Thailand has a population of about 60 million people of which about three fourths are ethnic Thais. There are many minorities living in Thailand and amongst them a percentage comprises of Chinese while the remaining are Vietnamese, Cambodian, Malays and hill tribes. In the early 19th and 20th century, Chinese immigrants came and settled down in Thailand. They married Thai women and changed their names from Chinese names to Thai ones. Most of them adopted Buddhism as their religion and learned to speak, read and write Thai. It was said that the Chinese immigrants were good at money making and they ended up becoming the best businessmen in Thailand.

Most people in Thailand are concentrated in rural areas and make money with farming and agriculture. However, industrialization is changing this trend and slowly people are migrating from villages to the capital city of Bangkok. The other reason being that due to bad farming practices, many villagers and farmers are not able to make money from their farms and end up coming to Bangkok in search of a livelihood. According to a recent survey, the urban population comprises of 37 percentage of the entire population of the country.

The government of Thailand is said to be successful in many aspects. The family planning is one of the most successful programs undertaken by the government of Thailand. It reduced percentage of birth rate from 3.1 percent to less than 1 percent. It is also successful in reducing the percentage of HIV patients. According to a recent census, there are approximately 60000 Thais affected with HIV / AIDS. A few years ago, it was estimated that by the end of 2006, thirty to fifty thousand Thais would die from HIV. In order to prevent this, the Thai government had undertaken annual public education campaigns and this has been successful to a certain extent by improving awareness and educating people on how to protect themselves from HIV.

About 90 percent of people admit to having some fear of flying. This despite statistics that indicate flying is twice as safe as taking a train or bus, and 30 times safer than driving on a highway. But the fear of flying is not without any basis as air travel does involve a number of health hazards. Spending hours on a cramped, crowded plane isn't conducive to good health.

Frequent fliers will attest to having experienced a number of situations that were quite unsettling during a flight. However, most of the health hazards involved in air travel can be avoided by taking precautions. And whether you're a frequent flier or a first timer, there are ways to cushion yourself from a long flight.

Air sickness:

Travelers may suffer from motion sickness when the plane encounters turbulence. If you are prone to motion sickness, request a seat near the wing, where the ride is steadier. Take a motion-sickness medication before and during the flight, or try ginger in fresh or pill form.

Colds and other viruses:

While the air filters on planes can prevent bacteria and clumps of viruses from circulating in the cabin, they do nothing about individual cold and flu viruses. If you're seated next to someone who's coughing and sneezing, move to a different seat if you can. Wash your hands often and keep them away from your nose and eyes. Also moisten nasal passages with a saline nasal spray.

Dehydration:

Drink plenty of fluids to counter the effects of dry cabin air. Avoid alcohol and beverages that are both carbonated and caffeinated as these types of drinks can dehydrate you further.

"Economy-class syndrome":

This condition is marked by stiff joints and swollen ankles and feet brought about by changes in air pressure and sitting in a cramped space for long periods. (A blood clot can even form in the lower leg.) To combat this condition, avoid crossing your legs and, when permitted, walk around the cabin and stretch. Wear lace-up shoes to accommodate swelling.

Jet lag:

This condition is characterized by disorientation and restlessness or fatigue during adjustment to a new time zone. It can occur when traveling east or west, but typically it is more pronounced when traveling east. To minimize its effects, adjust your sleeping and eating times closer to those of your destination during the week before you travel. Once you arrive at your destination, avoid exposing yourself to sunlight and in engaging in some mild exercise. Whatever you do, your goal should be to sleep at night when you arrive at your destination.

Nasal congestion:

If you have a cold or allergies, be aware that the change in air pressure can cause acute sinus pain. Take an oral decongestant an hour before your flight lands, and use a decongestant nasal spray a half hour before landing.

Plane food:

Plane foods are often tasteless, high in fat, and low in nutrients. When you make your flight reservation, order special meals such as vegetarian, low-fat, or kosher. Better yet, avoid unsavory plane food altogether by bringing your own snacks on board.

Plugged ears:

Changes in air pressure can make your ears feel plugged. To relieve this discomfort, chew gum or yawn until your ears "pop". To allay babies' ear problems, feed them during the plane's descent.

