Pattaya

Ko Chang

Ko Phi PhiHin Muang Hin Daeng




Thailand - EastWhy





Thailand - EastWhy


Ko Man Nok, Rayong

The 12 points below will explain why your destination must be Tha-le Thai.• The Gulf of Thailand is one of seventeen seas that produce the highest volume

of marine resources in the world.• Twenty percent of the world’s coral reef fi sh and over 800 species can be

observed in the reefs of Thailand.• Tha-le Thai is one of the few sites in the world where Whale Sharks and Manta

Rays are often found. More importantly, to encounter these two giants of the sea, you need only spend a little money and time, yet the convenience and safety are ultimate.

• To one side of Tha-le Thai is the Pacifi c Ocean; on the other is the Indian Ocean. These very different geographical environments combine to provide a diversity of marine life that is uniquely different.

• By choosing the right destination to avoid the monsoon seasons, travel to Tha-le Thai is possible year-round.

• The coasts of Thailand boast many famous tourist towns, such as Pattaya, Samui, Phuket and Krabi. In terms of price and luxury, the convenience of marine tourism is up to your pocket.

• Tha-le Thai is relatively small, so travel time is minimal. Just 2 hrs. 30 min. from Phuket is one of the most beautiful desinations in the world.

• The development of SCUBA tourism started over 30 years ago. The high level of competition helps create a very high standard.

• Because safety is fi rst and foremost, the network of national parks and dive operators have united to provide a high level of dive safety. If there were to be an accident, the patient could travel from the furthest dive site, in the middle of the sea, to a professional hospital specialised in the hazards of diving within 3-4 hours.

• Because environmental preservation is important, the network of 26 marine national parks and more than 2,000 mooring buoys at almost every dive site ensure that your visit will not harm the underwater world.

• Smiles and paying respect to spirits are not only found on the mainland, but also out at sea.

• Thailand is the gateway to other nearby underwater destinations such as the Mergui Archipelago in Myanmar.




Thailand - EastWhy


November to May is the season for diving in the Andaman Sea. If you would like to fully experience the tropical skies, sunlight and clear undisturbed waters, February to April is best. April to October is the dive season in the Gulf of Thailand. The best time is between August and September.

When to Visit Tha-le Thai?

For the beginnerYou can learn how to dive with experienced instructors from international institutes like PADI, NAUI, etc. in as little as 3-4 days and at a cost of approximately 10,000 baht. In Thailand, there are more than 400 dive centres with international standards. Diving schools can be found in almost every marine tourism destination, including Bangkok, Pattaya, Ko Chang, Ko Samui, Phuket and Krabi. Ko Tao is the second largest centre in the world for learning to dive. Language is not an obstacle to learning to dive in Thailand, since diving centres can instruct you in many different tongues.

For the licensed diverDiving in Tha-le Thai follows international regulations. If you have a licence from a reliable diving institute, you can dive in Tha-le Thai by means of Resort Diving, Day Trips or Live-Aboard styles from as short as half a day to a week. Tha-le Thai has dive sites of every type, ranging from shallow clear water coral reefs for recreational divers, to cliffs and underwater caves for adventurous divers. You can choose from drift dives, wreck dives, wall dives, cave dives, and night dives.

How to Dive Tha-le Thai?




Thailand - EastWhy





Thailand - EastWhy


With a variety of activities, Tha-le Thai is not only limited to those who are infatuated with diving. You may enjoy a change of scenery by partaking in other activities such as rock climbing, sea kayaking, relaxing on the beach, bird- and animal-watching in primitive moist evergreen forests on the islands, or even experience the local way of life of communities such as the Sea Gypsies, who have been living in the Andaman Sea for over a thousand years. All these activities can be found throughout Tha-le Thai.

More Fun in Tha-le Thai

Where to Dive?Detailed information on diving in Thailand is available in several books on sale in leading bookshops throughout the country. Therefore, this pamphlet aims only to provide essential details for selected dive sites.




Thailand - EastWhy


The Gulf of Thailand - EastDiving in this area is convenient, since it saves travel time and money. Important dive sites are located in Pattaya and Muko Chang.




