Land resources and use in the Chao Phraya basin

"Over 90% of the area of the Basin is either used for agriculture or covered with forest, with the proportions of these land uses being roughly equal. Within the Basin, the largest sub-basins (in terms of area) are in descending order, the Ping, Nan, Chao Phraya and Tha Chin. The Yom and Pasak sub-basins are intermediate in size and the two smallest sub-basins are the Wang and the Sakae Krang. Agricultural land is concentrated in the southern sub-basins and ranges from 78% in Chao Phraya, 63% in Pasak and 55% in Tha Chin compared to 20 to 45% in the four northern sub-basins (Ping, Wang, Yom and Nan). The majority of forest cover occurs in the northern sub-basins where the percentage of forest ranges from 50-75% in Ping, Wang, Yom and Nan to 30% in Pasak and only 7% in Chao Phraya. In recent years there has been steady encroachment of people into forest areas for conversion to agricultural purposes while cultivated land near urban centres has been converted to residential or industrial use. The need to protect the upper catchment of the Chao Phraya basin from degradation and soil erosion has already been identified as a priority by government. Urban land use ranges from 1 to 3% in all sub-basins except the Chao Phraya where it is 10% of the total area.

Water availability is the key factor constraining future developments in agriculture in the Central Plain, being the core of diversification and of multi-cropping. Water resources are coming under pressure and their management is the challenge for the future, involving the following main aspects:


Water quantity, which governs the possible extension of second rice cropping or other field crops in the dry season, and the pressure on underground water resources through increasing sinking of wells.
Water management, which must aim at achieving greater equity and efficiency in water deliveries at the basin, project and on-farm level.
Flood control and warning where improved flood management minimises damage to crops and to physical structures in urban areas particularly.
Water quality and sustainability, particularly pollution and salinisation which can have serious effects on agricultural production.
Patterns of land use where the attainment of high water use efficiency through crop diversification is dependent on much greater local level control on water deliveries.
Woman fish vendor at Kanchanaburi market
Livestock and fresh water fisheries are also important elements of the agricultural scene in the Chao Phraya basin. They provide important additional sources of family income."

from http://www.unesco.org/water/wwap/case_studies/chao_phraya/index.shtml

Socio-economic conditions

"With Bangkok located in the Chao Phraya Sub-basin, this is economically the most important sub-basin, contributing 78.2% of the total GDP of the Basin. Sub-basins can be divided into three economic growth rate groupings:
- Tha Chin, Chao Phraya and Upper Ping with higher growth rates;
- Pasak and Wang at about the national growth rate;
- Lower Ping, Upper Yom, Lower Yom, Upper Nan, Lower Nan, and Sakae Krang with lower growth rates.
The division of the basin into prosperous north and south and poor middle is reflected in socio-economic conditions. Formal employment and social services, such as health and education, are similarly concentrated, with a generally higher per capita provision, in the Bangkok Metropolitan Region (BMR) and the Upper Ping. Considerable variation exists in the Gross Provincial Product (GPP) and economic growth rates of provinces depending on the industrial and agricultural shares in provincial (sub-basin) economies; high growth sub-basins are industrial and low growth ones are agricultural. Considerable inequalities exists in per capita income between urban and rural populations. It must be stressed that although Thailand is considered to be economically relatively advanced among developing countries, rural people are still poor, with average per capita incomes of about US$1,000 per year. Typically, there is about a six-fold difference in average per capita income between the citizens of Bangkok and the rural areas."

from http://www.unesco.org/water/wwap/case_studies/chao_phraya/index.shtml

Population in the Chao Phraya

"The Chao Phraya basin is the most important basin in Thailand. The Basin covers 30% of Thailand's land area, is home to 40% of the country's population, employs 78% of its work force, and generates 66% of its Gross Domestic Product (GDP). The total population of the Chao Phraya basin was 23.0 million inhabitants in 1996. The Basin can be divided into eight sub-basins based on the natural distribution of its river system. About 50% of this population (11.5 million) resides in the Lower Chao Phraya basin, in which the highly populated areas of Bangkok Metropolitan Area (BMA) and its environs of Samut Prakan, Nonthaburi and Pathum Thani are located. Similarly there is a large concentration of population in the Upper Ping where Chiang Mai (the second largest city in Thailand) is located. Overall, about 68% of the total population of the Basin is rural, but there is considerable variation with over 90% of the population being rural in the Upper Chao Phraya basin compared to 45% in the Lower Chao Phraya basin, It is projected in the next decade that the rural population will decrease by an annual rate of about 1.31% and that the population growth rate will remain low at about 1.0% per annum. These trends should ultimately induce aggregation of farming land with consequential increase in household incomes. Population density averages 136 persons/km2, but varies greatly from 44/km2 in the Nan Sub-basin to 533/km2 in the Chao Phraya Sub-basin. Bangkok and its vicinity have the highest population density of 1,497 inhabitants/km2."

from http://www.unesco.org/water/wwap/case_studies/chao_phraya/index.shtml

the Chao Phraya

"A view of the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok."

from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chao_Phraya_River

the Chao Phraya

"The Chao Phraya (Thai: แม่น้ำเจ้าพระยา) is a major river in Thailand, with its low alluvial river plain marking the mainland of the country.

It begins at the confluence of the Ping and Nan river at Nakhon Sawan (also called Pak Nam Pho) in the Nakhon Sawan province. The Nan and its biggest confluent, the Yom River, flow nearly parallel from Phitsanulok till Chumsaeng in the north of Nakhon Sawan province. The biggest confluent of the Ping is the Wang River which enters near Sam Ngao district in Tak province. The Chao Phraya system drains an area of approximately 160,000 km², of which the largest contribution is the Ping with 35,000 km².

The Chao Phraya runs from north to south for 372 km from the central plains to Bangkok and the Gulf of Thailand. However in Chainat the river splits into the main river course and the Tha Chin river, which then flows parallel to the main river and exits to Gulf of Thailand the about 35 km west of Bangkok in Samut Sakhon. In the low alluvial plain which begins below the Chainat dam many small canals (khlong) split off from the main river, used for the irrigation of the rice paddies.

The cities along the river are Nakhon Sawan, Uthai Thani, Chainat, Singburi, Ang Thong, Ayutthaya, Pathum Thani, Nonthaburi, Bangkok and Samut Prakan relatively.

