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The global economic downturn has finally made its way to Southeast Asia. A growing number of regional layoffs are sweeping the area as governments report stalling growth and legislatures work to devise stimulus plans.

Here in the west, the economic crisis is fueled by home foreclosures and bank failures entering a downward spiral with rising unemployment and falling consumer confidence. In Thailand and other parts of southeast Asia, unemployed workers are deserting the city to return to their home villages to subsist on family farms.

While most of the countries in the area don’t offer unemployment benefits or even track unemployed workers, Thailand is reporting that over 2000 unemployed workers have returned to Ubon Ratchathani Province since November, and half of those in the last few weeks.

With the economy falling world-wide, tourism in areas like Phuket and Bangkok is dropping. Chambermaids, groundskeepers, waiters and other workers at five star hotels in Bangkok and other cities are being laid off in droves. With factories and construction sites laying off workers as well as retail jobs disappearing, the only option left for most is a return to village life.

Current predictions by leading economists suggest that millions of workers will lose their jobs in Singapore, Thailand, and Malaysia this year. Additional jobs could be lost in Indonesia and the Phillippines as those countries start to see their rapid growth fall off.

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations are expected to address these economic problems during a summit this weekend outside of Bangkok. While stimulus plans are on the agenda, it is widely believed that any available funds won’t be nearly enough to mitigate the growing crisis.

Like many popular tourist destinations, Phuket has to fight its reputation for parties and sun. The five star Phuket hotels are usually filled with upscale tourists and even celebrity visitors looking to relax on the beach and party in the many clubs and discos. However, there are others who come to Phuket to attend one of the many festivals, explore the island’s natural wonders, or simply soak up the unique culture of Thailand.

Beaches on Phuket offer a wide range of activities beyond lying in the sun. Windsurfing, snorkelling and sailing are all popular. Many of the beaches provide more than just sand and water. There are markets, clubs, and restaurants on many beaches. Some beaches, however, are secluded and quiet, so visitors should do their research to find the beach that suits their tastes and needs.

Nature lovers will want to check out the Khao Phra Thaeo Wildlife park. It a protected area of virgin forest and endangered species, both plant and animal. There are several beautiful waterfalls as well as the Gibbon Rehabilitation Project.

The island hosts a number of cultural festivals and celebrations throughout the year. Scheduling a trip to coincide with one of them can only enrich the vacation experience. Some of the more colorful and popular of these are the Chao Le (Sea Gypsy) Boat Floating Festival, the Patong Carnival, and the Vegetarian Festival.

Known as a modern cosmopolitan capital, Bangkok has managed to preserve its uniquely Thai culture even while becoming a major center for commerce and business in the twenty-first century. Visitors to Thailand’s capital will have many opportunities to absorb the exciting and exotic Thai culture and perhaps learn a little of the history and heritage of this unique region.

While the city is home to modern conveniences such as skyscraper office buildings, urban shopping malls, and world-class restaurants, its also where you’ll find traditional temples and mosques, centuries old village homes, and wonderfully preserved palaces. As the city grows in international importance, business visitors will find technological amenities at the best lodgings in Bangkok as well as convenient shopping and restaurants, and modern transportation options– not everyone rides around in a tuk-tuk.

Bangkok offers an amazing array of museums and galleries to appeal to the cultural tourist. The National Gallery of Thailand, the Chalerm Krung Theater, the National Museum, and the Bangkok Metropolitan Museum of Contemporary Art are just a few of the venues to explore. Historical sites of interest include the Suan Pakkad Palace, the Ancient City, the Vimanmek Mansion Museum, and the Anantasamakhom Throne Hall.

The city hosts anumber of annual festivals and celebrations as well as recognizing fifteen public holidays. Scheduling a trip to the city during events such as the Bangkok Songkran Festival (Thai New Year), or the Birthday Celebrations of the King and Queen of Thailand will provide unique insights into Thai culture. Or you can stroll through the many parks, gardens, and animal preserves in the city to get a feel for the natural wonders Thailand has to offer as well as soak in the slower pace of this charming city.