GREAT Info/Background on BURIRAM

[Admin]

Tourism in Thailand is a major economic factor of Thailand.

History of the tourist industry in Thailand.

   The tourism industry in Thailand received a boost when American Soldiers came to thailand for R&R ( Rest and Relaxation ) in the late 1960's and early 70's pausing from the Vietnam War.
   It was the year 1982 ( 2525 ) that tourism made an impact in Thailand , when world tourists descended on Thailand , because that was the year Bangkok celebrated it 200th anniversary ( bicentenary ). It was also the year Kho-San Road was established for low-budget travellers ( Backpac Kers ).

   Modern times – In 2005 , 13.38 million international guests visited Thailand , a 14.8 % increase on 2004 staying an average 8.1 days.
   According to the Tourism Authority of Thailand , 65% of tourists come from Asia Pacific region , Japanese , Koreans and Malaysians among the leaders. Western tourists come from Britain , Germany , Scandanavia and North America and increasing numbers arrive from the middle-east. Asian tourists prefer Bangkok and the historical sights nearby , western tourists prefer Bandkok and the Southern beaches. The region having very little tourism is Isaan in the northeast.
   About 55% of tourists are return visitors.


The present day.

   In recent times Thailand has been losing out on tourists seeking caltural destinations , many of whom prefer Cambodia ( Angkor Wat ) and Laos ( Luang Prabang ). To counter this Thailand is seeking more niche markets such as golf holidays , or holidays combined with medical treatment such as plastic surgery. ( Medical tourism ). These are especially aimed at Japan and South Korea and in the future China.
   Thailand offers a great variety of attractions which can be combined with hobbies or leisure. This includes dive sites , sandy unspoilt beaches , hundreds of islands , archaeological sites , museums , ethnic and religious sites , world Heritage sites and also the honeymoon resort of Trang.
Medical Tourism , the future ?

   Medical tourism is a growing segment of Thailand's tourism and health-care sectors. Lower staff costs translate into significant cost saving on procedures compared to hospitals in North America , and a higher , more personalized level of nursing care than westerners are acustomed to receiving in hospitals back home. Over one million people per year travel to Thailand for everything from cosmetic ( plastic ) surgery to cutting edge cardiac treatment. In 2005 , one Bangkok hospital took in 150,000 treatment seekers from abroad. In 2006 , medical tourism was projected to earn the country 34.4 billion baht.

   One patient who received a coronary artery bypass surgery at Bumrungrad International hospital in Bangkok said the operation cost him u.s$12,000 , as opposed to the $100,000 he estimated the operation would have cost him back in the states.

   Also a retired English resident of Muang Buriram had recontructive surgery to his shoulder at the local government hospital. That cost him
8,000 baht. Back in the U.K you would be put on a waiting list for years , and if you went private it would cost you at least 250,000 baht.

   Hospitals in Thailand are a popular destination for other Asians. Another hospital that caters to medical tourists , Bangkok General Hospital
has a Japanese wing and Phyathai hospital Group has interpreters for over
22 languages , besides the English-Speaking medical staff.

   English is widely spoken in Thailand , one reason why it is such a popular tourist destination. Bumrungrad International Hospital makes much of the fact that many of it's staff are accredited in the U.K , Europe and North America. The origins of the U.S medical system are British , with the American Medical Association  acknowledging that Manchester Physician Dr.Thomas Percival is responsible for modern medical ethics , and even founder of Harvard University , John Harvard , was born in Southwark , London. The modern Thai medical system shares in this Anglo-U.S inheritance , as Prince Mahidol of Songla , the king's father ,
earned his MD degree from Harvard Medical school in the early 20th Century. It was also at this time the present king Rama IX was born in 1927. Prince Mahidol and another member of the Thai Royal family paid for an American medical education for a group of Thai men and woman. Prince Mahidol also convinced the Rockefeller Foundation to provide Scholarships for Thai Citizens to study medicine and nursing. Funds from the Rockefeller Foundation were also used to help build modern medical Eraining Facilities in Thailand. The men and women who studied medicine and nursing as a result of Prince Mahidol's efforts became the first educators for the modern Thai medical system.

   Thailand has a modern infrastructure , with clean safe streets. Thailand offers everything from cardiac surgery to organ transplants at a price much lower than the U.S or Europe , in a safe , clean environment.


Buriram Province.

   The picture in the seal is the stone temple of Phanom Rung. The dancing angel might illustrate the meaning of the city which means the 'pleasant City'.