On old maps the river is named as Menam or Mae Nam, the Thai word for river. The name Chao Phraya is also a Thai feudal title, which can be translated as General. In the English-language media in Thailand the name is often translated as 'river of kings'."

from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chao_Phraya_River

Thailand Weather 25th April

from http://www.thailand-guide.org/weather.htm

What is the best time to visit Thailand?

"Generally speaking,the best time to visit Thailand is from November to February when the northeast monsoon is blowing cool, dry air which serves as a respite from the heat. During this cool season, the temperature ranges from 18ºC to 32ºC in Bangkok, while in northern and northeast Thailand, temperatures can get quite cool with morning temperatures as low as 8º C to 12º C with the occasional 20º C day. Nights can be particularly chilly and at high altitudes the temperatures can and do drop below freezing.

The summer period, or hot and dry season, is from March to June. At this time temperatures in Bangkok average around 34º C, but can often reach 40º C with the humidity levels of 75%.

Try and avoid April, unless you plan to be permanently submerged in the ocean, because this is the hottest month across the country.

From July to October is the monsoonal season when most of Thailand's annual rainfall is accumulated. The humidity averages just under 90%, with temperatures averaging around 29º C in Bangkok.

The monsoons finish when the wind direction changes, bringing dry weather from the northeast. At best this season can be described as unpredictable and not the constant downpour of rain like you would expect. The middle months of this season may hold particularly heavy rains for the north of the country."

from http://www.travelfish.org/thailand-weather.php

What's the weather like in Thailand?

"For interactive information, please refer to our animated Thai weather map -- an interactive map to the weather situation in Thailand with detailed monthly statistics on rainfall, minimum and maximum temperature and number of rainy days in a month. Otherwise, for more detailed information, including climatic charts, please read on.

Thailand can best be described as tropical and humid for the majority of the country during most of the year. The area of Thailand north of Bangkok has a climate determined by three seasons whilst the southern peninsular region of Thailand has only two.

In northern Thailand the seasons are clearly defined. Between November and May the weather is mostly dry, however this is broken up into the periods November to February and March to May. The later of these two periods has the higher relative temperatures as although the northeast monsoon does not directly effect the northern area of Thailand, it does cause cooling breezes from November to February.

The other northern season is from May to November and is dominated by the southwest monsoon, during which time rainfall in the north is at its heaviest.

The southern region of Thailand really has only two seasons -- the wet and the dry. These seasons do not run at the same time on both the east and west side of the peninsular. On the west coast the southwest monsoon brings rain and often heavy storms from April through to October, whilst on the east coast the most rain falls between September and December.

Overall the southern parts of Thailand get by far the most rain with around 2,400 millimetres every year, compared with the central and northern regions of Thailand, both of which get around 1,400 millimetres."

from http://www.travelfish.org/thailand-weather.php

What to wear?

"For the Western visitor there is no such thing as "cool". Just cooler than "hot" and "drier than humid", so light cotton clothing is the order of the day. Don't worry about bringing too much clothing with you, as almost everything can be purchased locally, at a fraction of the price you will pay at home. Do remember that the tropical sun can be quite fierce so a hat is useful, and don't forget to use a good sun screen."

from http://www.southtravels.com/asia/thailand/weather.html

Thailand's climate

"Thailand's climate is tropical, high both in temperature and humidity, and dominated by monsoons. April and May are the hottest months of the year, when even the locals are moved to complain about the heat. June sees the beginning of the South West Monsoon, and brings with it the rainy season, which continues intermittently until the end of October.
From November to the end of February the climate is much less trying with a cooling North East breeze and a reduction in the humidity level. This is also the main tourist season, and the best time to visit Thailand.

The north and north-east are generally cooler than Bangkok in winter, and hotter in summer. In the far north, around Mae Hong Son temperatures can occasionally drop as low as 2 degree Celcius."

from http://www.southtravels.com/asia/thailand/weather.html

Capital: Bangkok

"Capital: Bangkok
Commonly called "BKK" for short. In Thai, it's called "Krung Thep" (means "The city of angels").
The ceremonial name is actually really long:
"Krung Thep Maha Nakhon Amon Rattanakosin Mahinthara Ayuttaya Mahadilok Phop Noppharat Ratchathani Burirom Udom Ratchaniwet Mahasathan Amon Phiman Awatan Sathit Sakkathattiya Witsanu Kamprasit" (Why is this so long ???)
This long name means "The city of angels, the great city, the eternal jewel city, the impregnable city of God Indra, the grand capital of the world endowed with nine precious gems, the happy city, abounding in an enormous Royal Palace that resembles the heavenly abode where reigns the reincarnated god, a city given by Indra and built by Vishnukam." by Wikipedia about Bangkok.
Looks like even for Thai people, a little difficult to remember this, a musician made a melody for this long name to sing and remember. :-)"

from http://www.thaismile.jp/e_general_info_of_Thailand.html

National Anthem

"National Anthem: Phleng Chaat ("Phleng": song, "Chaat": country)
In Thailand, the national anthem is played in public places, on TV or radio.
If you hear this song, stand still until the song finishes.
(You don't need to be bewildered (like me :-D). Just do as people do.)

Related Links
- National Anthem (Be careful ! The music will start at a moment !)
- nationalanthems.info - Thailand lyrics"

from http://www.thaismile.jp/e_general_info_of_Thailand.html

National flag

"The current national flag of Thailand was adopted on September 28 in 1917 (B.E.2460) by Rama VI (King Vajiravudh).
(Until then, the design of a white elephant on a red background had been used since the era of Rama IV.)
Like the design above, the national flag of Thailand is called "Thong Trairong"; Blue stripe in the middle, white bands up and down of it, and red stripes sandwiches them.
Those colours have important meanings below:
- Blue: The monarchy of Thailand.
- White: Buddhism
(looks like it came from white elephant that is very sacred for Thai people)
- Red: Thai people
On week days (I don't know about weekends) , the national flag is raised at 8.00 a.m. and lowered at 6.00 p.m. at public places, offices and schools mostly with the Thai National Anthem.

