This is the second part of an article on the subject of the World Wide Web ("WWW") Privacy Policy. While part one focused on broad-based WWW privacy issues, part two will discuss specific guidelines for preparing and implementing a company's privacy policy as well as the specific requirements that have been mandated by the recently passed Children Online Privacy Protection Act of 1998.
GUIDELINES FOR DEVELOPING AND MAINTAINING YOUR WEB SITE'S PRIVACY POLICY
The most effective way to establish a privacy policy is to make certain that it specifically addresses (1) all the important privacy and legal issues, (2) your company's specific business requirements, (3) the privacy concerns of your web site visitor and (4) is written in a manner so that it "works" for your targeted audience.
The process for creating a privacy policy is very similar to the preparation of any other marketing and sales business policy that is developed for your company as it will require the across-the-board support from management, marketing and sales, and information services.
The first step in developing the privacy policy should be an audit of what is currently being done on your site with respect to the collection, use and dissemination of information. The audit and subsequent analysis must include a review of (1) where and how information is collected at different locations on your site; (2) what happens to the information once it is collected, - some of the issues that must be addressed include: "Who receives it?", "Is it combined with other data?", "Who has access to the information?", "How is the information currently used?, "How will the information be used in the future?"; (3) a review of any privacy statements that may already exist on the site and (4) an analysis of any special privacy policy requirements that may exist as a result of the type of information being collected at your site or because of the specific industry you are in.
Step two involves an evaluation of your company's objectives. The primary focus during this step should revolve around the purpose of the web site and the current and/or planned uses for the collected data.
The third step results in the formulation and preparation of your company's privacy policy. This is the stage where decisions are made regarding the type of information that will be collected and how this information will be used. During this stage many technical questions involving the design of the site and the data structure will be raised and it becomes very important to make certain that the company's privacy policy and the site's technical requirements are compatible. An important decision that should be addressed during is whether to join a privacy seal program such as "TRUSTe" or "BBBOnLine".
Step four then proceeds to designing writing the company's privacy policy that will appear on the web site. The primary model for developing an information privacy policy has been one that was promulgated by the FTC and has subsequently been adopted by other online organizations. This model permits consumers to participate in decisions regarding the collection, dissemination and use of their personal information and is combined with the knowledge that this information is being collected within a framework that provides for the security and integrity of the collected data. The elements of this "Fair Information Practices" model includes (1) "notice" the privacy policy should be easily found on your site and should clearly state the practices that are involved in collecting, using and disclosing information before any such information is collected; (2) "choice" or "consent" this applies when the information that was collected for a primary use will subsequently be used for another purpose and such secondary use requires the consumer's consent; (3) "access" this means that the consumer will have access to his/her information and the ability to correct any errors in the data or to delete the information; (4) "security" web sites should protect the security of the information and take steps to protect it from being altered; and (5) "enforcement" this is the heart of a self-regulation model and it requires that the privacy policy and its principles are enforceable for it to be effective.
The fifth and sixth steps involve the implementation and maintenance of the privacy policy. These steps may require (1) the development of company training programs to ensure that the company's employees understand the importance of the privacy policy and the pitfalls that may result from the wrongful disclosure of a consumer's personal information; (2) a review of third party contracts especially as they relate to privacy issues; (3) the development of a policy for third party links and frames that informs the visitor to your web site that they are no longer protected by your company's privacy policy; and (4) a policy whereby senior management approves any web site changes and information collection practices that may have an impact on the company's privacy policy.
CHILDREN ONLINE PRIVACY PROTECTION ACT OF 1998
The Children Online Privacy Protection Act of 1998 ("COPPA") that was recently passed will go into effect on April 21, 2000. The FTC will be responsible for enforcement of COPPA. COPPA requires a privacy policy for those sites that target children and/or have actual knowledge that children come to the site and such site collects "personal" information from children. Children as defined by COPPA are those younger than 13 years of age. COPPA strictly limits the way the site can gather or use such information. The passage of COPPA means that a privacy policy is no longer an option for any web site that targets children. Instead, it means that any such web site must have a fully functional and operational privacy policy that meets the requirements specified in COPPA on it web site no later than April 21, 2000.
The COPPA regulations only apply to the collection of personal information. The FTC rules have distinguished between "personal" and "general" information as follows: personal information includes the name, address, phone number, e-mail address, and any other information that may be used to locate a child online or offline while general information includes such things as hobbies or preferences.
Under COPPA the web site must: (1) provide notice on the site of the information it collects, how such information will be used, and under what conditions the information will be disclosed; (2) obtain verifiable parental consent to collect, use and disclose any information; (3) provide means by which a parent can review the information that has been collected; (4) initiate a procedure whereby a parent can refuse to permit the use of their child's information and also permits the parent to delete the information from the web site's database; (5) restrict the amount of information collected to only that which is necessary to participate in activities on the site and (6) establish and maintain web site policies and procedures that will ensure and protect the confidentiality, security and integrity of the information that has been collected.
COPPA also applies to "banner advertisers" if the advertiser has advertising on a site that is directed to children and/or is knowledgeable that information is being obtained from children.