   Buriram is a large province with a small provincial town and a long history. Centuries ago , this province was part of the khmer empire , and for almost 400 years extended from Ankor in Cambodia to the North-east provinces. Today it's ancient sanctuaries and ruins provide some of the finest examples of Khmer art in Thailand.

   Buriram ( Town of pleasantness ) is the main town ( thesaban mueang )
in Buriram Province , which is approximatly 410 km Northeast of Bangkok and also 376 km by train.

   The town is located on the northeastern railway line , and also has a regional airport , Buriram Airport which is located 35 km from Buriram town heading towards Satuk. Much of the local economy is still agricultural and the tourist industry that is a prominent feature in much of the rest of the country has yet to make a Significant impact. Key agricultural crops include rice and cassava. The main languages spoken in Buriram are central Thai , Lao , and Khmer 1.6 million people. Buriram town has a population of
about 30,000 people. A census was taken in 2006 on how many farang's ( westerners ) lived in Buriram and that total came to 850 people.
( probably retiree's ).


Travelling to Buriram.

   There are a number of ordinary and air-conditioned buses running from Mo-chit bus terminal ( bangkok ) and Buriram. There is a number of different bus companies running buses to and from Bangkok , ranging from 250 baht to 325 baht single , depending on which bus company you decide to go with. There is also a service to and from Pattaya which uses a double-decker scandia modern air-conditioned bus which is first-class. You can't miss it because it is bright yellow in colour. Travelling by train there is a choice of several types of trains , ranging from ordinary trains and  air-conditioned trains to diesels , rapid or express trains. Buriram train station is located near the clock tower fountain in the centre of town. Also make sure you book inadvance.

   And for faster travelling , PB air offers a service daily to and from Bangkok , which only takes 30 minutes. Very convenient if you don't want a 7 hour journey by bus or a train ride for 6 hours.

   Which ever way you decide to travel to Buriram the journey is worth it with it's freshair and it's relaxed lifestyle. And don't forget the unique cuisine. Try it !







Buriram Airport. ( BFV )

   Buriram Airport is a domestic airport serving Buriram province , situated 35 km from Muang Buriram heading north towards Saturk.Getting from the airport to Muang Buriram is a minor problem because there is no bus service , but don't worry as the firecrew at the airport double-up as taxi drivers. Journey takes about 25 minutes and costs 500 baht.

Airport type – Public
Operator – Airport of Thailand Public Co Ltd.
Evelvation – 590 ft ( 179.8 m )
Runway Length – 2,100 metres – Surface = Asphalt.
PB Air  ( 9Q – Bangkok – Buriram )

   PB Air is a regional airline based in Bangkok. It operates scheduled domestic and international services. It's main hub is at suvarnabhumi Airport Bangkok.

   Fleet – 2 Embraer ERJ 145LR. ( which flys to Buriram ).
         1 Dornier 328.

( Domestic Services ) * Bangkok – Buriram , Lampang , Mae Hong Son , Nakhon Phanom , Nakhon Si Thammerat , Nan , Roi – et and Sakon Nakon.
( International Services ) * Da – Nang ( vietnam ) and Seoul ( S.Korea ).












History of PB Airlines.

   The airline was founded in 1990 by Dr.Piya Bhirom – Bhakdi the president of Boonrawd Brewery ( the makers of Beer Singha ) the biggest brewery in Thailand and the most famous. But they don't serve beer on board domestic flights. Unbelievable !

   It was originally used for flights for the brewery staff only. In 1995 it received the licence to offer charter flights and started operations in 1997. In February 1999 it started scheduled flights. On the 3rd of December 2005 was the date of the inaugural flight from Bangkok to Buriram.

   *Daily service – Bangkok ( BKK ) departs 13:10 – Arrives Buriram
( BFV ) 14:05 Return flight – Buriram ( BFV ) departs 14:25 – Arrives Bangkok ( BKK ) 15:20.

Bangkok to Buriram – one way - 1,705 baht
                      - 3,420  + Tax.

PB air ( Bangkok office ). Head office – sukumvit 33 just along from the Londoner pub and restaurant.
Reservation and ticketing.   Mon – Fri -0830 – 1700.
               Sat – 0900 – 1200.
E-mail – Sales@pbair.com
Telephone – 0226102205
Fax No. - 022610227

PB air ( Buriram office ) - Everyday working hours 8:30 – 17:00
E-mail – 9QBFV@pbair.com.
Telephone – 044-680-132-3
Fax No. - 044-681-533.