Thailand - EastWhy


Pattaya

Pattaya has been a world-famous seaside resort for more than 40 years, and has a well-developed tourism industry. So visitors can choose from food and accommodation in a wide range of styles and prices to suit every budget. It is said that diving in Pattaya is the most inexpensive in Thailand or even the world.Dive sites in Pattaya fall into one of 3 groups.

• Near-shore islands such as Ko Lan and Ko Sak. Visibility is not that good but the sites are accessible within 20-40 min., and at low cost. The coral reefs are also not that diverse but by following the sandy fl oor you may encounter strange animals such as the Sea Horse, Sea Moth, Indian Walkman, and Crocodile Fish.

• Offshore islands such as Ko Rin. Although costing more in terms of time and money, this site has the best visibility in the area.

• This area has 3 shipwrecks. The most famous is the Hardeep, a ship bombed during World War II. Another is the H.M.S. Kram, a Royal Thai Navy warship that was intentionally sunk in order to create a new dive site in the area.

Beauty **Fauna ***Depth 6-30 m.Visibility 5-20 m.Duration 1 dayTime to Visit Year-round, though best from March to SeptemberCost 1,200-2,500 Baht/dayService Style Day tripTypes of Dive Reef dive and wreck diveSpecial Features: The convenience of the cityAccess • 2 hrs. 20 min. by car from Bangkok. • By bus from the Eastern Bus Terminal Tel: 0 2391 2504 , www.transport.co.th • By plane to U-Taphao Airport.Contact TAT Central Region Offi ce: Region 3 Tel: 0 3842 7667, 0 3842 8750 www.tourismthailand.org




Thailand - EastWhy


Beauty **Fauna **Depth 0-25 m.Visibility 5-20 m.Duration 1 dayTime to Visit Year-round, though best from March to SeptemberCost 1,500-3,000 Baht/dayService Style Day tripTypes of Dive Reef dive and open seaSpecial Features Dive and relax on large islands not far from BangkokAccess • 5 hrs. by car from Bangkok. Take the ferry from the port in Trat Province. • By bus from the Eastern Bus Terminal,Tel: 02391 2504 www.transport.co.th • By plane, 40 min. from Bangkok. Transfer to the island is available. Bangkok Airways Tel: 0 2265 5555 www.bangkokair.comContact TAT Central Region Offi ce: Region 5 Tel: 0 3959 7255, 0 3959 7259-60 www.tourismthailand.org

Ko Chang is accessible by road and car ferry, being just 5 hours from Bangkok. Alternatively you can fl y to Trat, which reduces travel time by more than half. Ko Chang is a relatively new tourist destination, and on this second largest island of Thailand, an abundance of forests can be found in the national park areas. Resorts and restaurants are located in tourist areas such as Sai Khao Beach, as well as at other sites on the other 52 islands and islets of the archipelago.

Diving in Ko Chang is possible on the shallow coral reefs, but the visibility is quite poor. The diversity of fauna is average. If you would like to enjoy a more beautiful underwater environment, you should dive at the rocks located to the south of Ko Chang, such as Hin Sam Sao and Hin Look Bath. This area is open sea, and the visibility is better than in any other part of the east. For aquatic scenery, there are hard corals, sea whips, and a few species of soft corals. A greater diversity of fi sh can be found here, especially reef fi shes such as damselfi sh and angelfi sh, as well as larger pelagic fi sh such as barracuda, trevally, or even shark.

At present, diving in Ko Chang is still expanding. The costs are reasonable and the standard of service is increasing. It can be hoped that in the near future, this area might become the dive centre of the east.

Ko Chang




Thailand - EastWhy


The Gulf of Thailand - WestThe seas over here are clearer than in the rest of the gulf. The increasing diversity of marine life and the romantic atmosphere of the beaches and islands have propelled the following destinations to the status of legends.