Related Links
- Historical Flags (Thailand)"

from http://www.thaismile.jp/e_general_info_of_Thailand.html

King and the country

"King and the country
The current king is Rama 9.
King Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX) the Great)
Even while another countries around Thailand got colonialized by England or France, Thailand kept itself independent.
(The left photo is from the factory in Ayuttaya that Queen Sirikit manages.)"

from http://www.thaismile.jp/e_general_info_of_Thailand.html

official name

"Official name: Kingdom of Thailand (Prathet Thai)
Around until 1949, the country was known as "Siam".
Then it was changed to the current name, "Prathet Thai", or "Thailand", on May 11, 1949.
"Thai" means "free" and so, "Thailand" means "Land of the Free."

from http://www.thaismile.jp/e_general_info_of_Thailand.html

History of Thailand

"Different indigenous cultures have existed in Thailand since the time of the Baan Chiang culture. However, due to its geographical location, Thai culture has always been greatly influenced by China and India as well as other neighboring cultures. However, the first Siamese/Thai state is traditionally considered to be the Buddhist kingdom of Sukhothai founded in 1238, following the decline and fall of the Khmer Empire in the 13th - 15th century.
A century later, Sukhothai's power was overshadowed by the larger Siamese kingdom of Ayutthaya, established in the mid-14th century. After Ayutthaya sacked Angkor itself in 1431, much of the Khmer court and its Hindu customs were brought to Ayuthaya, and Khmer customs and rituals were adopted into the courtly culture of Siam.
After Ayuthaya fell in 1767, Thonburi was the capital of Thailand for a brief period under King Taksin the Great. The current (Ratthanakosin) era of Thai history began in 1782 following the establishment of Bangkok as capital of the Chakri dynasty under King Rama I the Great.
European powers began traveling to Thailand in the 16th century. Despite European pressure, Thailand is the only Southeast Asian country never to have been colonized by a European power. The two main reasons for this is that Thailand had a long succession of very able rulers in the 1800s and that it was able to utilise the rivalry and tension between the French and the British. As a result, the country remained as a buffer state between parts of Southeast Asia that were colonised by the two colonial powers. Despite this, Western influence led to many reforms in the 19th century and major concessions to British trading interests. This included the loss of the three southern provinces, which later became Malaysia's three northern states.
In 1932, a bloodless revolution resulted in a new constitutional monarchy. During the war, Thailand was allied with Japan. Yet after the war, it became an ally of the United States. Thailand then went through a series of coups d'état, but eventually progressed towards democracy in the 1980s.
In 1997, Thailand was hit with the Asian financial crisis and the Thai baht was soon worth 56 baht to the U.S. Dollar compared to about 25 baht to the dollar before 1997. Since then the baht has regained some strength and currently trades around 33-35 baht to the dollar.
The official calendar in Thailand is based on Eastern version of the Buddhist Era, which is 543 years ahead of the Gregorian (western) calendar. For example, the year 2007 AD is called 2550 BE in Thailand."

from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thailand#History

Business Hours

"Government and business offices are open from 8:30 to 16:30 hours, Monday to Friday."

from http://www.mfa.go.th/web/847.php?id=16

language

"The national and official language is Thai while English is widely spoken and understood in major cities, particularly in Bangkok and in business circles."


from http://www.mfa.go.th/web/847.php?id=16

population

"The population in Thailand is approximately 62 million, of which around 6 million live in the capital city, Bangkok."



from http://www.mfa.go.th/web/847.php?id=16

climate

"Thailand is a warm and rather humid tropical country with monsoonal climate. Temperatures are highest in March and April with average temperature of 28 degree Celsius to 38 degrees Celsius and humidity averaging between 82.8 percent to 73 percent"

from http://www.mfa.go.th/web/847.php?id=16

money

"It is advisable to bring to Thailand the US dollars, Euros and other world's major currencies, which provide secure and stable rates while exchanging to the Thai Baht at any local bank or the easily available currency exchange booths. International credit cards are generally recognized as well. Traveler cheques are widely accepted, but to cash them in, one should carry a passport along.
Thailand Money
10 Baht 20 Baht

50 Baht 100 Baht

500 Baht 1000 Baht

Apropos Thai money, click on the banknote's thumbnail to see its original size. Newly designed banknotes have been introduced recently, and in effect, both new and old are in use. Use this Currency Calculator, to check the exchange rates from various currencies to Thai Baht. And for actual rates offered in Thailand click on Bangkok Bank or Exchange Rates to Thai Baht."

from http://www.th4u.com/preparations.htmthe picture

the weather

"The best overall time for visiting most of Thailand climate-wise is between November and February when it is not too wet and not too hot. The south is best visited when the rest of Thailand is miserably hot (March to May), and the north is best from mid-November to early December or when it starts warming up again in February. If you're spending time in Bangkok, be prepared to roast in April and do some wading in October - probably most challenging two months, weather-wise, in the capital."

from http://www.lonelyplanet.com/worldguide/destinations/asia/thailand/essential?a=weather

Introduction of Thailand

"The Kingdom of Thailand draws more visitors than any other country in southeast Asia with its irresistible combination of breathtaking natural beauty, inspiring temples, renowned hospitality, robust cuisine and ruins of fabulous ancient kingdoms. Few countries are so well endowed.

From the stupa-studded mountains of Mae Hong Son and the verdant limestone islands of the Andaman Sea, to the pulse-pounding dance clubs of Bangkok and the tranquil villages moored along the Mekong River, Thailand offers something for every type of traveller."

from http://www.lonelyplanet.com/worldguide/destinations/asia/thailand/

Historical Background

"There are conflicting opinions as to the origins of the Thais. Three decades ago it could be said with presumed certainty that the Thais originated in Northwestern Szechuan in China about 4,500 years ago and later migrated down to their present homeland. However, this theory has been altered by the discovery of remarkable prehistoric artifacts in the village of Ban Chiang in the Nong Han District of Udon Thani Province in the Northeast. These include evidence of bronze metallurgy going back 3,500 years, as well as other indications of a far more sophisticated culture than any previously suspected by archaeologists. It now appears that the a Thais might have originated here in Thailand and later scattered to various parts of Asia, including some parts of China.
Siam is the name by which the country was known to the world until 1939 and again between 1945 and 1949. On May 11, 1949, an official proclamation changed the name of the country to "Prathet Thai", or "Thailand", by which it has since been known. The word "Thai" means "free", and therefore "Thailand" means "Land of the Free."
from http://www.mfa.go.th/web/847.php?id=16

location

"Thailand is situated in the heart of the Southeast Asian mainland, covering an area of 513,115 sq.km. and extends about 1,620 kilometres from north to south and 775 kilometres from east to west. Thailand borders the Lao People's Democratic Republic and the Union of Myanmar to the North, the Kingdom of Cambodia and the Gulf of Thailand to the East, the Union of Myanmar and the Indian Ocean to the West, and Malaysia to the south."

from http://www.mfa.go.th/web/847.php?id=16

the water market

This picture is a state of the water market. I'm very interested in it. I want to see it and shopping there someday.