   Or visit – www.pbair.com
Travel agent in Buriram – Miles away Travel agent located behind the bus station.               

Tour Attractions in Buriram.

   The major tourist attraction in Buriram is
Phanom Rung historical Park. Prasat Hin Khao Phanom Rung is a Khmer temple Complex , built from Sandstone in the 10th Century Located about
75 km's from Buriram Town on the road between Nang Rong and Prakonchai.

   Phanom Rung was built on top of a hill which is believed to be an extinct volcanic cone , 1,320 feet above sea level. Archaeological and historical studies show that this place was originally built to worship shiva , the Hindu God between the 10th and 13th Centuries with the bulk of the work being completed during the reign of King Suriyavaraman II. The site was in a state of disrepair and neglect in the early 20th Century , then in 1971 Thailand's Department of Fine Arts spent 70 million Baht and 17 years restoring the complex to it's original state. Finally completing it for it's reopening on the 21st May 1988 , officially opened by Princess Maha Chakrisirindhorn. It is now one of the most famous attractions in the Northeast of Thailand. In 2005 the temple was submitted to UNESCO for Consideration as a future world heritage site.


The lintel of the God Vishnu.

   One major art piece is the stone lintel of the God Vishnu which once disappeared from the complex in the early 1960's. There was a suspicious helicopter heard in the area by the villagers about this time. Even more peculiar , the four administrators of the complex at the time have all met misfortune and mysterious ends since the stone lintel disappeared. It could be the curse of the lintel , so the locals call it.
   The story has a happy ending when in March 1973 the lintel reappeared in the lnstifute of Chicago in America. “The lintel had been donated by a James Alsdolf. The Thai government and many private sectors tried for many years to return the lintel back to it's place. Finally a price was negotiated $250,000 , and in November 1988 the lintel was returned and placed in it's original position.
Architecture.

   After a steep three – leveled lower stairway and a rocky mound , the visitor finds himself on the first cruciform platform with a first glimpse at the main temple. This is when the visitor gets a sense of eerieness of being taken back in time. On the right , northward is Phlab Phla or the white Elephant House. The pavilion is believed to be the place where Kings and the royal family would change attire before rituals. Royalty would then enter the processional walkway  one of the most impressive elements of the park. It is 160 meters long and bordered by seventy sandstone posts with tops of lotus buds. The walkway itself is paved with laterite blocks.

   The walkway leads to the first of three naga bridges. The five – headed snakes face all four directions and are from the 12th Century. This bridge represents the connection between heaven and earth. The naga bridge leads to the upper stairway , which is divided into five sets. Each set has terraces on the sides. The last terrace is wide , made with laterite blocks. It has a cruciform shape and four small pools. A couple more steps lead to the second naga bridge. It has the same shape as the first one , only smaller.
In the middle the remains of and eight petalled lotus carving can be seen.

   The bridge leads you directly into the main sanctuary. After the antechamber and annex , one reaches the principal tower. Double porches lead out in all directions. The inner sanctum used to have the “linga” , the phallic symbol of Shiva. Currently , only the “somasutra” remains which was used to drain water during religious rites. The entrances have various stories the dancing shiva and the five Yogi's. The southern entrance is guarded by a sandstone statue.



Festivals held on the site.

   Phanom Rung Festival is held annually in April to commemorate the restoration of Phanom Rung. The activities include the procession up Phanom Rung hill , sound and light presentations and dances are performed. It also coincides with at sunrise usually , in the first week in April. A special occurance happens when at dawn at a special moment the sun shines through the main corridor and produces and unique sight.

   There is also the Phonom Rung Fun run ( mini-marathon ) held every year in December.


Prasat Hin Muang Tam.

   Muang Tam is a stone temple located near Prakhon Chai. It's about
5 km's from Phanom Rung national park. King Jayavaraman II was responsible for this magnificant premises made up of five ancient 'Prangs' set around four lotus ponds and enclosed by a laterite wall.

   All in all with two magnificent well kept sites only 5 km's apart , It is a wonderful day out which you will never forget.














Other Tourist attractions in Buriram.
Khao Kradong Park and Phra Suphattha Bophit.

   Phra Suphattha Bophit is a Buddha image on Kradong hill about 6 km's from the provincial township. There is also the replica of Lord Buddha's footprint enshrined in the temple.