Although COPPA does not go into effect until April 21, 2000 web sites and advertisers who target children and/or are knowledgeable that children visit their site should begin developing procedures and policies to comply with COPPA's provisions. One difficulty in implementing such a policy and/or procedures is the newness of COPPA and the fact that there currently does not exist any precedence to serve as guidance. Therefore, it would probably be advisable for web sites and advertisers to consult with legal counsel in preparing a privacy policy that meet the COPPA regulations and FTC guidelines
ADS
Tuesday, March 27, 2007
Internet Legal Issues: WWW Privacy Policy -- Part I
INTRODUCTION
As we enter the new millennium the World Wide Web ("WWW"), because it collects and disseminates personal information, significantly impacts many personal privacy issues and concerns. One major concern of privacy advocates is that when one travels the WWW from one site to another is not the fact that they knowingly leave personal information at particular sites but that they also leave information at sites without their consent. The collection of personal information will continue to expand as the WWW grows in importance and as a greater number of individuals begin to use and purchase products and services from electronic commerce sites, commonly referred to as "e-commerce sites". For many e-commerce sites it may no longer really be an option to have a "privacy policy" because in reality a privacy policy may already be obligatory or an essential condition for successfully competing in e-commerce.
Developing and implementing a personal privacy policy for the WWW should be a relatively straightforward matter for those sites that collect personal information from visitors. This policy should let the visitor know how and why the site collects the information, how the site plans to use the information and whether this information will be disclosed to third parties. Despite the apparent simplicity involved in developing and implementing a privacy policy there have already been many examples of major WWW companies, such as Yahoo, America Online and GeoCities, and corporations, such as United Airlines, that have become embroiled in privacy issues.
WWW privacy issue problems emanate from a number of varied sources that include (1) uncertainties created by the convergence of new legislation, self-regulation models and WWW standards that are all continually evolving, (2) legislation that although it may be consistent in its approach is often very different regarding specific details, (3) sophisticated software products that permits the tracking and gathering of data and the ability to include such data into customized marketing programs, (4) an increasing commercial demand for consumer information and (5) and a gap that may be widening between what is legal and what may be necessary to prevent major embarrassment for an offending web site.
The complexity of privacy issues involving databases and the WWW is further compounded because it involves a variety of international, national and state laws, self-regulation models and an increasingly evident consumer demand for the protection of one's personal information. The result is that privacy law is constantly changing as the e-commerce environment rapidly approaches a climate where it may become a necessity, as well as legally advisable, for every Web-based business to have a privacy policy on its site.
Establishing and implementing a privacy policy on your site may now be obligatory if your site caters to Europeans, children or is in an industry that regulates the collection of information. With the passage of the "Children Online Privacy Protection Act of 1998" ("COPPA"), which goes into effect in April 2000, having a privacy policy has now become the reality for those sites that collect information from children. However, even when a privacy policy is not obligatory it may already be a necessity for e-commerce sites. This is because of the actions of certain web site owners who have previously gained notoriety and created unfavorable publicity by gathering personal information and exploiting such information without any regard to an individual's wishes and privacy.
A Web-based business requires consumer confidence to be successful. However, even with the significant growth of e-commerce, many consumers will still not register at web sites or transact business on the WWW because of their concern with the privacy of their personal information. Therefore, even though a privacy policy may not as yet be obligatory one may be essential for attracting visitors and potential customers to your site. This is because the posting of a privacy policy on your site should significantly increase consumer confidence in your site and result in increased traffic, registrations and purchasing transactions. Once you have developed and implemented a privacy policy for your site you may further want to instill consumer confidence by becoming a party to a "privacy seal" program such as "TRUSTe" or "BBBOnLine"; these are e-commerce counterparts to the more familiar consumer seal programs such as Good Housekeeping and Underwriters' Laboratories.
PREPARING A PRIVACY POLICY
A FTC report, "Public Workshop on Consumer Privacy on the Global Information Infrastructure" (1997), stated that an effective WWW privacy policy must (1) identify the party collecting the information, (2) state how that party intends to use the information, (3) state how a visitor to a particular web site could limit the disclosure of information, (4) provide consumer choice with respect to how the collector of the information could use or disclose the information, and (5) provide consumer access to any information that has been collected. At present, except for the recent passage of COPPA, the FTC's review of WWW privacy has not as yet resulted in formal regulatory action but instead has relied on consumer education on one-hand and self-regulation and policing by trade associations, individual companies and the Internet industry on the other. The FTC's ultimate response will probably depend upon the success of these "informal" privacy policy approaches.
Therefore, if you decide to adopt a privacy policy for your web site or already have an existing one you should make certain that it was or will be done correctly. Many of you may now be asking if there is a standardized privacy policy that you could copy and use on your web site or if you could generate a customized privacy policy by utilizing the resources of the Direct Marketing Association or a "privacy seal" program. The simple answer is "of course you can". However, as with all such approaches the privacy policy you would create will only be a generic policy rather than a policy that specifically addressed the requirements of your business model and the activities taking place on your web site.
