Surin Beach, Phuket, Thailand

Since the army took over power in Thailand, Phuket's beaches have been "cleaned up". That is to say that the previous forest of parasols and beach chairs are no longer allowed on the beach. All illegal buildings such as, in Surin's case, beach clubs have been removed. While some people may rue the loss of  the beach chairs, the result is a far more beautiful beach.

The Phaya Thai Royal Palace, Bangkok

Phaya Thai Palace

Thewarat Sapharom Hall

Statue of King Rama V

The Phaya Thai Palace was built in 1909 by King Rama V who also influenced the design. At the time the area was open countryside and the palace used to used as the venue for the Royal Ploughing Ceremony. The King died not long after taking up residence. During the reign of King Rama VI, Queen Saovabha, then Queen Mother lived there until her death in 1920. King Rama VI also lived there until he moved to the Grand Place in the later years of his reign.

 The Palace is located on the banks of the Samsen Canal on Rajavithee Road in the Ratchathewi district of Bangkok. It is a short walk from the Victory Monument.