River Kwai Bridge Week

River Kwai Bridge Week

Date : 27 November - 8 December 2009
Venue : River Kwai Bridge, Mueang District, Kanchanaburi
Each year in late November to early December, the world famous River Kwai Bridge built by Allied prisoners-of-war
during World War II, becomes the focal point of celebrations.
Event highlights include historical and archaeological exhibits, a carnival, folk and cultural performances, rides on
World War II vintage trains, and a spectacular light and sound presentation re-enacting the bridge’s World War II legacy.
Watch the light-and-sound show in remembrance of the bridge and the construction of the "Death Railway" during World War II
(There are 4 sets of headphones available in English, Japanese, Chinese and German). A wealth of entertainment and Exhibitions are on display.



Contact :
- TAT Kanchanaburi Office, Te l : 66 (0) 3451 1200, 66 (0) 3451 2500
  Fax : 66 (0) 3451 1200, E-mai l: tatkan@tat.or.th
- Kanchanaburi Provincial Administration Office, Tel. : 66 (0) 3451 1778
website : www.tourismthailand.org , www.Kanchanaburi.go.th

The 22nd Standard Charter Bangkok Marathon

Bangkok Marathon draws a record turnout
The 22nd Standard Charter Bangkok Marathon, 22 November,
at the front of Wat Phra Kaew on Sanamchai road, Bangkok.

The Standard Charter Bangkok Marathon, 22 November, is now a firm fixture on the Asian marathon circuit attracting top runners and thousands of enthusiasts many of whom travel with their families for a welcome holiday at the close of the race.
But before the holiday can begin, runners need to cover 42 km on a course that wends its way  through historical districts, past city landmarks, such as the National Museum and the Chao Phraya River to a finishing line in front of the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew (Emerald Buddha) on Sanan Chai Road, close to the vast parade ground known as Sanam Luang.

On two scores, this marathon is special. It attracts an enormous turnout of more than 50,000 participants, at all fitness levels and categories. It is also one of the few marathons in Asia that beats the tropical heat by starting at 0200, when Bangkok’s usually grid-lock streets are almost deserted.
The event has a time limit of seven hours for all participants with staggered starts that take into account the various performance levels of the runners.



For example, runners who estimate they can finish the course in five to seven hours assemble at the starting line on the road next to the Grand Palace at 0200. They have to be back at the same point by 0900, the cut-off time for all participants.
Wheelchair participants in the full marathon start at 0320, while elite runners with times of less than five hours leave at 0330
It makes for a very sensible and healthy solution that beats most of the heat and humidity with the last participants crossing the finish line  three hours after sunrise at the very latest.
The event has some high powered support from Tourism Authority of Thailand, National Jogging Association of Thailand, Bangkok Metropolitan Administration, and the Ministry of Tourism and Sports and they have determined that this event should show case the city’s tourism appeal and be open to the widest possible participation.


Not surprisingly, the event has a strong appeal to not only semi professionals racing for gold and enthusiasts determined to improve on their best times, but also to ordinary folk, who have set themselves an easier goal related to their favourite sport of jogging.
There are five categories including the 42.195-km Marathon; 42.195-km wheelchair. For those who are less ambitious they can join a 10.55-km quarter marathon, which is no mean feat as the pace is much faster and competition tough at all age levels. To appeal to the widest audience possible there is also a 5 km Walk-Fun Run and a Walk for Health and Environment. The award ceremony starts at 0800 for the marathon itself followed by presentations to winners in all other categories

Visit: www.bkkmarathon.com
Call National Jogging Association of Thailand at 66 2628 8361

The 21st Monkey Party

Party tricks courtesy of Lopburi’s monkeys
The 21st Monkey Party, 29 November, at Phra Prang Sam Yod, Mueang district, Lopburi province.
This is perhaps the most comical event you could witness on holiday, a claim that can be attested by the video clips that have found a place to park even on You Tube.  A local businessman started this bizarre grand bash in the small historical town of Lopburi that stands on the northern rail line, about 150 km from Bangkok.
He was concerned about the welfare of the town’s monkey population residing in one of town’s historical pagodas. But he was also wondering why this town that played a prominent role in the country’s history in the 17th century is largely ignored by international tourists.
So he set about organising a grand party for the monkeys that roam freely around the town’s historical centre near the railway station. Of course, the monkeys take the buffet spread in their stride feasting with great relish on the finest Chinese cuisine the town can provide, all under the spotlight of TV channel crews, who run in circles trying to gain the best angle possible.
They have to be quick. Monkeys are not well known for table etiquette and despite the fact that this annual party is now in its 10th year, they haven’t learned any manners at all.



