MAYA BAY CLOSED !!!!

Sad news guys. As you know, on my journeys I have shared my knowledge and opinions on what I believe to be the very best places to visit in Thailand. One spot I have always recommended to tourists has been Phi Phi Leh Island which was made famous by Danny Boyle's film 'The Beach'. Since the film's release in the early 2000s, over 25 million tourists, including me have shared a moment on that famous beach, but sadly that is all about to change

The Thai beach where Leonardo DiCaprio once starred is due to close due to a large number of visitors the area receives a day. Last week, Thailand's National Park and Wildlife Department announced that Maya Bay which looks out onto the Andaman Sea would close for 4 months every year. The decision has been taken so that the area, coral and sea life can recover, which I totally respect.

So what does this mean for backpackers and holiday goers who are desperate to emerge themselves into the beautiful island and the world of film? Well, currently it has not been announced when the 4 months cool down period will be. I personally expect the period to cut the tourist season in half creating a worry in my mind of how overpopulated Maya Bay will be during the open season for tourists. A 4 month cool down period will only make the area more in demand in my opinion.

I really hope the idea works. The thought behind the idea is to protect something close to my heart, so I am going to show my full support. I have been lucky enough to visit Maya Bay a number of times, but I still have some reservations which I really hope have been considered otherwise I fear that the area will have the same issues however with a lot less money from tourists coming into Phi Phi Leh.

AEB: A guide around Thailand

My Weekend Adventure Part 1

Since I have been writing a number of blogs about wonderful Thailand, I thought that it was about time that I revisited the stunning Islands and meet with the interesting residents once again. I decided last Monday that I wanted to treat myself to a weekend getaway to rediscover my love of the country and in general have a relaxing weekend.

First I looked at some last minute holiday websites to find the best holiday deal. I did manage to find quite a cheap option because I bought my flights and accommodation separately. I was flying from Manchester early on Friday morning and was hoping to arrive before tea time so I could unpack, enjoy a hearty meal and then go out and take in some of that famous nightlife again.

Sadly my flight was delayed on the Friday. I had to wait an extra 2 hours in the main lobby so during that time I reflected on my blog site and the amazing support it has received from my readers. The wait turned out to be a great chance to plan my visit as the whole trip was a little rushed. It made me look forward to visiting some of my favourite places from my last time in Thailand.

I finally bordered my Emirates flights at around 4 am in the morning. The weather was absolutely freezing and it made it want to get in that sun a little bit more. The plane was very clean, the staff were very friendly and the film choice was right up my street. For the price I paid, I could not find one complaint with the flight which land in Thailand earlier than expected after the delays.

Guide To Fake Markets in Thailand

Not just Thailand, but Asia as a whole it has become extremely easy to purchase counterfeit goods which have branded names. Even though importing fake goods which have been trademarked is considered a crime, you can personally decide whether you want to take home a realistic fake watch that costs a quarter of the price at the risk of potentially being caught and having the goods confiscated.

Bangkok Fake Markets

If you are in Bangkok, one of the largest markets in the whole of Southeast Asia is Chatuchak Market. Also known as JJ market, there are 27 sections that sell a wide range of different things from fruit and veg to clothes. There is a total of 15,000 stalls in the market and one of the best place in Bangkok to purchase counterfeit goods such as shoes, bags, jewellery and watches.

In section 5 and 6, you will find clothes and shoes that are both authentic and counterfeit. From section 10 to 24 you will able to uncover objects such as house old goods, bags, jewellery and suits. With such a diverse range of goods, you need to make the journey. However, if you are looking for the King of counterfeit stores then look no further than the MBK shopping mall.

The mall is spread over 7 floors and is open all year round, not even closing for one day. 95% of the goods are fakes and you can negotiate prices with the stall holders. The first floor includes branded clothes for as low as £11.30 and even cheaper for sportswear. On the third and fourth floor gadgets such as cell phones, computers and iPads are available for low prices.

Pattaya

In Pattaya, there are two main markets that are famed in the area for finding replicas of branded goods. Mike Shopping Mall can be found on the main road along the coast of the city. The mall that is open from 11am to 11pm is 5 floors tall and specialises in clothing, shoes, perfumes and souvenirs. The prices are similar to the MBK store in Bangkok and if you are a skilled negotiator can get a further 20% discount.

The Night Bazaar is different to the layout of Mike Shopping Mall with the market covering a large area of Pattaya Second Road. The market is open every day and even though it is considered a night market opens at 8 am. The market is similar to what they sell with clothes, shoes, bags, technology and jewellery the main reason why tourists visit the market.

Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai also has night markets similar to Pattaya. They cover a large area of land outside of the walls of the city between Chang Khlan Road and Loi Khro Road. The market is open from 6pm to 11pm however here you will find a lot more handmade goods and local specialities such as Thai silk. However, this doesn't mean that there aren't still a huge amount of counterfeits goods such as shoes, clothes, Cds and much more.

Thailand's Watch Scandal

Over the last month, Prawit Wongsuwan simple gesture of blocking the sunlight with his arms has potentially exposed a scandal. The deputy prime minister and defence minister was seen wearing a watch and diamond ring worth around $90,000. Since it has been discovered that he has over $1 million dollars of personal assets that were all undeclared.

From Richard Milles to Patek Philippes to Rolexes, Prawit had a really good taste in watches. The scandal has however affected the image of Thailands military-led government for the worse. The deputy prime minister when questioned about where he got the watches from changed the story a few times from not knowing where they came from to borrowing them from friends.