The more effective way to establish a privacy policy is to make certain that it specifically addresses all the important issues, including any special legal requirements that may be applicable to your business. Therefore, the privacy policy you develop and implement for your Web-based business must be tailored to your company's specific business requirements, your visitor's privacy concerns and be written in such a manner that it "works" for your web site's targeted audience.
Preparing, implementing and maintaining a functional privacy policy for your company's web site is a company-wide activity that in order to be successful must involve the buy-in and cooperation from the general management, product development, marketing and sales, information services and Web design, and legal constituencies of your company. The process for creating a privacy policy is not really very different than it would be for any other business policy developed for your company. The process should include (1) conducting an audit of what you are currently doing, (2) evaluating your objectives, (3) formulating and preparing your company privacy policies, (4) preparing the design for incorporating the privacy policy on your web site, (5) implementing the privacy policy and (6) establishing maintenance procedures to ensure the on-going functionality of the privacy policy.
The second part of this article will discuss specific guidelines for preparing and implementing your company's WWW privacy policy as well as the specific requirements mandated by COPPA that will effect the design of your site and the services that are targeted toward the children who may visit your site
As we enter the new millennium the World Wide Web ("WWW"), because it collects and disseminates personal information, significantly impacts many personal privacy issues and concerns. One major concern of privacy advocates is that when one travels the WWW from one site to another is not the fact that they knowingly leave personal information at particular sites but that they also leave information at sites without their consent. The collection of personal information will continue to expand as the WWW grows in importance and as a greater number of individuals begin to use and purchase products and services from electronic commerce sites, commonly referred to as "e-commerce sites". For many e-commerce sites it may no longer really be an option to have a "privacy policy" because in reality a privacy policy may already be obligatory or an essential condition for successfully competing in e-commerce.
Developing and implementing a personal privacy policy for the WWW should be a relatively straightforward matter for those sites that collect personal information from visitors. This policy should let the visitor know how and why the site collects the information, how the site plans to use the information and whether this information will be disclosed to third parties. Despite the apparent simplicity involved in developing and implementing a privacy policy there have already been many examples of major WWW companies, such as Yahoo, America Online and GeoCities, and corporations, such as United Airlines, that have become embroiled in privacy issues.
WWW privacy issue problems emanate from a number of varied sources that include (1) uncertainties created by the convergence of new legislation, self-regulation models and WWW standards that are all continually evolving, (2) legislation that although it may be consistent in its approach is often very different regarding specific details, (3) sophisticated software products that permits the tracking and gathering of data and the ability to include such data into customized marketing programs, (4) an increasing commercial demand for consumer information and (5) and a gap that may be widening between what is legal and what may be necessary to prevent major embarrassment for an offending web site.
The complexity of privacy issues involving databases and the WWW is further compounded because it involves a variety of international, national and state laws, self-regulation models and an increasingly evident consumer demand for the protection of one's personal information. The result is that privacy law is constantly changing as the e-commerce environment rapidly approaches a climate where it may become a necessity, as well as legally advisable, for every Web-based business to have a privacy policy on its site.
Establishing and implementing a privacy policy on your site may now be obligatory if your site caters to Europeans, children or is in an industry that regulates the collection of information. With the passage of the "Children Online Privacy Protection Act of 1998" ("COPPA"), which goes into effect in April 2000, having a privacy policy has now become the reality for those sites that collect information from children. However, even when a privacy policy is not obligatory it may already be a necessity for e-commerce sites. This is because of the actions of certain web site owners who have previously gained notoriety and created unfavorable publicity by gathering personal information and exploiting such information without any regard to an individual's wishes and privacy.
A Web-based business requires consumer confidence to be successful. However, even with the significant growth of e-commerce, many consumers will still not register at web sites or transact business on the WWW because of their concern with the privacy of their personal information. Therefore, even though a privacy policy may not as yet be obligatory one may be essential for attracting visitors and potential customers to your site. This is because the posting of a privacy policy on your site should significantly increase consumer confidence in your site and result in increased traffic, registrations and purchasing transactions. Once you have developed and implemented a privacy policy for your site you may further want to instill consumer confidence by becoming a party to a "privacy seal" program such as "TRUSTe" or "BBBOnLine"; these are e-commerce counterparts to the more familiar consumer seal programs such as Good Housekeeping and Underwriters' Laboratories.
PREPARING A PRIVACY POLICY
A FTC report, "Public Workshop on Consumer Privacy on the Global Information Infrastructure" (1997), stated that an effective WWW privacy policy must (1) identify the party collecting the information, (2) state how that party intends to use the information, (3) state how a visitor to a particular web site could limit the disclosure of information, (4) provide consumer choice with respect to how the collector of the information could use or disclose the information, and (5) provide consumer access to any information that has been collected. At present, except for the recent passage of COPPA, the FTC's review of WWW privacy has not as yet resulted in formal regulatory action but instead has relied on consumer education on one-hand and self-regulation and policing by trade associations, individual companies and the Internet industry on the other. The FTC's ultimate response will probably depend upon the success of these "informal" privacy policy approaches.