Bangkok

This is the Bankok's picture. I want to go and see them. It is very beautiful building.

the flag

"The flag of Thailand shows five horizontal stripes in the colours red, white, blue, white and red. The middle blue strip is twice as wide as the other four. The three colours red-white-blue stand for nation-religion-king, an unofficial motto of Thailand. The flag was adopted on September 28, 1917. The Thai name for the flag is ธงไตรรงค์ (Thong Trairong), which simply means tricolour flag.

The first flag used for Siam was probably a plain red one, first used under King Narai (1656-1688). Naval flags later used different symbols on the red ground—a white chakra (the Buddhist wheel), a white elephant inside the chakra, or a white disc with a sun inside.

Officially the first flag was created in 1855 by King Mongkut (Rama IV), showing a white elephant (a royal symbol) on red ground, as the plain coloured flag was not distinct enough for international relations.


1916 flagIn 1916 the flag was changed to the current design, but with the middle colour being the same red as the outer stripe. The story goes that during a flood King Vajiravudh (Rama VI) saw the flag hanging upside-down, and to prevent this from happening again created a new flag which was symmetrical. In 1917 the middle color was changed to blue, the colour for Friday, the day King Vajiravudh was born. According to other sources, the blue colour was chosen to show solidarity with the Allies of World War I, which also had the colours blue-red-white in their flags.

An interesting fact is that the flag is just like the flag of Costa Rica but with the blue and red colors inverted. Costa Rica often puts its coat of arms on it to avoid confusion from afar or in international settings."

from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flag_of_Thailand

Demographics

"Thailand's population is dominated by various Tai-speaking peoples. Among these, the most numerous are the Central Thai, the Northeastern Thai or Isan or Lao, the Northern Thai, and the Southern Thai. The Central Thai have long dominated the nation politically, economically, and culturally, even though they make up only about one-third of Thailand's population and are slightly outnumbered by the Northeastern Thai. Due to education system and the forging of a national identity, many people are now able to speak Central Thai as well as their own local dialects.

The largest group of non-Tai people are the Chinese who have historically played a disproportionately significant role in the economy. Most have integrated completely into mainstream Thai society, and do not live in Bangkok's Chinatown on Yaowarat Road. Other ethnic groups include Malays in the south, Mon, Khmer and various hill tribes. After the end of the Vietnam War, many Vietnamese refugees settled in Thailand, mainly in the northeastern regions.

According to the last census (2000) 95% of Thais are Buddhists of the Theravada tradition. Muslims are the second largest religious group in Thailand at 4.6%. Some provinces and towns south of Chumphon have dominant Muslim populations, including many ethnic Thai.[verification needed] Often Muslims live in separate communities from non-Muslims. The southern tip of Thailand are mostly ethnic Malays and they are mostly concentrated in the south, where they form a strong majority in four provinces. Christians, mainly Catholics, represent 0.75% of the population. A tiny but influential community of Sikhs and some Hindus also live in the country's cities.

The Thai language is Thailand's national language, written in its own alphabet, but many ethnic and regional dialects exist as well as areas where people speak predominantly Isan or Mon-Khmer languages. Although English is widely taught in schools, proficiency is low."

from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thailand#Demographics

Culture

"Theravada Buddhism is central to modern Thai identity and belief. In practice, Thai Buddhism has evolved over time to include many regional beliefs originating from animism as well as ancestor worship. In areas in the southernmost parts of Thailand, Islam is prevalent. Several different ethnic groups, many of which are marginalized, populate Thailand. Some of these groups overlap into Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia, and Malaysia and have maintained a distinctly traditional way-of-life despite strong Thai cultural influence. Ethnic Chinese also form a significant part of Thai society, particularly in and around Bangkok. Their successful integration into Thai society has allowed for this group to hold positions of economic and political power, the most noteworthy of these being the Thai Prime Minister, Thaksin Shinawatra, who held power from 2001 until September 19, 2006 when he was ousted by a military coup d'état.

Like most Asian cultures, respect towards ancestors is an essential part of Thai spiritual practice. Thais have a strong sense of hospitality and generosity, but also a strong sense of social hierarchy. Seniority is an important concept in Thai culture. Thais will bow to the feet of their parents or grandparents to honor them. When children leave to go to school, they bow to their parents to represent their respect for them. They do the same when they come back. In addition, the elders always rule in family decisions or ceremonies.

Muay Thai, or Thai boxing, is the national sport in Thailand and its native martial art. It achieved popularity all over the world in the 1990s. Although similar martial arts styles exist in other southeast Asian countries, few enjoy the recognition that Muay Thai has received with its full-contact rules allowing strikes including elbows, throws and knees. Association football, however, has possibly overtaken Muay Thai's position as most widely viewed and liked sport in contemporary Thai society and it is not uncommon to see Thais cheering their favourite English Premier League teams on television and walking round in replica kits. Another widely enjoyed pastime, and once a competitive sport, is kite flying.

The standard greeting in Thailand is a prayer-like gesture called the wai (see namaste). Taboos include touching someone's head or pointing with the feet, as the head is considered the most sacred and the foot the dirtiest part of the body. Stepping over someone, or over food, is considered insulting. However, Thai culture as in many other Asian cultures, is succumbing to the influence of westernization and some of the traditional taboos are slowly fading away with time.

Books and other documents are the most revered of secular objects - therefore one should not slide a book across a table or place it on the floor.