Beauty ***Fauna ***Depth 10-25 m.Visibility 10-25 m.Duration 1 dayTime to Visit Almost all year, except November and DecemberCost 2,000-2,500 Baht/dayService Style Resort divingTypes of Dive Reef dive and open seaSpecial Features Diving in tranquil seasAccess • 6 hrs. by car from Bangkok. • By bus from the Southern Bus Terminal Tel: 0 2435 1199 www.transport.co.th • By plane, 1 hr. 15 min. from Bangkok to Suratthani. Thai Airways International Tel: 0 2628 2000 www.thaiairways.comContact TAT Southern Offi ce: Region 5, Tel: 0 7728 1828, 0 7728 8817-9 www.tourismthailand.org

Chumphon is a quiet seaside town and has not yet been developed as a large tourism destination. Those who come to Chumphon can not only admire the more than 40 islands, but can also learn about the Thai lifestyle, whilst experiencing nature. Several alternative activities such as rafting and agrotourism are cheaper here than at other more famous tourism destinations. The dive sites of Chumphon are far from shore, but are still accessible by boat within one hour. Visibility is better here than at dive sites in the east. The most abundant growth of black corals in Thailand and the Whale Shark, which always visits at the beginning of summer, attract divers to Chumphon. Honeymoon couples or families can dive, whilst others enjoy activities on shore.

Chumphon

Ko Lanka Chio, Chumphon




Thailand - EastWhy


Beauty ***Fauna ***Depth 10-30 m.Visibility 15-25 m.Duration 1-3 dayTime to Visit Almost all year, except November and DecemberCost 1,500-3,000 Baht/dayService Style Resort diving, day trip and live-aboardTypes of Dive Reef dive and open seaSpecial Features: Popular diving sites in the Gulf of ThailandAccess • 6 hrs. by car from Bangkok (to Chumphon), then 1½ rs. by speedboat to Ko Tao. • By bus to Chumphon (Ferry to Ko Tao). 10 hrs. by bus or car from Bangkok (to Surat- thani), 2½ hrs. by ferry to Ko Pha-ngan. Southern Bus Terminal Tel: 0 2435 1199 www.transport.co.th • By plane, 1 hr. from Bangkok to Ko Samui. Bangkok Airways, Tel: 0 2265 5555, www.bangkokair.comContact: TAT Southern Offi ce: Region 5 Tel: 0 7728 1828, 0 7728 8817-9 www.tourismthailand.org

Ko Pha-ngan and Ko TaoMore than 70 islands, including the 3 world-famous islands of Ko Samui, Ko Phangan and Ko Tao make this area one of the most famous dive sites in Thailand.

Access is very convenient by plane or can be arranged more cheaply by taking the bus and a speedboat. Thousands of hotels and restaurants, and almost a hundred dive shops make planning your scuba adventures easier. Ko Samui and Ko Pha-ngan are recommended if your emphasis is not specifi cally on diving. However, if you especially enjoy the underwater world, Ko Tao should be your fi rst choice for learning how to dive.

Experienced divers, meanwhile, can encounter large creatures like the Whale Shark, Manta Ray, Potato Cod and so on.




Thailand - EastWhy





Thailand - EastWhy


North AndamanThe most beautiful underwater scenery and the most eclectic reef-dwelling marine life in Thailand are the two main reasons why the North Andaman region is a primary diving destination. Accessibility is convenient by means of the international airport in Phuket, which brings together divers from every corner of the world. Accommodations, restaurants and the tour agencies that throng the coase are for you Diving in the seas of North Andaman can be achieved in a day trip from Khao Lak, the most rapidly developing tourist town in Thailand. This makes diving with Mantas and sleeping in one of the most luxurious spa resorts in the world within a single day a reality. More serious divers may take a live-aboard trip, which will take you to dozens of dive sites over 4-5 days or more. You may also take a boat along the hundreds of kilometres of shoreline, passing thousands of islands from the North Andaman to the mysterious expanse of the Myanmar Sea. In short, the North Andaman is a world-class dive site.