Therefore, if you decide to adopt a privacy policy for your web site or already have an existing one you should make certain that it was or will be done correctly. Many of you may now be asking if there is a standardized privacy policy that you could copy and use on your web site or if you could generate a customized privacy policy by utilizing the resources of the Direct Marketing Association or a "privacy seal" program. The simple answer is "of course you can". However, as with all such approaches the privacy policy you would create will only be a generic policy rather than a policy that specifically addressed the requirements of your business model and the activities taking place on your web site.
The more effective way to establish a privacy policy is to make certain that it specifically addresses all the important issues, including any special legal requirements that may be applicable to your business. Therefore, the privacy policy you develop and implement for your Web-based business must be tailored to your company's specific business requirements, your visitor's privacy concerns and be written in such a manner that it "works" for your web site's targeted audience.
Preparing, implementing and maintaining a functional privacy policy for your company's web site is a company-wide activity that in order to be successful must involve the buy-in and cooperation from the general management, product development, marketing and sales, information services and Web design, and legal constituencies of your company. The process for creating a privacy policy is not really very different than it would be for any other business policy developed for your company. The process should include (1) conducting an audit of what you are currently doing, (2) evaluating your objectives, (3) formulating and preparing your company privacy policies, (4) preparing the design for incorporating the privacy policy on your web site, (5) implementing the privacy policy and (6) establishing maintenance procedures to ensure the on-going functionality of the privacy policy.
The second part of this article will discuss specific guidelines for preparing and implementing your company's WWW privacy policy as well as the specific requirements mandated by COPPA that will effect the design of your site and the services that are targeted toward the children who may visit your site
Saturday, March 24, 2007
Go to my town BANGKOK
For many, Bangkok, Thailand is the ultimate travel destination. A heady blend of modernity and tradition, Bangkok has something to offer everyone. Modern Bangkok is a large, bustling city of some 6 million people. The capital of Thailand, it is the administrative centre and the heart of the country. I
t is a city where skyscrapers and modern buildings jostle for space against the Bangkok skyline. It is also very much a city of entertainment and fun. Above all, Bangkok is a city of extremes.Despite its modern trappings, Bangkok is firmly embedded in tradition. All aspects of Thai culture are revered here, as they are in any rural or less urban part of the country. Rituals are carried out on a daily basis. Like elsewhere in the country, Monks accept their daily alms and people of all ages pray and make merit at one of countless temples. In Bangkok you can at one moment be in the 21st century, the next walking through antiquity.
Thailand’s capital has everything the modern traveller enjoys. The
city has a wide range of world-class accommodation, from ‘6-star’ hotels, to moderately priced guesthouses for those on a more limited budget. Bangkok also offers some of the best food on the planet – authentic Thai cuisine alongside the very best dishes from almost every part of the world. Of course, Bangkok’s nightlife is legendary and offers an unparalleled range of entertainment - bars and go-go, shows, concerts, and cinema – almost everything you could possibly want is available here.As Thailand is a regional hub, Bangkok has become one of the most important cities in the region. As with the rest of the country, banking services are efficient and reliable, and telecommunications services are equally good. An international standard telephone network and high speed Internet facilities help you keep in touch, whether you are here on holiday or in Bangkok on business. With the introduction of the BTS ‘Sky Train’ elevated railway (and the more recent introduction of the MRT ‘Subway’ underground railway) alongside development of expressways and elevated toll ways, travelling around Bangkok is now as convenient as travelling in any major city.
Bangkok is not just a city to visit briefly on your way to somewhere else. It is a place so rich in experience you will want to visit it time and time again. To help you get the most out of your trip to Bangkok, ThailTravelInfo gives you the information you need to have the best time you can!
Go Koh Chang
Koh Chang is the focal point of Koh Chang National Marine Park. Until recently Koh Chang and the park were well kept secrets, even from local Thais. They received very few visitors and as a result there was little development. This is quite remarkable given its close proximity to Bangkok – only 330 kilometres direct. Over the last couple of years though their have been plans to develop Koh Chang into an upscale resort and as a result there has been an increase in the amount of building that has taken place on the island.
Koh Chang is the largest of the 52 islands in Koh Chang National Marine Park and the second-largest island in Thailand. Most of the island is rainforest and it features a range of hills, the highest (Khao Jom Prasat) nearly 800 metres high. The result is a very dramatic landscape that acts as a backdrop for some excellent bays and beaches including Ao Klong, Hat Sai Khao and Ao Khlong Prao. The island is also home to a wide range of wildlife, including a good selection of birds, snakes, deer and a number of elephants. The island and its vicinity are great places for snorkelling and diving. The best time to dive here is between November and April and the south of the island offers the best visibility. For more advanced divers there is a Thai warship that was sunk by the French in 1941. A number of excellent diving centres offering courses and guides are available on the island. Kayaking and sail boarding are also available on the island.
The island is also a great place for hikes, and it is possible to walk from one side of the island to the other (although it’s not advisable without a guide). Elephant rides into the jungle are also popular. Elephants based at Ban Khlong Son Elephant Camp can be hired for 900 baht for one and a half hours. The more usual attractions like Buddhist temples are also available on the island.
How to get there: Probably the easiest and cheapest way to get to Koh Chang is to take a Songtaew from Trat to Lean Ngop and from there take the ferry. The Songtaew trip will cost 20 Baht.