A political scientist from Bangkok's Chulalongkorn University has since said that Prawit is a dead man walking in politics, he is on political death row. Thitinan went on to also say that this will be the fuse that sparks the end of the current government and that a change is inbound one way or another.

Even though this matter is very serious, to put a lighter spin on the situation is to wonder why he needed such expensive goods when he is the deputy prime minister of a Thailand which is renowned for great fake/replicas. If you are wondering yourself where you can get cheap Rolexs and Dre beats in Thailand read the next blog coming out guiding you around the world of markets.

Etiquette tips for Travelling in Thailand

It is easy to make a faux pas in Thailand especially when everyday things that are as simple as patting someone on the head could be frowned upon. If you are looking to travel this year read up on what etiquette is expected whilst you are in Thailand to avoid offending any of the local residents.

You should never touch anyone's head

In Thailand, a persons head is considered sacred. Something that is a simple greeting sign like patting someone on the head is disrespectful. Even touching someone else's hair is frowned upon. If you are looking to volunteer in South East Asia just be extra careful as in the UK it is second nature to put your hand on a child's head and ruffle their hair. This is not acceptable.

Always return a Wai

In Thailand, the Wai is a common and very polite greeting which involves bowing your head and keeping your hands in a praying manner. Every local you meet with will greet you in this manner so always be prepared to return the gesture whilst smiling. If you are ever greeted by a monk, you should bend from the waist with your head bowed with your hands together.

Never point

Pointing in Thailand can be seen to be very rude and even sexually suggestive. If you want someone to come over to you-you shouldn't point or shout, just simply put your hand out flat with the palm facing downwards as you wave your fingers towards yourself. Pointing at objects and buildings is also rude and you should never point whilst at a temple. If you do forget, to show you are sorry simply wai as an apology.

Be Prepared to Pay More than the Local Residents

When you are travelling around Thailand you may want to visit some of the galleries, museums and temples. You should know that some of these tourist attractions charge different prices for locals and tourists. You can try to pay the same price as the locals, but you may be straight up refused. Possibly calling in advance or going in a large group may see you receive a discount.

How Not To Get Arrested When On Holiday in Thailand

Thailand has a reputation around the world as being a drug-fuelled, relaxed country where anything goes. However, this misconception is what sees a large number of tourists arrested annually as the legal system in the country is actually very strict. Punishments in Thailand range from minor sentences like fines up to the death penalty. Let's be honest, unlike when serving time in the UK, in Asia your human rights are stripped, so to avoid time in a horrendous jail, follow these simple rules.

Respect Bhumibol Adulyadej (The King Of Thailand)

When visiting Thailand it is extremely important that you show respect to the Thai King. King Bhumibol over the last 60 years has worked to make the country better for its citizens and this has him held in the highest regards with people seeing him as the Father of Thailand. If you are found to make any disrespectful statements, deface photographs of him and/or his family or write stories that show the King in a bad light you will be arrested and face prison time.

In recent years, there have been two reporting of westerners being arrested for acts against the King. The act is known as a lese majeste law and has seen an Australian and Swiss man face time in a Thai jail. The Australian writer was arrested for writing a fictional book about the royal family whilst the Swiss man whilst drunk spray painted over photos of the King. Both served months in prison before the King himself pardoned the men and allowed them to return home.

Never Step on Money

In Thailand, your feet are considered to be the dirtiest part of the body, especially with Buddhists. The currency in the country has the image of the King, so like the last point, it is considered extremely disrespectful to use the dirtiest part of the body to deface the King's image. It can be as simple as dropping a coin and using your foot to sweep the money up, this is an offence that brings jail time. A German man once in an argument with locals stamped on the currency and was swiftly arrested.

Say No to Drugs

With how the nightlife and Full Moon parties are portrayed, you would believe that a booze and drug-fuelled night was acceptable in Thailand. This couldn't be further from the true in 2017 with police targetting tourists who are bringing a bad reputation to the country. Even though locals and westerners may try their luck on the beaches, it really is not worth the risk as drugs like marijuana which are legal in some countries will get you arrested.

For taking drugs in Thailand, you may not receive the most severe punishments that their legal system has in place with a light sentence of a few months normally handed out. However, if you are caught dealing the drugs, you are likely to receive the death penalty. Yes that serious, so don't head over to Thailand next summer for the Full Moon parties looking to make a few extra quid as the risks are not worth the rewards.

Do Not Overstay Your Welcome

Like with drug control, Thailand has become much stricter about how long people are staying in the country over the Visa. If you stay in Thailand past your immigration stamp date you are illegally in the country which we see you arrested, put in jail and incarcerated until your court date. Currently, most tourists are overstaying their welcome and are not getting caught until at the airport. If you are at the airport trying to leave the country you will be charged 500 THB (£11.44) for each day longer you stayed,

For any reason, you don't want to leave the country and want to avoid the police you can make a run for the Cambodian border. The journey takes around 6 hours and costs around 2100 THB (£48.04). You can then re-enter Thailand at the border and avoid charges and the police. This is the last resort as you really do not want to visit a Thai prison.

Travel Guide

Not getting arrested in Thailand is mostly common sense, which is why the figures of westerners getting arrest are so staggering. As long as you show respect, avoid drugs and follow the immigration laws, you will be just fine. If you would like more information about travelling around Thailand, be sure to check out this Top 11 Reasons to visit Thailand travel guide which will help you plan activities that will keep you out of Thai jails.