Phuket




Thailand - EastWhy


Richelieu and Surin IslandsThere can be very few divers who have never heard of Richelieu, a world-famous site for seeing the world’s biggest fi sh: the Whale Shark. These pinnacles, which cover an area of less than 1 sq. km. can be reached on a day trip or by a live-aboard. The Whale Shark is most often found during March and April, and sometimes, as many as three can be found nearby. Amazing spectacles are always a possibility here. Richelieu also has the most abundant soft corals of any site in Thailand. Giant cuttlefi sh and groupers are always your underwater companions here. Fourteen km. to the west are the Surin Islands, with the largest and most developed coral reefs in the Andaman Sea. Although there are not so many soft corals or sea fans, other corals, fi sh, sharks and sea turtles are so plentiful that nowhere else in Thailand can compare to this thriving underwater environment. The national park has been praised as having the best resources management policy in Thailand and is used by the UNEP as a case study in world marine resources management.

The shallow-water coral reefs of the Surin Islands are beautiful and very diverse, and also suitable for snorkellers. The deep-water areas of the reef slopes are the habitat for several rare creatures, such as Ribbon Eels, Crocodile Fish, Leaf Fish and so on. To the west of the islands is Decom Rocks, a new dive site in Tha-le Thai.

Beauty ****Fauna ****Depth 10-35 m.Visibility 15-30 m.Duration 1-4 daysTime to Visit December to April onlyCost 3,000-4,000 Baht/dayService Style Day trip, live-aboardTypes of Dive Reef dive and open seaSpecial Features Whale Shark and the most beautiful coral reefs in ThailandAccess • 12 hrs. by car or bus from Bangkok to Kuraburi, Phang-nga. • Southern Bus Terminal Tel: 0 2435 1199, www.transport.co.th • By plane, 1 hr. 30 min. from Bangkok to Phuket. Thai Airways International, Tel: 02628 2000, www.thaiairways.com Dive operators can transfer you between the airport and hotels in Phuket.Contact TAT Southern Offi ce: Region 4 Tel: 0 7621 2213, 0 7621 7138, 0 7621 1036 www.tourismthailand.org




Thailand - EastWhy





Thailand - EastWhy


Beauty ***Fauna ****Depth 15-35 m.Visibility 15-30 m.Duration 1-2 daysTime to Visit: December to April onlyCost 3,000-4,000 Baht/dayService Style: Day trip, live-aboardTypes of Dive: Reef dive and wreck diveSpecial Features: The best sites for seeing Manta RaysAccess • 12 hrs. by car or bus from Bangkok to Kuraburi, Phang-nga. • Southern Bus Terminal, Tel: 0 2435 1199 www.transport.co.th • By plane, 1 hr. 30 min. from Bangkok to Phuket Thai Airways International Tel: 0 2628 2000 www.thaiairways.com Dive operators can transfer you between the airport and hotels in Phuket.Contact: TAT Southern Offi ce: Region 4 Tel: 0 7621 1036, 0 7621 2213, 0 7621 7138 www.tourismthailand.org

Ko Bon and Ko Tachai

Ko Bon and Ko Tachai are actually located in Mu Ko Similan Marine National Park, but in the past these two sites were so far away that very few divers could reach them. However, access has been much improved and today hundreds of divers per day may head out to Ko Bon in order to see the Manta, the largest ray in the world. Most divers, if visiting between December and April, are not disappointed. The chance of seeing a Manta Ray is very high and sometimes you may even see four

Ko Tachai, Phang-nga

of them on a single dive. Just to see a single Manta is an unforgettable experience. When you compare the expense, time and convenience of other sites, very few places in the world are comparable to Ko Bon. Tachai is an island surrounded by a vast expanse of sea. Underwater rocks are one of the most diverse habitats for soft corals and sea fans in Thailand. Whale Sharks and Manta Rays often visit. The beauty of the 20-metre-deep underwater rocks is a sight not to be missed.