Koh Chang is the largest of the 52 islands in Koh Chang National Marine Park and the second-largest island in Thailand. Most of the island is rainforest and it features a range of hills, the highest (Khao Jom Prasat) nearly 800 metres high. The result is a very dramatic landscape that acts as a backdrop for some excellent bays and beaches including Ao Klong, Hat Sai Khao and Ao Khlong Prao. The island is also home to a wide range of wildlife, including a good selection of birds, snakes, deer and a number of elephants. The island and its vicinity are great places for snorkelling and diving. The best time to dive here is between November and April and the south of the island offers the best visibility. For more advanced divers there is a Thai warship that was sunk by the French in 1941. A number of excellent diving centres offering courses and guides are available on the island. Kayaking and sail boarding are also available on the island.
The island is also a great place for hikes, and it is possible to walk from one side of the island to the other (although it’s not advisable without a guide). Elephant rides into the jungle are also popular. Elephants based at Ban Khlong Son Elephant Camp can be hired for 900 baht for one and a half hours. The more usual attractions like Buddhist temples are also available on the island.
How to get there: Probably the easiest and cheapest way to get to Koh Chang is to take a Songtaew from Trat to Lean Ngop and from there take the ferry. The Songtaew trip will cost 20 Baht.
Where to go?
Given its rich diversity Thailand has a lot to offer its visitors. Of course, Bangkok is 
one place most start and end their visit to Thailand. The cultural and administrative centre of the country, Bangkok has plenty to offer. Of course, a big, brash, modern city like Bangkok has the creature comforts and entertainment that visitors look for and it's famous for its famous nightlife (with go-go places like Patpong and Nana on most visitors' itineraries). But beyond that, where should a visitor go in Thailand?
one place most start and end their visit to Thailand. The cultural and administrative centre of the country, Bangkok has plenty to offer. Of course, a big, brash, modern city like Bangkok has the creature comforts and entertainment that visitors look for and it's famous for its famous nightlife (with go-go places like Patpong and Nana on most visitors' itineraries). But beyond that, where should a visitor go in Thailand? Although there are numerous places that warrant a visit, there are some 'staples' - places that most visitors to Thailand end up visiting. Starting in the north, Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai are popular ports of call. Their dramatic mountainous landscapes coupled with unique histories make both intriguing and entertaining places to visit. Also in the north, Sukothai offers less in terms of dramatic scenery, but more in terms of history and culture. The ruins of Sukothai's ancient city offer a glimpse of Thailand glorious past, as does Ayutthaya in central Thailand.
As yet a part of Thailand that is not visited as often of other regions, the northeast (or 'Isan' as it is known locally) does offer some 'off-the-beaten track' treats. Buriram is becoming a firm favourite with visitors, as is Loei. Although Loei is in northeastern Thailand, it has a lot in common with the mountainous regions of the north. The coldest province in the county, Loei, offers dramatic scenery enhanced by the presence of mists and fogs.
For many with connections to the Second World War, Kanchanaburi is a 'must-visit' destination. A number of sites present Kanchanaburi's role in the war and help chronicle the deaths of many thousands of soldiers who died as POWs in the area during the Second World War. Source: Genesis Thailand's eastern provinces have much to offer, not least Chonburi, home to Pattaya, one of Thailand's leading destinations. Pattaya has the distinction of being the closest resort city to the capital and drawing masses of 'weekenders'. It is also an international tourism destination in its own right. Pattaya's finely tuned nightlife includes a huge offering of go-go alongside great restaurants and its own unique take on cabaret! Other resort cities include Hua Hin and Cha-am - both with excellent beaches and only a short drive from Bangkok. Of course, there are places worthy of visits that are common to all of Thailand's provinces. The country's National Parks are always worthy of a visit, wherever you are in the country. But it is the diversity of Thailand and the attractions it offers which are its strength. Be sure to visit the key destinations, but spare some time to get off the beaten path and experience a Thailand that is not on the tourist map. It's worth the effort to see another side to this glorious country.
Of course, Thailand is rightly renowned for its islands; some of the best island destinations in the world… clear waters, white and golden sands, palms and coconuts - truly paradise on earth. Some of the major islands to visit include Koh Chang - still emerging from relative obscurity and therefore still reaso
nably quiet. Source: Genesis
nably quiet. Source: Genesis The Phi Phi Islands are famous too and include the actually place where 'The Beach' was filmed (yes - you too can stand where Leo stood!); Phuket - an island the size of Singapore with plenty of great beaches to experience; James Bond Island - yes, that island, the one in the 'Man with the Golden Gun'; the Surin Islands - a bit tricky to get to but well worth the effort; Koh Samet - an island with a unique place in Thai culture and some glorious beaches; Koh Phangnan - famed for its Full Moon Parties and hedonism in paradise; and Koh Samui - an island of lovely beaches and bays, coconuts and forested hills.
Thursday, March 22, 2007
In summer where we go?
Time to go?
Wherever you travel in the world, it is important to get the timing right. Not knowing about a country’s seasons and possible weather conditions can turn your holiday into a nightmare. Likewise, gathering some basic details about what to expect will help you make the right decisions about where and when to go.