Thai cuisine blends five fundamental tastes: sweet, spicy, sour, bitter and salty. Some common ingredients used in Thai cuisine include garlic, chillies, lime juice, lemon grass, and fish sauce. The staple food in Thailand is rice, particularly jasmine variety rice (also known as Hom Mali rice) which is included in almost every meal. Thailand is the world's largest exporter of rice and Thais domestically consume over 100 kg of milled rice per person per year [14]. Over 5000 varieties of rice from Thailand are preserved in the rice gene bank of the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), based in the Philippines. The King of Thailand is the official patron of IRRI[15].

Thai society has been influenced in recent years by its widely-available multi-language press and media. There are numerous English, Thai and Chinese newspapers in circulation; Thailand is the largest newspaper market in South East Asia with an estimated circulation of at least 13 million copies daily in 2003."
the picture

from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thailand#Culture

Economy

"After enjoying the world's highest growth rate from 1985 to 1995 - averaging almost 9% annually - increased pressure on Thailand's currency, the baht, in 1997 led to a crisis that uncovered financial sector weaknesses and forced the government to float the currency. Long pegged at 25 to the US dollar, the baht reached its lowest point of 56 to the US dollar in January 1998 and the economy contracted by 10.2% that same year. The collapse prompted a wider Asian financial crisis.

Thailand entered a recovery stage in 1998, expanding 4.2% and grew 4.4% in 2000, largely due to strong exports - which increased about 20% in 2000. Growth was dampened by a softening of the global economy in 2001, but picked up in the subsequent years due to strong growth in China and the various domestic stimulation programs of Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, popularly known as Thaksinomics. Growth in 2003 and 2004 was over 6% annually.[12]

"Thailand exports over $105 billion worth of products annually [12]. Major exports include rice, textiles and footwear, fishery products, rubber, jewelry, automobiles, computers and electrical appliances. Thailand is the world’s no.1 exporter of rice, exporting 6.5 million tons of milled rice annually. Rice is the most important crop in the country. Thailand has the highest percent of arable land, 27.25%, of any nation in the Greater Mekong Subregion [13]. About 55% of the available land area is used for rice production [14].

Substantial industries include electric appliances, components, computer parts and automobiles, while tourism contributes about 5% of the Thai economy's GDP. Long stay foreign residents also contribute heavily to GDP.

The main natural resources of Thailand are tin, rubber, natural gas, tungsten, tantalum, timber, lead, fish, gypsum, lignite, fluorite, and arable land."
the picture

from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thailand#Economy

Geography

"At 514,000 km² (198,000 sq mi), Thailand is the world's 49th-largest country. It is comparable in size to Spain, and somewhat larger than the US state of California.

Thailand is home to several distinct geographic regions, partly corresponding to the provincial groups. The north of the country is mountainous, with the highest point being Doi Inthanon at 2,576 metres (8,451 ft). The northeast consists of the Khorat Plateau, bordered to the east by the Mekong river. The centre of the country is dominated by the predominantly flat Chao Phraya river valley, which runs into the Gulf of Thailand. The south consists of the narrow Kra Isthmus that widens into the Malay Peninsula.

The local climate is tropical and characterised by monsoons. There is a rainy, warm, and cloudy southwest monsoon from mid-May to September, as well as a dry, cool northeast monsoon from November to mid-March. The southern isthmus is always hot and humid. Major cities beside the capital Bangkok include Nakhon Ratchasima, Khon Kaen, Udon Thani, Ubon Ratchathani, Nakhon Sawan, Chiang Mai, Surat Thani, Phuket and Hat Yai (Songkhla Province)."

The picture

from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thailand#Geography

the basic information of Thailand

"The Kingdom of Thailand lies in Southeast Asia, with Laos and Cambodia to its east, the Gulf of Thailand and Malaysia to its south, and the Andaman Sea and Myanmar to its west. Its largest city is Bangkok, which is also one of the largest cities in the world. This is not the capitol as commonly accepted though. The actual capitol is the longest multi-word place name in the world. Spelled in English is Krung Thep Mahanakhon Amon Rattanakosin Mahinthara Ayuthaya Mahadilok Phop Noppharat Ratchathani Burirom Udomratchaniwet Mahasathan Amon Piman Awatan Sathit Sakkathattiya Witsanukam Prasit. The name roughly translates as "Great City of Angels, the supreme repository of divine jewels, the great land of unconquerable, the grand and prominent realm, the royal and delightful capitol full of nine noble gems, the highest royal dwelling and grand palace, the divine shelter and living place of the reincarnated spirits" wheras Bangkok translates as "Village of Olives" or "Village of Plums"

from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thailand

the map

Bangkok is capital of the Thailand. It is located in near the Chao Phraya River. The Chao Phraya River is very famous.

Cadogon Guides Thailand

I'm borrowing "Cadogon Guides Thailand", the Thailand guide book from Mr.Tomei. I can take a lot of information by the book. The book tell me many important things of Thailand.

the Thailand alphabet

I think that the Thailand alphabet is very unique. It seems like signs.

number

I checked that how to count the numbers in Thai. I was surprised it, because it is quite different from how to count the numbers in English. It is very natural, but I was surprised.

Thailand

The reason why I was interested in Thailand is that I like ethnic clothes. I often go to the shops where ethnic items sell.
Thailand's capitai is Bangkok. Their official language is Thai.

I checked three countries. They are Thailand, Vietnum and Jamaica. I also interested in Jamaica.

seminar 2007

Hi. My name is Yuri Honda. I'm interested in Thailand and Vietnam, so I'll check them in this class.

Writing 4: Final exam

Total posts: 76
Total words: 6824
Number of posts in September: 4,
October: 24,
November: 20,
December: 18,
January: 10,
Number of posts: 76,
about books; 11(1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11)

with links; 4,
with pictures and photos: 24,
presentations: 1 about Kumamoto
[YOU NEED TO LINK TO THE POSTS ABOUT BOOKS; TYPE THE TITLE (or number) AND LINK FROM THAT]
Number of complex posts (at least 3 links and 1 picture): 4(1,2,3,4,)
Sidebar Items: labels section?; YES
Kumamoto links section?; YES
blog links section? (including at least 2 blogs from outside your class?)
Number of comments on your blog: 9
The assignments you have done [YOU NEED TO LINK TO THEM]
The longest gap between posts (which posts, and how long was the gap): a week(from October 29 to November 5)


I enjoyed this class very much. I couldn't make blogs before, but I became make it now. In addition, I couldn't faster at writing and tiping, but I became them now. Writing class is my weak point, but I think it is very important to study English. This class was a little hard for me to study, but I can enjoying this class. because we have own blog. I was happy to renew my blog. I want to use the blog and take new informations on the blogs. I have to study more and enjoying study writing for the future. This class was very useful for me. Thank you for teaching us.