Thailand - EastWhy


Beauty ****Fauna ***Depth 10-30 m.Visibility 10-30 m.Duration 1-2 daysTime to Visit Year-round, though best from December to AprilCost 2,500-4,000 Baht/dayService Style Day tripTypes of Dive Reef dive and open seaSpecial Features Beauty and comfortAccess • 13 hrs. by car or bus from Bangkok to Phuket. • Southern Bus Terminal Tel: 0 2435 1199 www.transport.co.th • By plane, 1 hr. 30 min. from Bangkok to Phuket. Thai Airways International Tel: 0 2628 2000 www.thaiairways.com Dive operators can transfer you between the airport and hotels in Phuket.Contact TAT Southern Offi ce: Region 4 Tel: 0 7621 1036, 0 7621 2213, 0 7621 7138 www.tourismthailand.org

Phuket, the pearl of the Andaman, is an island where travellers the world over wish to visit at least once. Phuket has everything, and its dive sites can be reached so easily, quickly and conveniently that more than 300,000 divers come to Phuket every year. Diving can be combined with other activities very easily.The Racha islands and the underwater rocks around Phuket are full of soft corals and sea fans. Sometimes more than ten Leopard Sharks can be encountered in a single dive. The dive operators on Phuket provide high standards, and the creation of a diving association has helped promote environmentally friendly activities.

Around Phuket Island




Thailand - EastWhy





Thailand - EastWhy


Beauty *****Fauna ***Depth 10-35 m.Visibility 20-40 m.Duration 1-4 daysTime to Visit December to April onlyCost 3,000-4,000 Baht/dayService Style Day trip, live-aboardTypes of Dive Reef dive, open sea and wreck diveSpecial Features The most beautiful dive sites in ThailandAccess • 12 hrs. by car or bus from Bangkok to Kuraburi, Phang-nga. • Southern Bus Terminal Tel: 0 2435 1199 www.transport.co.th • By plane, 1 hr. 30 min. from Bangkok to Phuket. Thai Airways International Tel: 0 2626 2000 www.thaiairways.com Dive operators can transfer you between the airport and hotels in Phuket.Contact TAT Southern Offi ce: Region 4 Tel: 0 7621 1036, 0 7621 2213, 0 7621 7138 www.tourismthailand.org

Similan Islands

“Similan” means nine. It refers to the nine islands that are lined up from north to south about 70 km. from the mainland. Very clear water from the Indian Ocean bathes these granite islands and, without a doubt, provides the islands with the most beautiful beaches and underwater tourist attractions in Thailand.The marine environment is well protected by the national park. The charm of the soft corals and sea fans make the area one of the top ten most beautiful dive sites in the world. It also has the greatest diversity of marine life. Many species of fi sh are found only here, and with over 100 convenient live-aboard boats ready to serve

Muko Similan Marine National Park

you, no one can deny that this archipelago is in a league of its own.The most interesting dive sites are the underwater rocks such as Shark Rock, where Silvertip Sharks are often found; this site also has a beautiful and exciting wall dive. Christmas Point is another site, and its large overlaid rocks form crevices that are full of beautiful sea fans and soft corals; it’s another world. For those who love big fi sh the choice must be Hin Pusar; its underwater rocks are at a depth of 70 metres, a very challenging site. For those who prefer something more relaxing, the soft corals and sea fans at East of Eden and Island No. 5 should not be missed.




Thailand - EastWhy





Thailand - EastWhy


Around Phi Phi Islands


Beauty ***Fauna ***Depth 10-25 m.Visibility 10-30 m.Duration 1-2 daysTime to Visit Year-round, though best from December to April Cost 2,500-4,000 Baht/dayService Style Resort Diving, day trip, and live-aboardTypes of Dive Reef dive, open sea, cave dive, and wreck diveSpecial Features Underwater limestone islandsAccess • 12 hrs. by car or bus from Bangkok to Krabi. • Southern Bus Terminal Tel: 0 2435 1199 www.transport.co.th • By plane, 1 hr. 10 min. from Bangkok to Krabi. Thai Airways International Tel: 0 2628 2000 www.thaiairways.com PB Air Tel: 0 2241 0220-5 www.pbair.com Speedboats from Phuket or Krabi to Phi Phi Islands operate several times a day.Contact Krabi Tourism Coordination Centre, Tel: 0 7562 2163 TAT Southern Offi ce: Region 4 Tel: 0 7621 1036, 0 7621 2213, 0 7621 7138 www.tourismthailand.org