As far as Thailand is concerned, the best time of year for a visit is between November and February. Generally, the weather is cooler during this period and there is certainly less rain than at other times in the year. However, Thailand is a big country with a diverse landscape. There is somewhere to visit whatever time of the year you visit the kingdom.Thailand’s SeasonsThailand’s seasons are reasonably uniform through the country, but there are some regional differences. What follows is a summary of the seasons as they impact the kingdom’s various regions:
Central Thailand and the EastIn central Thailand and the eastern provinces, the really hot summer weather starts around March and goes on to around November. During this time extreme temperatures can go up to the 45 degrees centigrade mark. The winter months are November to February. There may really be only a few days of genuinely cold weather during these months, but the period leading up to the New Year are a welcome respite from the heat throughout the rest of the year. Aside from these days, visitors from Europe still may feel the temperatures as being a bit warm during Thailand’s winter, although not uncomfortably so. The rainy season kicks in around the end of May and goes on until October. The rain is frequent and sometimes fierce. Usually though rainstorms go on for around 30 minutes or so, and after a storm the weather is significantly cooler.
Northern Thailand and the NortheastNorthern Thailand and the Northeast have the same basic seasons as those in the central and eastern regions. The winters are though significantly cooler. Mountainous regions can get particularly cold, on some occasions down to 0 degrees centigrade. In these parts of Thailand’s winter starts in November and goes on to January. Without doubt these are the best months for a visit to the North and Northeast – flowers are in bloom, it is dry and cool, and in the mountains mists and fogs often form making what is already wonderful scenery exquisite.
Southern ThailandSouthern Thailand’s seasons are less distinct and really there are only two proper seasons - summer and the rainy season. The Gulf of Thailand lies to the east of the Thai peninsula while the Andaman Sea lies to the west. Visiting areas west of the peninsula (Phuket, Phang Nga, Krabi) is best done between November and April to avoid the monsoons that occur during other months – monsoons obviously make visiting islands by boat difficult and sometimes dangerous. Clearly they are best to be avoided. Areas east of the peninsula (Koh Samui, Hat Yai) are best visited between May and October. If you are planning to visit both sides of the coast during your stay in Thailand, March to April would be the best months.
Wat Phra Kaew in Bangkok
Wat Phra Kaew in Bangkok
The Grand Palace and Wat Pra Kaew really are places you must visit while you are in Bangkok. Both have considerable historical significance and are extremely beautiful places to see. The Grand Palace was built in 1782 by King Rama I who established Bangkok as Thailand’s new capital. The palace was to be bigger and grander than palaces built in the Sukhothai and Ayutthaya eras to underscore the significance of the change of capital. The result was a palace of jewels and gold and splendour the like never seen before in Thailand. The Grand Palace remained the Royal Family’s official residence from 1782 to 1946. The last king to live there was King Chulalongkorn.
Wat Pra Kaew was built to house the Emerald Buddha which was returned to Thailand after Thailand’s the capture of Vientiane in 1778. The Emerald Buddha is the most important representation of the Buddha in Thai Buddhism. To pray before the Emerald Buddha is to make merit, and although this is an important place on any visitor’s itinerary, it is important to recognise that this is a place of worship and should be respected as such.
Notes: You must dress appropriately before guards will permit you to enter the Palace. If you do not have long sleeved shirts/blouses or long trousers or dresses/skirts with you, it is possible to hire cloth at the gates of the Palace. This cloth can be wrapped around you and worn as a 'Sarong' or across your shoulders. Under no circumstances must you point your feet at the Emerald Buddha – to do so is sacrilege. If you can not cross you legs, avoid sitting down. If you do point your feet at the Buddha image, you could be ejected. Photography inside the Emerald Buddha Chapel is strictly forbidden. This is not just a requirement of the chapel; taking pictures of Buddha images is against the law.
Details: Admission fee is 200 Baht for foreigners, but Thais are admitted free (remember – to Thais this is a place of worship, not a tourist attraction!). The fee also includes tickets to the Coin Pavillion, Vimanmek Mansion and Abhisek Dusit Throne Hall, all of which are worth seeing in their own right. The site is open 8:30-12:00 and 13:00-15:30.
How to get there: The Grand Palace and Wat Pra Kaew are in the Banglamphu area of Bangkok – the ‘Old City’. To get there you can take a taxi, which from the centre of Bangkok will cost about 80 Baht. The following buses will get you there:
Bus Number: 1, 35, 44,47, 123, 201 Air-conditioned Bus Number: 2, 3, 7, 8, 12, 25, 39, 44, 82
Contact: Tel: 0-2224-3328, 0-2226-0255 Fax: 0-2225-9158
The Grand Palace and Wat Pra Kaew really are places you must visit while you are in Bangkok. Both have considerable historical significance and are extremely beautiful places to see. The Grand Palace was built in 1782 by King Rama I who established Bangkok as Thailand’s new capital. The palace was to be bigger and grander than palaces built in the Sukhothai and Ayutthaya eras to underscore the significance of the change of capital. The result was a palace of jewels and gold and splendour the like never seen before in Thailand. The Grand Palace remained the Royal Family’s official residence from 1782 to 1946. The last king to live there was King Chulalongkorn.