Writing 4: Final exam

Total posts: 76
Total words: 6824
Number of posts in September: 4,
October: 24,
November: 20,
December: 18,
January: 10,
Number of posts: 76,
about books; 11(1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11)

with links; 4,
with pictures and photos: 24,
presentations: 1 about Kumamoto
[YOU NEED TO LINK TO THE POSTS ABOUT BOOKS; TYPE THE TITLE (or number) AND LINK FROM THAT]
Number of complex posts (at least 3 links and 1 picture): 4(1,2,3,4,)
Sidebar Items: labels section?; YES
Kumamoto links section?; YES
blog links section? (including at least 2 blogs from outside your class?)
Number of comments on your blog: 9
The assignments you have done [YOU NEED TO LINK TO THEM]
The longest gap between posts (which posts, and how long was the gap): a week(from October 29 to November 5)


I enjoyed this class very much. I couldn't make blogs before, but I became make it now. In addition, I couldn't faster at writing and tiping, but I became them now. Writing class is my weak point, but I think it is very important to study English. This class was a little hard for me to study, but I can enjoying this class. because we have own blog. I was happy to renew my blog. I want to use the blog and take new informations on the blogs. I have to study more and enjoying study writing for the future. This class was very useful for me. Thank you for teaching for us.

drink party

I worked part-time job from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Then, I had to go to downtown to drink party. I was very tired, but I was looking forward to do it. We enjoyed very much. I went back home at 6 a.m. I slep a lot of times.

Happy Birthday to Misato!!!

January 12 is my friend, Misato's 20th birthday, so Happy Birthday!!! I became acquainted with her when we were high school students. She is very nice person. We met seijin-shiki, I want to meet her again.

Joyfull

Today, I and my friend went to Joyfull to eat dinner after school. We often go there. We talked about everything. We stayed there for 5 hours. I thought that I want to go there with her again.

Seijin-shiki

January 8, we had Seijin-shiki. We can take part in this ceremony only one time, so we were nery looking forward to it. I borrow Kimono as rental. Long sleeved kimono's color is black. I like it very much, because it is very nice and cool!! I went to Seijin-shiki with my high scoll friends. We are very good friends. We didn't enter the hall and we spent taking pictures with many friends outside hall. After the ceremony we went to downtown to eat lunch. The after the time, we went to high school. We met a lot of friends and took many pictures. In the evening, I went to junior high school alumni association. This meeting was very happy. I had very very good times today.

sleepy

I didn't sleep well from Seijin-shiki, so I want to sleep more. I'll go to hair salon today. After I'll go back home and I want to sleep.

January 6

I got up afternoon. Today, my friend will come my house, so I had to clean my room. She wated to me to rent a dress to wear in alumni association. We talked a lot of things and very good time today.

January 5

I went to post office to buy New Year's card for my father. After, I also went to downtown to make nail tips. I made it for the first time, so I got nervous. I am looking forward to take at "seijin-shiki". In the evening, I worked part-time job.

January 4

I went to downtown with my friend today, too. We wanted to many clothes, because there is taken place a many clothes, because there is taken place a sale in downtown. We looked forward to buy something. I bought 3 clothes and pierced earring. My friend also some clothes. We was very satisfied with bought clothes. I got a black scarf from her. I wanted a black scarf, so I was very surprised and very happy!!! I treated her to a STARBUCKS COFFEE. We had very good time today.

January 3

I promised to go shopping with my friend. I went to uncle's house in the morning. After, I went to downtown by a car. I and my friend bought many clothes. We went to "Jolly Pasta" that my friend's part-time works. We ate Pasta and it very delicious.

A HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

A Happy New Year!!! I wish this year also to be a good year.

December 28

I went to downtown with my friend, today. We looked for dress to wear for Coming of Age day's ceremony. Then, we went to Jolly Pasta, which our friend's part-time job place. We ate pasta and we satisfied with eat dinner. We had very good time.

Happy birthday, Yukimi!!!

Today is my friend, Yukimi's 20th birthday. So Happy Birthday!!! She and I have known each other since high school days. We are same blood tipe and we go together very much. We don't play recently, but we promise to go to Coming of Age Day's ceremony. I'm looking forward to it.

Merry Christmas!!!

Merry Christmas!!! I had very very good time with my friends. We went to "hikari no mori". I bought a one-piece and my friend bought some clothes. After the time, we went to a pub. We ate and drunk a lot. Then, we invited another friends and we went to one of the friend's house. We drunk more and we had good time.

a present

I gave a present from my mother's friend. Today, I took my friend to downtown, and after the time, I took my mother and mother's friends to a pub, so my mother's friend gave me a present. It is very cute!! Thank you, Mamechan.

a present

I bought a Christmas present for my friend. I was often treated by her, so I thought that I have to buy something. I like Stone Market, so I bought it there. I will be happy to please her.

Total words this semester: 6824

How many total posts? 76

How many posts
in September: 4
in October: 24
in November: 20
in December: 18
in January: 10

(use labels for the following)
How many posts 76
about books: 12
with links: 4
with pictures/photos: 24

How many complex posts? (at least 3 links and 1 photo): 3

Sidebar: Do you have:
a labels section: YES
a Kumamoto links section: YES
other blogs: YES
(including at least 2 blogs from other classes in the WinK community: YES )

Comments (look in your dashboard):
How many comments are there on your blog? 10

Assignments/Book reviews:

How many book reviews have you written? 12
Have you done these assignments?: YES

1. assignment 1: review (at least 3 paragraphs of at least 3 sentences):
2. assignment 2: blog post about Kumamoto
3. assignment 3: collaborative essay about Kumamoto
4. assignment 5: presentation about Kumamoto
5. assignment 6: (collaborative) movie review; or kumamoto-i wiki assignment

Other questions:

1. What is the longest gap between posts on your blog?

this morning

I met club member this morning, so we will be birthday party at lunch time!! We have to write message on a square piece of thick paper.