   Khao Kradong Park is also located 6 km's from the town of Buriram on the Buriram Prakhonchai road. The image of Buddha can be reached by two ways , bye car on a concrete road which Snakes around an extinct volcano. Or on foot by a stairway which climbs to a level of 265 meters above sea level. Also there is the Bunyanusat Boy Scout Camp and smill zoo , the location is ideal for picnics and family relaxation.


Huai Talat Reservoir and bird sanctuary        is located about 10 km's along Buriram-Prakhonchai Road in sakae sum subdistrict. The reservoir holds water the whole year round.


Buriram local Arts and Crafts Center    is located opposite the Surin Provincial Army Headquarters on the Buriram crossroads from the Buriram-Prakhonchai Road in Samet subdistrict.



The Buriram Culture Center   is located on the campus of  Buriram Ratchabhat University. It is the center for the collection and display of artifacts and works of historical value as well as a research source for local history , archaeology and arts.






Amphoe Ban Kruat.

   Ancient Quarry is the site where the ancient khmer people used to obtain rocks to build sanctuaries in the lower northeast side. It is near Khao Kloi and Khao Krachiao , adjacent to the Thai-Cambodian border , 7 km's from Kruat on the Ban Kruat-Lahan Sai Road and 3 km's from the main road.

   Tao Sawai and Tao Nai chian Ancient Kilns are located 5 and 10 km's away from Amphorae Ban Kruat. The kilns had been used in the production of glazed pottery during the period of khmer dominance in this area , about the 9th to 10th Centuries AD.


Lam Nang Rong Dam.   
   This earth dam with it's concrete base , is located in Lahansai district. It is a recreation site for local people and visitors.


Prang Ku Suan Tang.
   This “Ku” or small khmer style stupas are located in Phutthaisong district. The stupas are built of brick and mortar. The door panels are carved showing the story of Ranmayana.


Northeastern Kite Festival.
   The Festival is held annually in the Muang district in December.
A beauty contest and an Aek Kite Competition are scheduled.
Aek kite ( ancient yoke shaped kite ) when flown in the air looks like two kites attached to one another.


Boat Racing.
   Boat racing in Satak district is also a popular festival. This colourful festival occurs annually.


Where to stay in Buriram? ( Accommodation ).

   145 rooms The Thepnakorn Hotel is the premier hotel in Buriram Town. The hotel offers guests rooms of all different standards from 700 baht for a single room to 4,200 baht a night for the deluxe suite. The Thepnakorn Hotel offers a wide range of facilities such as , conference centre , Thai traditional massage , Lobby bar , Beer garden , Spa and Fitness room , Restaurant which serves western and Japanese cuisine to a high standard , Snooker club , Karaoke lounge , a swimming pool and a large Otop souvenir shop.

Thepnakorn Hotel.
139 Moo 3 , Tambol E-sarn , Muang District , Buriram.
Thailand 31000.
Tel – 016134002
E-mail – www.thepnakorn_hotel.com.



   72 rooms The Vongthong Hetel is a 30 year old hotel located in the heart of the town. The hotel offers visitors standard rooms at 650 baht a night to 1,250 baht a night for the V.I.P. Room. The hotel has a restaurant , Conference room , karaoke V.I.P , Pub Bar , Snooker and pool hall and a large traditional massage room. All in all it's tranquil and very quiet.

Vongthong Hotel.
512 / 1  Jira Road , Muang , Buriram 31000.
Tel – 044612540.








Sporting Facilities in Buriram.

   Khao Kadong Golf club offers visitors and quests two rounds of
a 9 hole golf course for 300 baht plus a caddy.

   Aslo in Buriram. Buriram is renowned for it's high standard of Muay thai boxers theg produce. Boxing camps are located all over Buriram province.
   If your into blood sports. Buriram is famous for it's cockfighting. Small stadiums are built in the tambons through out the province. But you have to ask the locals where to go.


Shopping Facilities in Buriram.

   Buriram has the Taveekit Super centre which offers customers food shopping , cloths shopping , Telephone and electronic centre , a watson's , KFC  fast food , and coffee shops. But within a year the Taveekit Super centre will be overshadowed by the new Big C shopping centre and Makro shopping which are opening in early 2008.

   For local cuisine try the Night Bazaar located near the moat. For souvenir shopping the best is the OTOP shop situated at the Thepnakorn Hetel.


Emergency Call.

      Tourist Police – 044 - 611234
      Emergency – 191
      Buriram Hospital – 044 – 615001

   Enjoy your stay in Buriram.