Wat Pra Kaew was built to house the Emerald Buddha which was returned to Thailand after Thailand’s the capture of Vientiane in 1778. The Emerald Buddha is the most important representation of the Buddha in Thai Buddhism. To pray before the Emerald Buddha is to make merit, and although this is an important place on any visitor’s itinerary, it is important to recognise that this is a place of worship and should be respected as such.
Notes: You must dress appropriately before guards will permit you to enter the Palace. If you do not have long sleeved shirts/blouses or long trousers or dresses/skirts with you, it is possible to hire cloth at the gates of the Palace. This cloth can be wrapped around you and worn as a 'Sarong' or across your shoulders. Under no circumstances must you point your feet at the Emerald Buddha – to do so is sacrilege. If you can not cross you legs, avoid sitting down. If you do point your feet at the Buddha image, you could be ejected. Photography inside the Emerald Buddha Chapel is strictly forbidden. This is not just a requirement of the chapel; taking pictures of Buddha images is against the law.
Details: Admission fee is 200 Baht for foreigners, but Thais are admitted free (remember – to Thais this is a place of worship, not a tourist attraction!). The fee also includes tickets to the Coin Pavillion, Vimanmek Mansion and Abhisek Dusit Throne Hall, all of which are worth seeing in their own right. The site is open 8:30-12:00 and 13:00-15:30.
How to get there: The Grand Palace and Wat Pra Kaew are in the Banglamphu area of Bangkok – the ‘Old City’. To get there you can take a taxi, which from the centre of Bangkok will cost about 80 Baht. The following buses will get you there:
Bus Number: 1, 35, 44,47, 123, 201 Air-conditioned Bus Number: 2, 3, 7, 8, 12, 25, 39, 44, 82
Contact: Tel: 0-2224-3328, 0-2226-0255 Fax: 0-2225-9158
Go to Pattaya with Me
PATTAYA
Pattaya Beach is at the centre of the half moon crescent that makes up the Pattaya coastline with Nakula Beach to the north and Jomtien Beach to the south. This part of Pattaya is famous (infamous?) for its nightlife. Very much a hedonist’s paradise, Pattaya Beach is littered with go-go bars and swamped with people employed in the sex industry; both genders (and some of nondescript gender!) and a variety of nationalities including Russians and others from former Eastern Bloc countries. Although this is the part of Pattaya that has most accommodation available, the nature of the nightlife can put families off. In the last few years though there has been a drive to make Pattaya more appealing to families by restricting some of the less salubrious activities. This has been successful to an extent but the are
a still maintains its go-go, discos and nightclubs. By day the area is somewhat different – the water is packed with jet-skiers, water skiers, powerboats and the sky is full of parasails! It is also a centre for scuba divers. Although as a dive site it might not meet the excellence of other places in Thailand, Pattaya is convenient for Bangkok and those with limited time who want to experience diving might well benefit from taking a course at one of Pattaya’s numerous and inexpensive dive shops. Ko Lan, Ko Sak, Ko Krok, Ko Man Wichai, and Ko Rin are all in easy reach of Pattaya as is a major shipwreck where more advanced divers visit. Pattaya Beach itself has its appeal, but the numerous hawkers walking up and down the beach make it a difficult place to just sit and relax – you are offered everything from food to high technology with annoying regularity. There’s no doubt Pattaya Beach is a fun destination, but one that needs some consideration before a visit. Pattaya has its appeal, but perhaps it might not appeal to you or your situation.How to get there: Pattaya Beach is on the Songtaew route and getting there is 20 Baht from anywhere in Pattaya.
I love siam
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. The country's official name was Siam (Thai: สยาม; IPA: [saˈjaːm], RTGS: Sayam) until 24 June 1939. [1] It was again called Siam between 1945 and May 11, 1949, when it was once again changed by official proclamation. The word Thai (ไทย) means "freedom" in the Thai language and is also the name of the majority ethnic group.
WE LOVE THE KING
In Thailand we have much more good travel. Let's go.
Phuket
One of the most popular tourist areas on Phuket is Patong Beach on the central western coast, perhaps owing to the easy access to its wide and long beach. Most of Phuket's nightlife and its cheap shopping is located in Patong, and the area has become increasingly developed. Patong means "the forest filled with banana leaves" in Thai.
Other popular beaches are located south of Patong. In a counterclockwise direction these include Karon Beach, Kata Beach, Kata Noi Beach, and around the southern tip of the island, Nai Harn Beach and Bang Tao Beach. These areas are generally much less developed than Patong, and sought out by individuals, families and other groups with a preference for more relaxed and less crowded environs than Patong.
There are several coral islands to the south of Phuket, the Similan Islands lie to the north west, and Phi Phi Islands to the south east. All the islands are suitable for diving.
Location: 7°58′N 98°20′ECoordinates: 7°58′N 98°20′E
Other popular beaches are located south of Patong. In a counterclockwise direction these include Karon Beach, Kata Beach, Kata Noi Beach, and around the southern tip of the island, Nai Harn Beach and Bang Tao Beach. These areas are generally much less developed than Patong, and sought out by individuals, families and other groups with a preference for more relaxed and less crowded environs than Patong.