The Phi Phi Islands are formed of limestone, which creates a very odd-looking geography, made famous in the movie The Beach. Rock climbing is a popular activity but the world beneath the waves of Phi Phi is no less enchanting than the mainland. You can dive alongside limestone cliffs and into underwater caves, and encounter large and small marine creatures such as Leopard Shark, Frogfi sh and Ghost Pipefi sh. Dive sites can be found almost everywhere around Phi Phi, and

they can be easily reached by taking a long-tailed boat from a beach resort. Sand dwelling animals dominate some sites; for example at Ko Yoong, seeing a dozen seahorses in one dive is quite normal. If you want more excitement, the King Cruiser wreck is one of the most famous wreck dives in the Indian Ocean. And Ko Ha Yai is a unique dive site due to the incomparable beauty of its underwater caves and strangely shaped island.




Thailand - EastWhy


Beauty ****Fauna ****Depth 15-35 m.Visibility 15-30 m.Duration 2-4 daysTime to Visit December to April onlyCost 3,000-4,000 Baht/dayService Style Live-aboardTypes of Dive Open sea and wall diveSpecial Features Ultimate South AndamanAccess • 12 hrs. by car or bus from Bangkok to Krabi. • Southern Bus Terminal Tel: 0 2435 1199 www.transport.co.th • By plane, 1 hr. 10 min. from Bangkok to Krabi. Thai Airways International Tel: 0 2628 2000 www.thaiairways.com PB Air Tel: 0 2241 0220-5 www.pbair.com • Speedboats from Phuket or Krabi to Phi Phi Islands operate several times a daily.Contact Krabi Tourism Coordination Centre Tel: 0 7562 2163 TAT Southern Offi ce: Region 4 Tel: 0 7621 1036, 0 7621 2213, 0 7621 7138, www.tourismthailand.org

Hin Muang – Hin Daeng

In the midst of the Andaman Sea and many kilometres from the mainland are located two adjacent rocks, “Muang” - Purple and “Daeng” - Red, indicating the colours of the soft corals that adorn them. There are also sea fans, large black corals, fi shes that range in size from tiny to enormous, such as Whale Sharks, Manta Rays and Great Barracudas, and small rare animals like the Harlequin Shrimp. Hin Muang – Hin

Daeng is also the best wall dive site in Thailand. Getting there is troublesome, since you must take a live-aboard boat from Phuket; however, just about everyone who visits believes it’s worthwhile. Since the site is representative of the Andaman, everything can be seen here. It is also the most gorgeous dive site in the South Andaman and one of the most gorgeous in Tha-le Thai.




Thailand - EastWhy





Thailand - EastWhy


Beauty ****Fauna ***Depth 5-35 m.Visibility 15-30 m.Duration 4 daysTime to Visit December to April onlyCost 3,000-4,000 Baht/dayService Style Live-aboardTypes of Dive Reef dive and open seaSpecial Features The secret of Tha-le ThaiAccess • 14 hrs. by car or bus from Bangkok to Satun. • Southern Bus Terminal Tel: 0 2435 1199 www.transport.co.th • By plane, 1 hr. 30 min. from Bangkok to Hat Yai, Songkhla on Thai Airways. Thai Airways International Tel: 0 2628 2000 www.thaiairways.com Contact TAT Southern Offi ce: Region 1 Tel: 0 7423 1055, 0 7423 8518, 0 7424 3747 www.tourismthailand.org

Adang – Rawee


At the southern tip of Thailand are located some remote dive sites that few people have visited. However, the beauty and diversity of the underwater world here is not inferior to others. It is one of the three most diverse dive sites in Tha-le Thai, being comparable to the Surin and Similan Islands. Adang – Rawee is also blessed with many beaches, some of which have seen no trace of humans for years. It is also an interesting historical site for both Sea Gysies, who consider the sea as their home, and for the legendary pirates of Tarutao, who were sunk for good by British troops in 1947.

Eight-mile Rock is the best dive site in the area. Apart from soft corals and large schools of fi sh, Whale Sharks and Manta Rays often visit. If the current here is too strong, you can dive at Jabang, where soft corals can be observed in shallow 5-metre waters, and if the visibility is clear and sunlit, a colourful underwater heaven will reveal itself.