It is all part of the local’s community scheme to get some attention for a “living museum” town centre, where visitors can visit former palaces and buildings that were once used by one of the country’s revered monarchs during the golden Ayutthaya period.
Although the city dates back 1,000 years or more, to when it was simply called Lavo, it is best known as Thailand’s second capital. In 1666, King Narai, the Great, built a summer palace and resided in the town for around eight months of the year.  It was here that the King granted an audience to the French Ambassador as well as other foreign dignitaries who travelled by boat up the Lop Buri River from Ayutthaya, the formal seat of government.  Including temples and government administration buildings, the palace was used until the King passed away in 1688. In the early 60s the complex and gardens was renovated and turned into an interesting museum.
Today, very few foreign tourists spare an overnight to explore the town’s historical assets. They usually visit on day trips, many of them arriving on the early morning train from Bangkok. They tour the sights and catch the train in the evening on an overnight trip that takes them to Chiang Mai.
Lopburi, from a historic perspective is worth more than an afternoon peep and that is apparently why the monkeys are treated to a party to give this largely forgotten destination a plug in the media.
At least that way we get to see what we have missed both in historical attractions and the Chinese delicacies that are served by the town’s best kitchens.
The event is hosted by Lopburi Inn Group. Call Lopburi Inn Hotel at 036 412 300 or Email: monkey@lopburiinnresort.com and monkeypartys@yahoo.com.

Bang Sai Loi Krathong Tam Prathip Festival

Bang Sai Loi Krathong Tam Prathip Festival
Date : 1 - 2 November 2009
Venue : Bang Sai Royal Folk Arts and Crafts Centre under the Royal patronage of H.M.Queen Sirikit, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya

Relive the glorious past of Ayutthaya on this atmospheric night. Enjoy the traditional procession of beauty queens from all 4 regions and experience the relaxing surroundings of a floating market demonstration.

Contact:
- TAT Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Tel : 66 (0) 3524 6076-7
- Bang Sai Royal Folk Arts and Crafts Centre, Tel : 66 (0) 3536 6090-2
Website : www.loikrathong.net
www.tourismthailand.org
E-mail : tatyutya@tat.or.th

Loi Krathong Sai Festival

Loi Krathong Sai Festival
Date : 1 - 2 November 2009
Venue : Banks of Ping River,Tak

Highlights :
An exceptional opportunity for you to experience the atmosphere of joining the Krathong Sai (floating coconut-shell krathong in line) contest, in order to win His Majesty the King’s trophy. Other remarkable activities will include the floating lanterns of the Royal Family, the procession of the Royal Krathong and lantern, the illumination of Krathong Sai, light and sound presentation, fireworks, water curtain presentation in “The Legend of Krathong Sai”, the longest Krathong Sai, local cultural shows, food and OTOP products.

Contact:
TAT Tak, Tel : 66 (0) 5551 4341-3
Website : www.loikrathong.net , www.krathongsaitak.net
www.tourismthailand.org
E-mail : tattak@tat.or.th

Tour of Mekong

Tour of Mekong

Here’s a fun introduction to a fascinating way to travel in Thailand.

Previously called the Mekong Challenge, organisers renamed this annual bike ride “Tour of the Mekong,” in 2008.
Whatever the name, it is a testament to the growing popularity of recreational cycling in Thailand and this year’s event splits into two distinct routes that have already attracted a record turnout.

Tourism Authority of Thailand’s office in Chiang Rai organises the event with the Bike Club of Thailand assisting with the logistics.

The objective is to follow a scenic route as close as possible to the Mekong River that forms the border with Thailand, but takes an extensive diversion east through the steep mountain valleys to Luang Prabang in Laos. It ultimately meanders its way back to the border with Thailand near Chiang Kham in Loei province.