There are several coral islands to the south of Phuket, the Similan Islands lie to the north west, and Phi Phi Islands to the south east. All the islands are suitable for diving.
Location: 7°58′N 98°20′ECoordinates: 7°58′N 98°20′E
Lawyer Movie
I like this movie because it make me feel good.
That about THE FIRM I will describe that.
The novel focuses on Mitch McDeere, graduated third in his class at Harvard Law School. Mitch is married to his girlfriend from college, Abby. Mitch's brother Ray is serving a prison term. Another brother died in Vietnam.
mitch has offers from law firms in New York and Chicago. but he is seduced by a promise of great pay, a house, and a BMW from a small law firm in Memphis.
Initially, although he's worked very hard, life is good in Memphis, with the chance to become a partner after only a few years. Then two of Mitch's colleagues die in an accident. An FBI agent, Wayne Tarrance, confronts Mitch, and Mitch learns gradually that the Firm is actually a cover for the Mafia. They have a system in which new lawyers from poor backgrounds are successfully lured into the firm with promises of secure wealth. By the time a lawyer knows its actual operations, he cannot leave. No lawyer has actually quit the firm alive. Mitch learns that his house, office and even his car are bugged.
Desperate to find a way out and stay alive in the process, Mitch makes a deal with the FBI, in which he gets two million dollars and the release of his brother, but only if he collects enough evidence to indict the members of the firm.
Meanwhile, the firm becomes suspicious, and with the assistance of a mole in the FBI, they discover Mitch's plan. Once Mitch learns of this, he stops trusting the FBI and runs from both the police and Mafia, taking his wife and his now-released brother with him. He then proceeds to steal approximately ten million dollars from various bank accounts belonging to the firm.
Mitch manages to escape to the Caribbean region, while the FBI gets the evidence they need to bust the firm. At the end, Mitch and his family are shown quietly enjoying their newfound wealth in the Caribbean region.
That about THE FIRM I will describe that.
The novel focuses on Mitch McDeere, graduated third in his class at Harvard Law School. Mitch is married to his girlfriend from college, Abby. Mitch's brother Ray is serving a prison term. Another brother died in Vietnam.
mitch has offers from law firms in New York and Chicago. but he is seduced by a promise of great pay, a house, and a BMW from a small law firm in Memphis.
Initially, although he's worked very hard, life is good in Memphis, with the chance to become a partner after only a few years. Then two of Mitch's colleagues die in an accident. An FBI agent, Wayne Tarrance, confronts Mitch, and Mitch learns gradually that the Firm is actually a cover for the Mafia. They have a system in which new lawyers from poor backgrounds are successfully lured into the firm with promises of secure wealth. By the time a lawyer knows its actual operations, he cannot leave. No lawyer has actually quit the firm alive. Mitch learns that his house, office and even his car are bugged.
Desperate to find a way out and stay alive in the process, Mitch makes a deal with the FBI, in which he gets two million dollars and the release of his brother, but only if he collects enough evidence to indict the members of the firm.
Meanwhile, the firm becomes suspicious, and with the assistance of a mole in the FBI, they discover Mitch's plan. Once Mitch learns of this, he stops trusting the FBI and runs from both the police and Mafia, taking his wife and his now-released brother with him. He then proceeds to steal approximately ten million dollars from various bank accounts belonging to the firm.
Mitch manages to escape to the Caribbean region, while the FBI gets the evidence they need to bust the firm. At the end, Mitch and his family are shown quietly enjoying their newfound wealth in the Caribbean region.
Who is Lawyer?
For the fish called "lawyer", see Burbot.
English barrister
16th century painting of a civil law notary, by Flemish painter Quentin Massys. A civil law notary is roughly analogous to a common law solicitor, except that, unlike solicitors, civil law notaries do not practice litigation to any degree. A lawyer, or legal practitioner, is a person certified to give legal advice who advises clients in legal matters. Some lawyers represent clients in courts of law and in other forms of dispute resolution. Law is a theoretical and abstract discipline. Working as a lawyer represents the practical application of legal theory and knowledge to solve real problems or to advance the interests of those who retain (i.e., hire) lawyers for legal services. The role of the lawyer varies significantly across legal jurisdictions, and therefore can be treated here in only the most general terms. More information is available in country-specific articles (see below).
English barrister
16th century painting of a civil law notary, by Flemish painter Quentin Massys. A civil law notary is roughly analogous to a common law solicitor, except that, unlike solicitors, civil law notaries do not practice litigation to any degree. A lawyer, or legal practitioner, is a person certified to give legal advice who advises clients in legal matters. Some lawyers represent clients in courts of law and in other forms of dispute resolution. Law is a theoretical and abstract discipline. Working as a lawyer represents the practical application of legal theory and knowledge to solve real problems or to advance the interests of those who retain (i.e., hire) lawyers for legal services. The role of the lawyer varies significantly across legal jurisdictions, and therefore can be treated here in only the most general terms. More information is available in country-specific articles (see below).
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