Stale air:

Planes built since the 1980s are equipped with air systems that supply half fresh, half recycled air into the cabin. For the best air, avoid flying at peak times (when planes are crowded or booked to the last seat). If you feel dizzy or faint, ask a flight attendant if the pilot can increase the amount of fresh air.

It is estimated that 9 out of 10 people have some fear of flying. Many of us fly anyway and do so with only mild anxiety. For others, the fear of flying can lead to panic attacks or may be a symptom of an anxiety disorder. Most cases can be overcome with counseling. A course of medication may also be prescribed.

In Japan’s capital, it would appear that there is a perfect blend of opposites. In one direction you would find the peaceful, carefully maintained landscapes of Hamarikyu Garden and in the other, the chaotic and frenzied atmosphere of the Tsukiji Fish Market. Both are a must-see as they are regarded to be two of the most popular tourist attraction spots in the city.

It is for these opposites that Tokyo is the ideal destination for any traveller; with the added bonus of the majority of attractions being either centralized in the city or conveniently located by public transportation routes, tourists can sample the delights which Tokyo has to offer and beyond without incurring too much stress or hassle.

The Roppongi Hills for example, hosts a sprawling complex of hotels, restaurants, museums and movie theatres while shoppers are well also well catered for with a wide array of shops in which to hunt down a bargain. The centre-piece of the complex is the 54-storey Mori Tower, built by building tycoon Minoru Mori at a cost of over $4 billion.

Cuisine-wise, there is a dish to suit every palate. For those wishing to experience a taste of the Japanese culture, sushi and miso soup is regarded to be a staple for the natives and for those who are less adventurous, numerous Western foods, such as pizzas, steaks and chips have also made themselves at home in menus across the city.

Of course, if you are feeling the strain of being in a new city, why not try the delights of luxury spa treatments? Once considered to be an exclusive territory for women, recent years has seen spas become increasingly populated by men and women alike. Take advantage of trained professionals whose main objective is to massage away tension from the body and mind by using a variety of techniques: the use of warmed stones to revive and revitalize muscles; wrapping one’s body in a mixture of grape seed and French clay to eliminate impurities while returning a multitude of vitamins and antioxidant properties to the skin; or the use of sea salts and algae to remove dead skin cells and replenish the skin with trace elements and minerals are just some of the treatments available in spa treatments.

Nevertheless whatever the treatment chosen, rest assured that the luxury spa hotel selected to deal with your aches and pains will provide the perfect solution to your problems and can attend to your needs, so that afterwards your mind and body will be rejuvenated to continue on with the exploration of a new city and all of its pleasures.

If you're looking for somewhere great to take the kids over summer break, why not consider taking them to Universal Studios in Orlando, Florida? Theme parks very rarely miss the mark with kids. Most children love the thrilling rides, exciting shows, and fun characters. It's like a carnival on a much grander scale. Universal Studios is most definitely a kid friendly vacation destination.

With five parks to choose from in the Universal Orlando Resort family, the biggest problem is going to be finding the time to fit in all the activities. You have the choice of going to the Islands of Adventure, Universal Studios Florida, Wet 'n Wild water park, Sea World, and Busch Gardens. Rather than trying to make the choice of visiting only one or two of the Universal Studios parks, many people opt for a multi-park pass. Depending on how many parks you plan to visit during your stay in Orlando, you can purchase passes to accommodate your family's choices.

You can also stay on-site at Universal Studios during your vacation. There are three hotels to choose from and each hotel is only steps away from the parks. The Royal Pacific Hotel is a tropical themed hotel with waterfalls, swimming pools and weekly luaus. The Hard Rock Hotel is perfect for the rock 'n roll fan who wants to vacation like a rock star. The Portofino Bay Hotel features authentic Italian furnishing and impeccable service. Regardless of which hotel you book into, you can bypass the regular lines for all rides at all parks just by showing your room key. Not having your children wait in long lines for rides is a kid friendly vacation destination perk you can't get at any other hotels.

You can even design your own vacation package. This allows you to customize your trip and take advantage of the newest and best deals available. By designing your own vacation package, you can create the experience that best suits your family. Packages can include, hotels, attraction tickets, multiple park passes, airport or hotel transportation and car rentals if needed. You can also book a Universal Studios character breakfast for your children. That would pretty much guarantee your spot in their heart as "cool parental unit" of the year. If a kid friendly vacation destination is on the horizon, then Orlando, Florida is worth consideration.