That explains the international and domestic categories. The more intrepid riders, who pay a flat Bt7,000 to join, can follow the river through the heartlands of Laos, while the domestic route ( Bt1,000 ride fee) concentrates on country byways in northern Thailand through Chiang Rai and Phayao provinces.

Scheduled to start in Chiang Rai, 21 October, the riders head for Chiang Saen and Chiang Khong where the international group crosses the Mekong River to Huaysai in Laos, leaving the domestic group to head south through some very picturesque but tough mountain country to Phayao.

The group heading into Laos will board boats for some sections of the journey. Whether on roads, or river, they will travel to Luang Prabang, Pakmong, Udomchai, Luang Namtha and Vieng Phu Kha all in Laos. They will be on the road from 24 October 1 November, while their domestic counterparts will end their trip 24 October in Phayao, Thailand.

The joy of this experience is that you don’t have to be a professional cyclist to arrive at the finishing line. This is a fun event for all levels of skills and fitness. Bikes are mainly the mountain genre, tough and comfortable, but there a few riders who join the event on more fancy road machines.

Whatever, the choice the organisers offer a service van, back-up and support to make the ride manageable.

There are two objectives for the ride. One is to promote leisure cycling as a fitness sport in Thailand, while the other is to demonstrate the ease of travel between Thailand and Laos.

Perhaps there is just one concern for foreign visitors who might consider a trip of this kind in Thailand. “Is it safeω”

The answer is an emphatic, yes, from hundreds of happy cyclists, who pedal along the nation’s country roads every day. Thailand is an amazing destination for all kinds of cycling. It has an extensive network of sealed, but quiet country roads, Thai drivers are courteous towards cyclists and there is bountiful fuel stops – restaurants and hotels where ever you decide to roam.

The top spots for cycle touring are in the North from bases in Chiang Rai, Nan, Chiang Mai (outside the city) and the entire Northeast following roads bordering the Mekong River. Approximately 70 km north of the capital, Bangkok, cycle country begins in earnest at Ayutthaya on a route north that follows the Chao Phraya River basin all on secondary roads.

The Tour of the Mekong is an ideal way to start a love affair with cycling in Thailand.

Call Mekong Bike Club at Tel; 053 791 234 and 083 208 2280.

Yi Peng Festival

Date : 27 October - 2 November 2009
Venue : Tha Phae Gate, banks of Ping River, Chiang Mai Municipal Office, Chiang Mai

HIghlights :
An amazing procession of hanging lanterns, Krathong design contest, Miss Yi Peng beauty contest, light and sound presentation in Ping River, the ancient Thai Lanna Krathong activities, local cultural performances, and local handicrafts market in Lanna style.


Contact :
- TAT Chiang Mai, Tel : 66 (0) 5324 8604, 66 (0) 5324 8607
Website : www.loikrathong.net
www.tourismthailand.org
www.tatchiangmai.org
E-mail : tatchiangmai@tat.or.th

Phuket Vegetarian Festival

Phuket Vegetarian Festival
Date : 17 – 26 October 2009
Venue : Various Chinese shrines, Mueang District, Phuket



The Thai-Chinese in Phuket have long passed on the vegetarian festival to purify mind and soul by refraining from meat consumption and meditating. Symbolising the presence of the deities throughout the festival are 9 lanterns lit up and placed aloft on Ko Teng poles. On the 6th day of the festival, there will be religious processions and incredible displays of face-and-body piercing. On the last day, there will be a “Koi Han” ceremony to exorcize ill fortune and a farewell ceremony for the deities at night.
Contact:
TAT Phuket, Tel : 66 (0) 7621 1036, 66 (0) 7621 2213
Website : www.tourismthailand.org

Tak Bat Devo Festival

Tak Bat Devo Festival
Date : 5 October 2009
Venue : Wat Sangkat Rattana Khiri, Uthai Thani Province



The traditional of "Tak Bat Devo" was derived from the word "Devorohana" which means the return of Lord Buddha from Heaven to Earth. According to a Buddhist myth, after Lord Buddha had proclaimed his doctrines and sermoned his father and relatives, he recollected his mother who died after giving birth to him and was born again in Heaven.

In hie 7th lent’ he went up to heaven to deliver a sermon to his mother the entire period of the Rains Retreat (3 months). At the end of the Rains Retreat (Ok Phansa Day) which falls on the first day of the wanning moon of the eleventh lunar month, Lord Buddha then returned to earth and was greeted by a crawd of hid disciples and Buddhist believers who were waiting to offer him food.