December 17

I went to "Diamond city Crea" with my aunt. She looks young for her age. She bought me clothes. I was very happy, so I wanted to get jeans. I thought that I will wear it a lot. Thank you, Chikachan!!

December 16

Today, our club's Christmas party took place in downtown. I bought a present. We started drinking at 7 o'clock. I didn't go to post-party party. I went to another drink party with 4 people. One of them, a person can drink a lot. He challenged me to duel of drink. I thought that I cannot be defeated by him and drank a lot of beer almost as same as him. We had very very good time. We promised to meet on Christmas and we are going to drink, again.

Scotland---book review---

I read "Scotland". I have never been there, but I became want to go there. Scotland is different from England. It is a country in a country. It has very beautiful empty hills of the north, the sea and the islands, the big cities of Edinburgh and Glasgow. In addition, Scotland people are very warm, friendly, and funny!!

My presentation

very sleepy

I went shopping with my friends, yesterday. I couldn't sleep well, so I want to sleep more and I'll go back home and go to bed early.

shopping

Today, I went to downtown with mt friends after school. I had to buy Christmas present for club member and my friend. I bought it at "Pasar" and "Stone Market". My friend bought some clothes and accessories. I wanted to buy clothes, but I didn't have enough money, so I couldn't buy them. Our club member's Christmas party take place in December 16. I'm looking forward to do it very much. I and my friends's Christmas party will take place in December 23 and 24, I'm looking forward to do it, too. Today, we ate dinner and we went back home. I had very good time.

very hard

I worked in a pub as a part-time job. Today, December 8, There were 31 people reserved from 7 o'clock. In the other hand, 5 people and 3 people reserved from 7:30 p.m, so I had to work hard. After I worked there, I went to restaurant with my part-time job's friend and we ate dinner. We talked a lot of things.

yesterday

I was sleepy yesterday, because I couldn't sleep well until yesterday. I want to sleep when I go back home soon.

very sleepy

Yesterday, I went to bed at 4 a.m, so I wanted to sleep more. However I had to go to school at morning. After school, I went to shopping with my mother and we went to ate for dinner. I went back home, I slep in a minute. I want to sleep then I go back home tomorrow.

Animals in Danger---book review---

I read "Animals in Danger". This book was easy for me to read, but I was thought that I read it. Animals make the world a richer place, a more interesting and a more beautiful place for us to live in. However, the animals in danger. A million years ago there were a lot more species of animals than there are now. Of course, some species disappear naturally, but today they are disappearing faster than before. Animals are in danger from natural accident, some animals die because of small changes in the wetaher. Animals are in danger not only the reason, but also people made new roads, move rivers, take away trees. In many countries people can also make a lot of money from animals, so they kill animals.
We have to live animals from now on, so we can help animals in danger.We change things in our world quickly, but animals change very slowly. They are all going to disappear soon - or we can help them. Our home is their home, too. We can't forget it.

Happy Birthday to Chiichan!!

December 1, today, my aunt, Chika chan's birthday!!! She is very kindness to me, so I like her very much. She and I often go to karaoke and she sings well. I want to go there, again.

Happy Birthday to Sachiko!!!

Today is my friend, Sachiko's birthday. Happy birthdat Sachiko!!! She is one of circle member. She is very nice person, so I like her. We celebrated her last week, it was very fun.

Jane Eyre---book review---

I read "Jane Eyre". This story is one woman's life. Her name is Jane Eyre. Jane Eyre had not family, so when she was small, her parents died and they left no money. She was very poor. She was taken over by a family of a relative, but she was tormented there. Jane falls into Rochester and love of the master of the house where she worked at as a tutor afterwards, but, with the aid of the clergyman whom there is after roam, it is it with a teacher of a school of the village. However, in fact, Jane understands that there was a very rich uncle, and the inheritance rolls, and Jane becamesocial position to live for easily. However, she could not unforgettable Rhester and she visited him. Rochester was blind, so the fire. He said, " you can't marry me now.", but she wanted to be his wife. Then they decided get married. She was very happy to spend with him. Then, it happened miracle!! Rochester could see quite well with one eye. He could not see enough to read or write, but he could walk the place without using a stick like a blind person. I thought wonderful that they got over difficulty and it was grown.

American Life---book review---

I read "American Life". The American whom I thought, they often eat fastfood, they live a big house, and so on until I read this book. However almost American don't like that. This book introduced to me that Americans real life. The United States of America is the fourth biggest country in the world. Most stores are open long hours every day and some never close. People usually drive to shopping center. Minneapolis has more than 400 stores. Many people eat Mexican food and there are Italian and Chinese restaurants everiwhere. Baseball is a famous sports in the USA,but it possibly started from an old English game.　However a lot of American think that it is the most American sports. Of course, I also think it. Basketball is also famous sports in the USA. It started in the USA in in the USA. It started in the USA in 1891. People play basketball evrywhere. I knew I never known American life, I read this book and felt charm more about U.S.A.

Karaoke

I went to karaoke with my friend. She sings very well, so I like listening to her sing a song. We ate a lot of foods and drinks. We stayed there about 4 hours and after, I worked part time job.

November 24

I drunk with my friends yesterday. I worked part-time job and then I went to downtown. I was tired, but we enjoyed very much. We drunk in a pub and went to karaoke. We had very good time today.

The Earthquake---book review---

I read "The Earthquake". This book's main character are Gabriel, Silvia and Marco. Gabriel loves Silvia, Silvia loves Marco. Marco is the rich, but Gabliel don't have enough money. Suddenly, the earthquake happened. Silvia loved Marco before, but she became loved Gabriel after the earthquake happened. I thought that human's heart changes easily.

shopping

Today, I went shopping to downtown with my friend. She wanted to buy boots when I and she went shopping before. At last, she got boots that she wanted to. After she bought it, we went to STARBUCKS Coffee store and drunk. After we drunk, she went to a part-time joband I went back home. I want to go shopping with her again, so she is very nice person.

adidas

I like adidas very much!! Today I went to down town with my friend and bought adidas's watch. We bought it matching watch. I was very happy to buy it.

