PREFACE Bangkok, capital of Thailand is also known as the Land of a Thousand Smiles. Centrally located in the heart of Asia, Bangkok is capable of supporting major Conferences, Exhibitions and unique Incentive travel experiences With nearly 400 temples and fabulous shopping centers, palaces and enchanting teakwood mansions; world-renowned hotels known intimately by the rich and famous for many, many years. However, on this occasion, luxury does not come with a high price tag! .... The improving transport system, whether it is the distinctive 3 wheel Tuks Tuks or the latest Mercedes Benz zooming along the new expressways; or the long-tailed boats and teakwood barges which cruise along the Chao Phraya-Bangkok's River of Kings, we can even arrange a police escort to lead you around town in true VIP style. Tradition and culture form the basis of Bangkok life and it is the experience of these unique cultures in a modern environment that forms the basis of the proposed themes and activities for this Incentive, Conference and Corporate Meeting Planner. JOSEPH CHAN PRESIDENT BANGKOK - THAILAND Just a few decades back, shopping in central Thailand (including Bangkok) was conducted principally along the canals (or Klongs in Thai). The Bangkok waterway network was so extensive that the city was called the Venice of the East by European visitors. Meanwhile, most Klongs in Bangkok have been filled and paved over. But one can still find floating markets in the southwest of Bangkok (the Thonburi side), mainly along the Mae Klong River (the Mother of Klongs River which itself is indeed a river and not a Klong or canal). At these markets, sometimes hundreds of vendors' boats crowd the water surface. An exhilarating ride on narrow long-tail speedboats through the marshes prepares you for the unique floating market. Everything is sold here from vegetables and fruits to kitchen utensils or freshly cooked noodles. THE GRAND PALACE The Grand Palace should be the first destination on any visitor's itinerary. It is a huge compound with entrance on Na Phra Lan Road near Sanam Luang, surrounded by high white walls and occupying an area of about 260 hectares (2.6sqkm, 1sqmi). The Grand Palace is one of the most spectacular examples of an ancient Siamese court. Built by King Rama l in 1782, it was the center of power for more than 150 years. Today it is a landmark. The palace consists of several buildings with highly decorated architectural details. The Royal Chapel, Wat Phra Kaeo, which is in the same compound, houses the Emerald Buddha, the most sacred Buddha image in Thailand. Photography is forbidden inside the building housing the Emerald Buddha. See the interior chambers such as the Throne Room and the Coronation Hall. TEMPLES IN THE CITY In Bangkok, since 95% of the population are Buddhists, there are approximately 400 wats (wat means temple) in Bangkok. The Temple of the Golden Buddha (Wat Trimitr) houses a solid gold statue weighing 5.5 tons. For 2,000 years the statue was covered in stucco until a recent accident which cracked the stucco and revealed the priceless treasure underneath. Closeby to chaotic Chinatown is the Reclining Buddha at Wat Po, an enormous Buddha image completely covered in gold leaf. The Marble Temple at Wat Benchamoborpit is a fine example of Thai architecture built from white marble. CHIANG MAI Chiang Mai, located in the north of Bangkok makes a perfect backdrop to a memorable and unique event. Hills, mountains, forests, jungles, rivers and waterfalls as well as colorful hilltribes who follow independent lifestyles are all features in picture postcard landscapes which present refreshing contrasts to both the city and the beach resort. ELEPHANT SAFARI For most people, a trip to Thailand could not be considered complete without getting up among the jungle treetops, riding high and swaying gently on the back of an elephant. The Chiang Dao Elephant Conservation Center is one of the best places to meet and ride these loveable giants. KANTOKE DINNER The "Kantoke" is a traditional northern Thai-style dinner. The meal comprises of a series of dishes served in small bowls on small round khantoke tables with diners normally in-groups of four seated on special cushions. This evening guests will be able to experience authentic Thai cuisine while watching a cultural show. Local hilltribe folks will perform a series of traditional dances such as the finger dance "Forn Lep", a skillful sword dance, candle dance "Frontien" and the classic "Ramwong"- a Thai folk dance. Each will be introduced by a brief explanation of the story conveyed in the dance. DOI SUTHEP AND HILL TRIBE VILLAGES The Doi Suthep Temple is to Chiang Mai what St Peter's Cathedral is to Rome. Doi Suthep is regarded as the most sacred temple in northern Thailand, located high on Doi Suthep Hill 3,520 feet above the sea level overlooking Chiang Mai. There are approximately 20 different hilltribes living in the region surrounding Chiang Mai. Culturally each hilltribe is distinctively different having its own language and customs. You will have the opportunity to visit one of the major hilltribes where a warm welcome awaits you in the traditional tribal way!