Thailand - EastWhy





Thailand - EastWhy


Although Tha-le Thai is in the Asian frontline for its diving safety network, accidents can still happen. These suggestions will help you dive safely and happily.

• Always check the TAT and diving licenses of the operator.• Revise your knowledge of diving and fi nd information about the sites you will

visit.• Check weather conditions in advance with the operators or check for yourself

at websites such as www.cnn.com• Consider both the season and your own diving skills when planning your trip.• Strictly follow the instructions of dive leaders.• Understand your own physical limits and experience.• Do not fail to inform the dive leader of any irregular symptoms.

Make it Safe




Thailand - EastWhy


Tha-le Thai is not only a natural treasure of the Thai people, but also of the world. Taking good care of Tha-le Thai will preserve a unique ecosystem meaningful to both the Pacifi c and Indian Oceans. This means protecting the habitats of more than 250 species of corals, 800 species of fi sh, and thousands of other marine life forms, and allowing them to live and breed as a resource for our own offspring too. By following these guidelines, you are helping preserve one of our most beautiful seas.

• Almost all dive sites are located in national parks. The collection or killing of marine life by any means is illegal without permission from the Thai government. Breaking the law can lead to both imprisonment and/or a heavy fi ne. - The national park admission and SCUBA diving fees are used to protect Thai marine resources with the placement of mooring buoys and research etc.

• The correct way to dive is without touching; and that means anything, no matter whether it is hard corals, soft corals, sea fans, or animals of any shape or size. Admire only with your eyes. This is necessary if we wish to preserve its beauty forever.

• Do not support the consumption of marine animals such as shark fi ns or coral reef fi shes. Do not buy any souvenirs made of rare animals such as sea turtles, corals and sea fans.

• Strictly follow the instructions of national park offi cials. Inform them if you see anything amiss.

Save Tha-le Thai Links to Dive Operatorshttp://www.talaythai.com Information about Tha-le Thaihttp://www.planet-scuba.net Planet Scuba Dive Operator http://www.cabana.co.th Resort Diving in Chumphonhttp://www.bigbluediving.com Big Blue Diving http://www.siamdivers.com Siam Dive ‘n’ Sail http://www.oceandiversphuket.com Ocean Divers Phukethttp://www.seaworld-phuket.com Sea World Dive Team Phukethttp://www.fantasea.net Fantasea Divershttp://www.xsitediving.com Xsitediving and Traveling http://www.philkade.com Aquamarine Divers http://www.asia-diving.com Asia Divinghttp://www.bangkokdive.com Bangkok Divehttp://www.bluemarine-divers.com Blue Marine Divershttp://www.dive-careers-thailand.com Ko Tao Divehttp://www.dumnam.com Dumnam-Divinghttp://www.freedomdive.com Freedom Divehttp://www.offsprayleisure.com Offspray Leisurehttp://www.pandadumnam.com Panda Dumnam Diving

We h a v e m o r e e B r o c h u r e s a v a i l a b l e a t w w w. e B o o k To u r i s m T h a i l a n d . o r g .

ThailandTravel

Manual2007-2008


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Produced by Promotional Material Production Division,Marketing Services Department, Tourism Authority of Thailand for free distribution.

www.tourismthailand.org E/OCT 2007The contents of this publication are subject to change without notice.

More eBrochuresContentsThe Lost World Conserving NatureA Defensive Citadel Twin CityThe Golden AgeOnce Buried But Never ForgottenPreserving the Precious 1

World Heritage Sitesof Thailand


Lost in Green Excitement Nature Tourism Cultural and Agrotourism Meet the Tribes Code of Conduct List of Tourism Organizations List of the winners Directory of Green Leaf HotelsThailand Green Treasures, Green Paradise More eBrochuresContents 1

Green TourismProduced by Promotional Material Production Division,Marketing Services Department, Tourism Authority of Thailand for free distribution.www.tourismthailand.org E/OCT 2007The contents of this publication are subject to change without notice.