Hawaii is rated one of the most popular vacation destination for American travelers by Ask Doc Travel. The destination is also quite popular with American Express Vacations. But why? What makes this destination so wonderful? For those of us who have traveled to Hawaii, there are so many reasons to visit that we become muddled, answering only “What do you mean what’s so great about Hawaii?” Well, here are some things to keep in mind when you speak of the many wonders which make Hawaii such a popular destination.

Hawaii is comprised of eight islands. These islands are natural wonders that were created in the middle of the ocean by underwater volcanoes. As the magma from these volcanoes cooled, they hardened into rocks. These rock formations became the Hawaiian Islands. The volcanic phenomenon created Hawaii’s famous black sand beaches and the rich soil from which springs the islands lush vegetation. These main islands are Niihau, Kauai , Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, Kahoolawe, Maui, and Hawaii. The island Hawaii is the largest, and is sometimes called the "Big Island" or "Big Isle". This phenomenon created Hawaii’s famous black sand beaches and the rich soil from which springs the islands lush vegetation.

The climate of Hawaii is one more reason why these islands remain a popular vacation destination. The weather is more moderate than typical tropical areas because of the cooling effect of the surrounding ocean. In layman's terms, this means that temperatures and humidity tend to be less extreme than places such as the Caribbean or Mexico. In the tourist high season, summer, the high temperatures reaching the upper 80s °F, rarely going into the 90s°F . During the tourist low season of winter, temperatures at the lowest elevation average in the mid-60s. One more reason that Hawaii is to be preferred is because hurricanes are a rare occurrence compared to Mexico and the Caribbean.

Compared to other tropical paradises, Hawaii is monitored by American safety and health regulations. Yes, its ok to drink the tap water! Also, you still have all the rights and protections of a United States citizen. Should anything go wrong, or if you or someone you are traveling with should suddenly need medical attention, you have access to regulated and state of the art care.

When people think of Hawaii, they think of the aquamarine water and clean sandy beaches. But why else should one experience Hawaii? Besides the amazingly pristine beach activities, Hawaii offers deluxe shopping that is reminiscent of Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills, including couture boutiques such as Coach, Gucci, Tiffany’s and more. The islands are also rich in culture and history. One way to experience the beauty of Hawaiian culture is to attend an old fashioned luau. One of the best traditional Luaus is Famous Germaine's Luau in Kapolei Oahu. Take in some American History by visiting the infamous Pearl Harbor. With so much to see and do, you’ll never get bored.

There is one snag in this otherwise amazing destination: cost. Because Hawaii is an isolated island chain, everything is more expensive. And because Hawaii is the 50th American state, there is no lower currency exchange like in the Caribbean. Thankfully, there are a number of hotel and travel providers who offer different packages and accommodations. Although hotels and air flights can be on sale and are widely available, consumer products like food, souvenirs and sundries are expensive. Food for one person could cost between $50 to $100! Budgeting correctly is vital. One way to avoid expenses is by making sure you pack all the sundries you can think of, such as sunblock, Chapstick, sunglasses and such.

However, when all is said and done, Hawaii can be a real home away from home and you’d be surprised how many American Express Travel Deals you can find to Hawaii. Hawaii is a top destination for a number of good reasons. There is no better place to go for a tropical vacation.

Is it fair, no, not fair but ethical, to demand of immigrants to America that which we, as Americans, would not demand of ourselves when and if we were to immigrate to another country? Are we being "Double Minded Gringos" to demand certain things, if you will—requirements, of Mexicans for example, when they attempt to move to our country that we wouldn't dare demand of ourselves?

Just what does it mean for an immigrant to the United States to become "Americanized?" Just what do we mean as a people when we say that anyone, Latinos or whomever, who comes to live among us should adopt and adapt our language and culture? What are we saying exactly and why don't we apply the same standards to ourselves when we go to live in Mexico, proclaiming proudly that we are American Expatriates and that we have Mastered the Culture?

One Supreme Court Justice said that Americanization should look like this:

Immigrants should wear "our" clothes, take on "our" manners and customs as their own, and speak "our" language as their normal manner with which to communicate in the American culture.