THE MISSING COINS---book review---

I read "THE MISSING COINS". It is easy for me to read this book. This story's stage is in Bath, England. Pete and Carla like to look at the beautiful old buildinds and to walk in the little back street. They walked a little street and they stopped a man who played the flute. Carla likes his tune, but Pete doesn't like it. They went to shop that has old coins and stamps. They looked at them with interesting. However, this shopkeeper isn't friendly. They thought Carla and Pete are going to steal the old coins and stamps. Pete was interested in old stamps and he became want to start a collection of stamps. They went out the shop and went to cafe. The shopkeeper came to them and said that you stole the old stamps and coins. However, in fact, the young shopworker have stolen and gave them to flute player.

test

I had to make English test for circle member until today, because we are going to do some tests today. I could notmake a test, so I must make it from now.

Angie

I have dog as a pet. She is 9 years old. Her name is Angie. My mother named her. She is very cute, but she is often mistaken a male.

Shopping

I went to downtown with my friend after school. We often go shopping together. Today, I bought knit at wego. The friend bought denim and accessaries, so she had many money, but I didn't have enough money. I wanted to buy more.

part-time job

I worked part-time, yesterday. I worked in a pub and I like this place. People who work this place are very nice, so I can work pleasantly.

friend

November 11 and 12, I met my local friend. We are best friend and I like her very much. November 11, we drunk other four people. November 12, I and my friend went to prefecture university's school festival. We promised that to meet again.

Daikanbou

Today, I went to downtown with my friend after school. After we left, I met another friends and we rent rent-a-car, then we went to Daikanbou. It was very cold, there. We went many places and we had very good time. I want to meet them again.

SEAMO

I gave the SEAMO's CD from my friend. I like SEAMO's music, so I was very happy. He also likes SEAMO's music, but I gave it. Thank you!! Especially, I like "ANTI HERO", "kokoro no koe", and " mata aimashou". It is very good songs. Please listen them once.

Essay 3 About Kumamoto

This time, our theme is 'beaytiful landscape' in Kumamoto♪♪♪We recommend 3 best places to see nice landscape!!! These beautiful landscapes might relax you!!

First, we introduce CAMP place in MISIHARA!! The name is 'Kaze no sato camp jyo' ☆★☆This cottage's charge is so cheap and you can use anything at there!! Example, B.B.Q. sets or cooking goods or air conditioner and so on.... Above all, this land scape is really really beautiful (>_<)!! Especially, innumerable stars in the sky is sooooo beautiful★☆★　In the winter midnight, air is also very fresh!! The place is here!!

Second good place, we recommend the hill of the prayer. There is near to here. Probably this place is can see the beautiful night view and beautiful stars the nearest place. There is a this place beyond the Round1. So you need car! The hill of the prayer was very beautiful, but very cold now season. So you have to dresse in warm clothes.

Finally, we introduce a popular institution in Aso. It is Aso Farm Land!!! This place is very popular by many people. Our special driving courses are also around Aso. Aso has a lot of beautiful places in Kumamoto. Aso is most suitable to go for drive. Atmosphere of Aso is clear very much. We also want to introduce two places. Ir is Kusasenri and Daikanbou. First, Kusasenri. Students of Kumamoto usually go to Kusasenri for sightseeing by an event of a school. Second, Daikanbou. Daikanbou is my favorite place. I like this place very very much in Kumamoto. We can see very beautiful view from this place.

Our introduction is the end here. Probably, you might like these places. Please try to go there, someday. That's all. Thank you!!!

This time I worked with Atsumi Satou and Hiroko Tanaka.

November 7

Yesterday, I went back home early and went to bed. I couldn't sleep well still then, so I wanted to sleep very much. Maybe, I went to bed 10 o' clock.

Takumasai

Takumasai held in November 2 3 4. Our club sold crepe, so we had very busy for preparation it. However, we had very good time during Takumasai.

The Barcelona Game---book review---

I read "The Barcelona Game". It was very fun for me to read. THere is a girl, Holly. She likes reading books very much. She has tow brothers. They will go to see Manchester United's soccer game, so they will go to Spain. Holly was in trouble in cafe. However, a stranger, Pere helped her and she became very happy. Then Holly and her brothers enjoyed soccer game.

karaoke

I played with my friend, Yukie. We have known since high school days. We are very very good friends. We went to karaoke. We sang for 5 hours and we had dinner in hamburger steak restaurant. We had very good time. I want to play with her, again.

Kings and Queens of Britain---book review---

I read "Kings and Queens of Britain". This book told me about why there is should need a king and a queen in Britain. I have't understand it a lot before I read this book. We studied history of Britain in history classes, but we don't know detailed it. I was very interested in Britain history, so I want to know it more from now on.

Joyfull

I went to Joyfull for eat dinner with my friend. She and I often go there.We talked everything and we spent there for 4 hours. We also had good time, today.

http://pininthemap.com/pp2220a2803701eccbe

today

After this class, I will go to downtown, because I have to buy anything for school festival. We sell crepe at scool festival.

Montitti

I met my friend and gave a gift. She went to Osaka Prefecture as sightseeing of school. She gave me Montitti's key ring and Yatsuhashi. I like Yatsuhashi very much. I was very happy. Thank you, Nao!!! I also like Montitti, so I'm a fan of baseball.

October 18

I went to "Joyfull" with my part time job's friend. She wanted to talk to me about his boyfriend. I have seen him before. We had very very good time.

RAINFORESTS---book review---

I read "RAINFORESTS". In 1950, rainforests covered fifteen per cent of the Earth's land. Forty years later we have destroyed half of these. People have cut down much of Amazon rainforest to plant coffee and sugar. It is very in trouble for animals and insects. We have to stop to cut down rainforests only a few. It means that we live with natures.

Happy Birthday to Minami!!!

Today is my friend, Minami's birthday. She and I have known since elementary school days. We have taken battery in softball team in junior high school. She lives in Kagoshima Prefecture, so we can't meet easily. Someday, I'm looking forward to meet her, again.

October 19

Today, I drunk with my friends. We went to "Izayoi". We could drunk a little money. We had very very good time. After we drunk one of friend's boyfriend came to pick friend up, but I went back by bus.