More eBrochuresContentsHoneymoon Heaven Anniversaries AboundGowns, Veils,Top Hat and TailsUnique UnionsCeremonial SplendourGoing to the Chapel 1

Weddings &Honeymoons


SIAM SQUARE RATCHAPRASONG PRATUNAM SUKHUMVIT CHATUCHAK WEEKEND MARKET SILOM More eBrochuresContentsCHAROEN KRUNG ROADCHINATOWN & PHAHURATBO BE MARKETKHAOSAN ROADSUAN LUM NIGHT BAZAAR 1



More eBrochuresContentsLop Buri Phetchaburi KanchanaburiSurinUbon RatchathaniBuri RamNakhon RatchasimaMonument to a Glorious Empire 1

The Ancient Khmer Ruinsof Thailand


More eBrochuresContentsReferences / Service Provider Studying In ThailandBird Watching Cultural Explorations Destinations Climbing DestinationsHiking (Trekking) & Camping Bungee Jumping ClimbingWhite Water RaftingCanoeing, Kayaking and Bamboo RaftingDiving & SnokellingBikingIntroduction 1

Thailandfor the Young& Adventurous


11-20 More eBrochuresContents1-10Biking Tour in World Heritage SitesMuai Thai Floating Market & Khlong Tour Gulf of Thailand Relaxing in Pai Pak Khlong Talad & YaowaratKhon, Hun LakhonLekChatuchak Weekend MarketKhaosan Road The Grand Palace 1



A GUIDE TO THAILAND’S CHIC AND STYLISH HOTELS, EATERIES, ENTERTAINMENTS, WELLNESS AND SHOPPING

More eBrochuresContentsMake it Safe Save Tha-le Thai Links to Dive OperatorsNorth AndamanThe Gulf of Thailand - WestThe Gulf of Thailand - EastWhy Tha-le Thai?Into the Blue World 1

Intothe Blue World


Golf SchoolsOther Golf Courses More eBrochuresContentsNortheastern Region Southern RegionNorthern RegionWestern Region Eastern RegionBangkok & Central RegionGolfing in Thailand 1

GolfProduced by Promotional Material Production Division,Marketing Services Department, Tourism Authority of Thailand for free distribution.www.tourismthailand.org E/OCT 2007The contents of this publication are subject to change without notice.

More eBrochuresSpecial Interests ContentsDining Shopping Entertainment and RecreationCommunication ServicesGeneral Tourist InformationHow to Get to ThailandFormalities and Other RegulationsIntroduction 1

Travel GuideProduced by Promotional Material Production Division,Marketing Services Department, Tourism Authority of Thailand for free distribution.www.tourismthailand.org E/OCT 2007The contents of this publication are subject to change without notice.

More eBrochuresContentsAway from It AllThe Eastern SeaboardThe Gulf of ThailandThe Andaman CoastSpectacular & Serene 1

Beaches & IslandsProduced by Promotional Material Production Division,Marketing Services Department, Tourism Authority of Thailand for free distribution.www.tourismthailand.org E/OCT 2007The contents of this publication are subject to change without notice.

More eBrochuresContentsAway from It AllThe Eastern SeaboardThe Gulf of ThailandThe Andaman CoastSpectacular & Serene 1

Khlong TourCruising the Majestic Waterways


Spa Directory More eBrochuresContentsLean Cuisine Spa Study Regular RejuvenationPamper Pleasures & Health MeasuresNatural WondersWhere to Enjoy a Spa Spa SeductionTime to Unwind 1

Spa & BeautyProduced by Promotional Material Production Division,Marketing Services Department, Tourism Authority of Thailand for free distribution.www.tourismthailand.org E/OCT 2007The contents of this publication are subject to change without notice.

More eBrochuresContentsTropical/Cultural Convalescence Warm Wellness Wishes DirectoryPampering Professionalism Popular Procedures Good Care Everywhere/Hospital HolidayThe Pulse of Thai Health CareHealth Tourism 1

The HealthCapital of Asia


More eBrochuresLearning to cook Thai cuisine ContentsAlternative Diets Street Foods in Bangkok Thai fruitsFusion FoodDiscover the non-Thai culinary delightsThe Amazing Thai dishesThai herbsDiscover the Thai culinary delights 1

Gourmet’s Paradise




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