This Supreme Court Justice went on to say,

" (W)e properly demand of the immigrant even more than this — he must be brought into complete harmony with our ideals and aspirations and cooperate with us for their attainment. Only when this has been done will he possess the national consciousness of an American."

I know a great deal of Americans, on both sides of the political spectrum, who would shout a very hearty Amen at what I've just written. And, I find myself in agreement with this description of what to become Americanized means. I actually have no problem with it at all. I also know a great deal of Mexicans, some who have been Border Jumpers, who aspire to the exact premises of that argument of what it means to become an Americanized immigrant. In fact, I could go out on a limb and say that I know of no Mexican who would disagree with that.

But, (and there's always a but, isn't there?) the Americans, those on both sides of the American political landscape, who would shout their agreement with what Justice Brandeis wrote, do not make the same demands of themselves when they move to Mexico. I am, of course, and I shouldn't have to make this disclaimer, not talking about each and every American who has ever (or ever will) expatriated to Mexico. I am not talking about every gringo without exception. But (there's that "but" again), I am talking about the vast majority of American gringos who move here and do not do what America says immigrants should do when expatriating to her shores.

If what the good Justice said could be taken as the essential definition of what it means to expatriate; then are those Americans who are attracted to these Gringo Enclaves like iron to a magnet, expatriates at all?

Where is the evidence of their Mexicanization? Where are these American Gringo's Mexican clothes, Mexican manners, Mexican customs, and most importantly of all where is the primary mechanism through which Mexican Culture is transmitted and absorbed, the language—SPANISH?

Where is it? Where's the evidence of it in their daily existence? Where is the communion and fellowship within the monolingual Mexican barrios, festivals, concerts, and churches??? Where is the evidence that the American Gringos do not have to hunt down, like a rare and invaluable treasure, all the bilingual Mexicans that they use to interface with the rest of the Mexican community in which the Gringos dwell?

That's why I regard the term, Gringo Expat Community, as a complete oxymoron. Why does this term, Gringo Expat Community, have to even exist in anyone's vocabulary if American Gringos applied to themselves the demand our American culture demands of Mexicans when they move to America? If what Justice Brandeis said was true, then why do Americans refer to themselves as part of a Gringo Expat Community, American Sector, Gringo Enclave, Gringo Landia, or whatever? If the Justice's point is that immigrants to America are to become, without exception, Americanized Immigrants by taking on the characteristics he outlined, then should not Americans who move to Mexico, claiming to be "American Expats in Mexico," become so Mexicanized that a designation of "American" would be not just unnecessary but, well, dare I say it, an Oxymoron!

When transporting your vehicle, there is certain information that you will want to take the time to gather, consider and know about. Choosing to transport your vehicle by train is one of the most flexible options to choose. There are two choices when it come to auto train transporting. If you would like to travel with your car, then you will want to look at Amtrak. Simply shipping your vehicle and having yourself or someone else pick it up at it’s destination point is an option as well, you would hire a private freight company. There are certain requirements that you need to be aware.

When traveling with your vehicle, on Amtrak, you will need to be there at least two hours prior to your departure time, depending on the vehicle. There are certain types of vehicles that are able to board the auto train, and each has a different check in time as well as height and clearance issues.

An automobile needs to check in 1 hour prior to departure, it can only be up to 65 inches tall with at least 4 inches of ground clearance. There is to be no temporary luggage or bike racks, or luggage or bikes attached to the roof of the car. Bikes will only be allowed in racks attached to the back only. Car alarms need to be deactivated prior to drop off.

Van/SUVs must be there at least two hours prior to departure time. They can be between 66 and 88 inches with at least 4 inches of ground clearance. Temporary bike racks and luggage racks are not allowed if attached to the roof. Bicycles in racks may be attached to the rear of the van only. Auto train does not allow dual wheel vehicles.

Motorcycles must arrive two hours prior to departure time and can be up to 57.5 inches including windshield, with 5 inches of ground clearance. Sidecars are prohibited. You will be allowed to assist in securing and removing the motorcycle. Auto train also allows for other small trailers, jet skis and such with prior approval.

Auto train boarding does not allow for any checked baggage. Baggage may be packed inside of the vehicle, but know that you will not have any access to that baggage. With each vehicle type above the passenger is required to sign a loss or damage waiver for any bicycle that is attached to the back of a vehicle.

