The Full Moon Party in Thailand

Throughout the year as the full moon rises, Koh Phangan’s Haad Rin beach comes to life. Close to 10,000 residents and visitors converge on the Thailand beach once a month to celebrate what is considered the most alluring moon in the world. As the moon reaches its fullest point, it casts light into the sandy beach below providing a perfect setting for a large party.

The Full Moon Party starts at dusk. Tables are set up along the sandy beaches’ many restaurants and clubs and small oil lamps are lit to provide light while the moon reaches its apex. Music is played at each of the locations located along Haad Rin beach, food vendors set up their booths, and beverages, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic, are sold to the crowds. Dancing, singing, and even fireworks provide a festive atmosphere for all who make it to this long stretch of beach. Throughout the year, the Gulf of Thailand’s warm waters also make it possible for partiers to enjoy the full moon from within the water. One of the best things about the Full Moon Party is that entrance to the beach is free. The only thing you will pay for are your food and drinks.

Establishments where the party is hosted include:

* Backyard Club
* Beach House Club
* Cactus Bar
* Drop Inn
* Orchid
* Outback Bar
* Paradise
* The Rock
* Tommy’s
* Vinyl Club
* Zoom Bar

For 2008, the party will be held on:

* January 22
* February 22
* March 21
* April 20
* May 20
* June 18
* July 19
* August 16
* September 14
* October 14
* November 12
* December 12
* Christmas Day
* New Year’s Eve

Make sure you keep your identification in a safe place back at your hotel. Pickpockets are plentiful during this event. Avoid bringing your purse with you. Carry your ID and money tucked in your front pants pocket or in your bra where thieves are very unlikely to get hold of it.

Never go to the beach barefoot. Broken glass is common at the Full Moon Party, so wear comfortable shoes. Do not accept drinks from strangers, date rape drugs are available in Thailand. Also do not purchase drugs, even marijuana, from strangers, no matter how tempted you might be. Penalties in Thailand for those with drugs are much stronger than in the United States and your consulate will not be able to keep you from going to jail for what can be a very long time. While you may think marijuana is a mild drug, it still comes with extremely stiff penalties if you are caught with it in your possession.

Nevertheless, the Full Moon Party in Thailand is one of the best beach parties to be found!

10 Honeymoon Vacation Ideas in Hong Kong

If you’re looking to honeymoon in Hong Kong, the city has an abundance of history, art, culture, and exciting city life. Here are the top 10 honeymoon vacation ideas in Hong Kong.

10. Tour the New Territories
You can learn a lot about the history and culture of Hong Kong by touring the New Territories. You can tour the FanLing Apiary, walking through orchards and blooms, or visit the Hoi Pa Village, an old Hakka settlement, or walk the Ping Shan Heritage Trail to see the only historic pagoda in Hong Kong, amongst other ancient buildings and relics from hundreds of years ago.

9. Shopping Hong Kong Style
If you want to shop ‘til you drop there are three interconnected malls in Kowloon – Harbour City, Ocean Centre, and Ocean Terminal which make up over 750 stores and restaurants. This is one of the biggest shopping centers in Asia!

8. Macau
Macau is a quaint little island in Hong Kong full of history. Visit the Temple of Kun Yam (Goddess of Mercy), Barrier Gate (the official crossing point to China), the Ruins of St. Paul’s Cathedral, the Taipa Bridge and in the evenings spend your time and your money at the Lisboa Casino. Visit the Macau city guide for more information.

7. Cheung Chau
Cheung Chau is an island in Hong Kong that has its own charm and history. Visit the Pak Tai Temple, the religious center of Cheung Chau, and if you happen to be there in May, you can experience the famous Bun Festival. If you have a sense of adventure, the Cheung Po Tsai Cave is the place where a famous pirate kept his stolen treasure. You can take a boat ride over and see what you can find! When you’re done sightseeing, relax on the Tung Wan Beach.

6. Ocean Park
Ocean Park is the largest entertainment complex and theme park in Hong Kong. It is Hong Kong’s Sea World with rides, a shark aquarium, a dolphin and sea lion show, the world’s largest reef aquarium, giant pandas, and cable cars to take you through the park. It’s a fun way to spend your honeymoon. Check the official site for Ocean Park for details.

5. Lantau Island
Lantau Island is a nice departure from the hustle and bustle of Hong Kong Island, and its even bigger than Hong Kong Island. In fact, it’s the biggest island in Hong Kong and has quaint little fishing towns, the Giant Buddha on the mountain, and a scenic cable car ride.

4. Lamma Island
Lamma Island is a great place to honeymoon if you enjoy the outdoors. Start off by taking a leisurely stroll along Family trail from Yung Shue Wan to Sok Kwu Wan ferry dock. At the end, enjoy a delicious seafood dinner. There are no high rise buildings or cars allowed on Lamma Island, so it’s the perfect getaway to take a hike, watch the boats in the harbor, and enjoy the local food.

3. Sha Tin
During your honeymoon in Sha Tin, take the train to the Sha Tin Racecourse to see one of the world’s finest racecourses in Hong Kong’s largest park - Penfold Park. If you have a love for the arts, visit the Hong Kong Museum of Art and the Hong Kong Heritage Museum to gain an understanding of the culture and history of Hong Kong. And, for romantic accommodations, choose the Royal Park Hotel with views of the Shing Mun River and only steps away from the New Town Plaza, one of the largest shopping centers in Hong Kong.

2. Hong Kong Island
For the perfect honeymoon on Hong Kong Island, reserve a room at the luxury, five-star Four Seasons Hotel. You won’t be disappointed! For a different dining experience, take a boat to the Jumbo Floating Restaurant to enjoy traditional Chinese cuisine in glamorous décor. And, then take the tram to Victoria Peak for a spectacular view of the city’s skyline!

1. Kowloon for Romance
The best place for first time visitors to Hong Kong is Kowloon. Take an evening stroll on the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade and look across the harbor to see the tall buildings lit up. Or ride on the top deck of the Star Ferry to see fantastic views of the city. Visit Kowloon Park during the day to experience the calm of a serene garden set in the center of a bustling city. And, make sure to stay at the elegant Hyatt Regency for a memorable honeymoon vacation!