There are plenty of items to consider when using the auto train. It is very important for you to know the vehicle requirements for the vehicle that you are transporting. Make sure to bring photo id to the station when you pick up your ticket and when you depart. Auto train tickets must be purchased prior to you boarding the train. Consider the local traffic and make sure that you have plenty of time to get to the station in time to check your vehicle. Take all valuables with you out of your car. Take all items that you will need from the car prior to checking it. Again, you will have no access to the vehicle during the trip. Auto train boarding takes extra time aside from passenger boarding.

Punakha, Bhutan - In the inner sanctum of the ancient white-walled fortress, dozen of red-robed monks prayed by the light of butter lamps, as the incense swirled. With a deep throaty mumble, the old monks recited the ancient Buddhist scriptures laid out before them on the wooden floorboards, interrupted only by a blast on long trumpets and rhythmic beat of ornate decorated drums.

The Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan sells itself as a "high value, low volume" tourist destination, consciously excluding the backpackers who roam neighboring India by insisting visitors spend at least US$200 per person per day in the peak season. And yet, word is spreading like fire, and what was once an exclusive retreat for the well-heeled is steadily joining the tourist circuit. Hollywood stars are reported to frequent Bhutan's boutique hotels but it is groups of elderly Americans whom most visitors are likely to encounter.

Bhutan is sandwiched between India and Tibet, Bhutan is billed in tourist brochures as the "Last Shangri-La", the mystical paradise. At times Bhutan lives up to the description, conjuring up a medieval world of Buddhism mixed with ancient animism, a culture deeply linked to that of Tibet, yet one which avoided the heavy hand of China or the tempting touch of the West.

Men still dress for work in knee-length gowns with huge white cuffs, and four-fifths of the current population are farmers.

However, Bhutan is modernizing and opening up to the outside world slowly. Cars, television and discos are being introduced in the city. There will be more changes as the country is preparing for its first democratic elections next year.

The first thing you can do when you visit the country is to head for the monasteries and its awesome fortresses or dzongs, which dominate every district and host the exotic religious festivals. You can also choose to trek into Himalayas, with some walking for days for views of 7,314m Mount Chomolhari. Bhutan is off-limits to mountaineers - its people believe the peaks are abodes of the gods, and thus scared. It has the world's highest unclimbed mountain, the 7,570m Gangkar Puensum. It is said to be the world's arduous trek, the 23-day Snowman Trek, with most of its journey above 4,000m.

So if you are thinking of making a trip to Bhutan, enjoy yourself. Bhutan is indeed the last "Shangri-La"

Now, let’s talk about a great vacation for an adventure lover. Anyone who loves to have a good time in the great outdoors would really love to raft the New River in Fayetteville, West Virginia. There are many other activities like rock climbing, bungee jumping, camping, hiking, and more in and around the area, but whitewater rafting is one of the most popular.

The New and Gauley Rivers really are big and powerful, sometimes more powerful than others, and each have their own benefits and drawbacks for rafters. There are certain times of the year when the rivers are calmer than others and other times when the rafting is downright dangerous. Knowing when these seasons are and your rafting skill level is important to determine when to schedule your vacation. Also, the age of all rafters should be taken into consideration as well. There are rafting experiences that are mild, exciting, world class, and extreme. The minimum age for the mild rafting is six years, 12 years for the exciting, 16 years for the world class, and 18 years for the extreme rafting.

There is rafting all year round, but clothing requirements are very different depending on the weather. In the winter wetsuits should be worn, the summer a t-shirt or bathing suit is fine, and the spring and fall you should wear synthetic fabrics and wool socks to keep your feet warm. Don’t wear cotton if it’s cold because it will make you colder. Remember that no matter whether it is raining or the sun is shining rafting will go on. You will get wet anyway so it doesn’t matter! Never take anything with you rafting that can’t get wet, because it will for sure!

Prices for rafting the New and Gauley Rivers depends on when you raft. Weekday prices are cheaper than weekends and certain seasons, as well as rivers, are more expensive than others. Rafting trips come with all necessary gear, although your clothes, shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen, and hats are your own responsibility. Package trips that include showers, cabins, camping, and breakfast may also be purchased.

The best time to go if you don’t like being cold is during the summer months. Of course, if you really like a challenge then you might like the fall or spring when the rapids are bigger and faster and provide a more challenging trip. It really is up to you! One thing is for sure and that is when you raft the New or Gauley Rivers, or both, you will have an experience of a lifetime.

Mackinac Island is a small island just a few miles from the Michigan Mainland. You can get there by ferry from either St Ignace or Mackinaw City. The ferry ride takes about 15 minutes.

This lovely island has a rich history and a Victorian image with many historic homes and hotels. When you arrive there you really feel you have stepped back in time as no cars are allowed anywhere on the island. Getting around means horse and buggy, biking or walking.

The island boasts Mackinac state park which the National Geographic named one of the 10 best in the USA. There is a lovely butterfly house that kids especially would enjoy with over 500 of them to see. If you enjoy golfing Wawashkamo Golf Club has a course played on 9 greens from 18 tees and is open to the public.

For people interested in history, Fort Mackinac was constructed by British soldiers during the American Revolution. It served as a sentinel in the Straits of Mackinac for over 100 years. Today, the original restored fort is a National Historic Landmark.

One of the best ways to explore the island is to take one of the many carriage tours available. You can even rent your own carriage or discover all the island has to offer on horseback.

There are many interesting shops which include clothing, gifts, fudge and candies. Several artists live on the island and their paintings are available in several galleries. My favorite store is Lilacs and Lace which has victorian china, jewelry, bath and body products and jewelry cases.

Accomodations include stately hotels, bed and breakfast, condos and suites. The island has a permanent population of about 500 but this increases dramatically in the spring and especially the busy summer season. Reservations at any place should be made well in advance.

The Grand Hotel was built in 1887 and was featured in the movie Somewhere in Time. It has even been named one of the top hotels in the world. This is an attraction itself and features luxurious victorian rooms, beautiful views and several first class restaurants.

There also is a big selection of restaurants featuring everything from casual dining to the elegant.

Mackinac Island is truly a gem and a wonderful place to visit. Michigan is beautiful in the fall and the days remain nice and this can be a great time to go there as it is much less crowded than during the summer months.

If you are visiting Cambridgeshire you will no doubt want to pay a visit to Newmarket, the world famous home of horse racing. Just 20 minutes from Cambridge and straddling the Cambridgeshire/Suffolk border Newmarket has a unique character that just has to be experienced.

Due to the popularity of the sport there are a number of fine restaurants in Newmarket that have sprung up to cater for the mass influx of wealthy race goers every summer.

The High Street which dissects the small town is literally dotted with Pubs and Restaurants all the way down from the White Lion as you enter Newmarket (this is the nearest restaurant to the race courses), down to the bottom end past the clock tower where will find the small chain Italian restaurant, Prezzo’s.

There really is something for everybody be it Indian, Italian, Thai, Chinese, Tapas or just fine gastro food, you will find it in Newmarket.

So the complete run down the High Street coming from the direction of the race courses (if you had the stomach for it!) would go something like this:

The White Lion – English Cuisine
The Fountain – Chinese
The Sangdao – Thai
The Old Scotch Curry House - Indian
The Kings Head – English Cuisine
Newmarket Indian Cuisine – Indian
Ristorante Caruso – Italian
Steven Saunders – Tapas and Bistro
Prezzo – Italian

And that is just on the High Street. If you are willing to venture out a bit further you will find places like the wonderful Essence 2. This solves many a night out dilemna by providing curry and pizza in the same restaurant. It’s brilliant if you have a large mixed crowd and want to avoid arguments as most people will usually eat one or the other.

These are just the sit down restaurants, you will also find, mainly on the High St, your usual selection of KFC and Wimpey, plus a couple of late night kebab shops, perfect after a hard day at the racing.

If you plan to spend a couple of days and you have had enough of the restaurants in Newmarket you might want to think about exploring a little outside the town where there are a host of hidden gems waiting for your custom.

Places like the Three Blackbirds, the Green Man and the Reindeer all warrant a special mention. These are all Inn style eateries that are locally well renowned for the quality of their food and the service. Most are set in peaceful village surroundings and offer a good selection of ales to wash down their hearty meals.

One delightful place that deserves a special mention is Jose El Gallego at the Red Lion in Kirtling, about 2-3 miles out of the town centre. Jose serves up a delectable selection of authentic Spanish tapas, all made from freshly imported ingredients.