To commemorate this event at the end of the annual Buddhist Rains Retreat, Uthai Thani Buddhist believers proudly organize the "Tak Bat Devo" Festival as ana annual tradition at Wat Sangkat Rattana Khiri at the top of Sakaekrang mountain. Almost being the only festival in Thailand with the same atmosphere as in the Buddhist myth. It attracts the large inf;ux of believers from all over the country to participate.

In addition, there are still more local art, culture and tradition, and various tourist attractions in Uthai Thani waiting for visitors to experience.

Information :
Uthai Thani Municipality Office, Tel. +66 (0) 5651 2005

Bang Fai Phaya Nak (Naga Fireball)

Bang Fai Phaya Nak (Naga Fireball)

This extraordinary miracle always occurs at the beginning of the full moon night in the eleventh lunar month (End of Buddhist Lent). It can be seen along the Mekong River in the districts of Mueang, Phon Phisai, Pak Khat, Bung Kan, Tha Bo, Si Chiang Mai and Sangkhom. Bang Fai Phaya Nak is a term used for red and pinkish fire balls, which according to belief, belong to Phaya Nak or the great serpent of the underwater world. On the day marking the End of Buddhist Lent, a great number of people come to witness this phenomenon.

Naga Fireball Festival in Nong Khai

It remains a mystery that never ceases to puzzle both visitors and locals alike. Just what is the origin and nature of the fireballs that fly from the surface of the Mekong River high into the night sky for all to see?
Locals swear there is absolutely no doubt at all about the origin of the fireballs. Naga, the serpent reportedly dwelling in the murky currents of this mighty river, propels fireballs skyward, probably to remind villagers to treat this life-giving river with respect.
Of course, there are detractors, researchers who have spent years of study attempting to explain away the fireball phenomenon, all to no avail.

Some say it is an elaborate hoax, but the only way to find out is to travel to Nong Khai and check out river scene and the carnivals that villagers organise to celebrate the now famous legendary serpent.
Festivities run from 10 to 16 October, along the Mekong River bank, in Phon Pisai district in Nong Khai province. There are also corresponding celebrations on the Lao side of the river and no shortage of theories on whether Thailand’s neighbours, on the opposite bank, may know more than they are admitting on what causes the spectacle.

But there is no denying the fact that there is something almost mystical that causes the fireballs to erupt from the surface of the river, and villagers are taking no chances, hence the religious activities at various temples in the district to appease the Naga.
Visitors can participate in a traditional "Tak Bat Thevo" ceremony, or the early morning alms giving to monks. It involves offering sticky rice wrapped in coconut leaves, presented on the important final days of the three-month Buddhist Lent.
In the evenings, during the festival week, people gather at the river bank for the Naga procession and cultural performance that reflect the rural village traditions of the northeast region.

If all goes to plan the highlight of the trip will be the amazing sight of the Naga fireballs erupting into the sky, a phenomenon that is very likely to prompt some light hearted banter and arguments at riverside food stalls over glasses of ale or the local rice whisky on their origin.

The most convenient way to reach Nong Khai is to take one of the many daily flights offered from Bangkok to Udon Thani, either on the national airline Thai Airways International, or one of the low-cost airlines. The flight takes 50 minutes and from Udon Thani, mini buses offer a 40 minute transfer to Nong Khai. An alternative is to take the rail service that runs every evening from Bangkok to Nong Khai.

Contact :
TAT Udon Thani, Tel. : 66 (0) 4232 5406-7
Nong Khai Provincial Administration Office, Tel. : 66 (0) 4242 0323
Website : www.tourismthailand.org
E-mail : tatudon@tat.or.th

Buffalo Racing

Buffalo Racing

You could be forgiven for thinking that a domesticated buffalo is not built for sprinting, but in Chonburi town, the gateway to resorts along the east coast of the Gulf of Thailand, farmers have managed to tweak a turn of speed from these working animals that is nothing short of amazing.

The annual Buffalo races, 28 September - 4 October 2009, are a hotly contested series of sprints across on an open space in front of the town’s municipal offices.
Tourists and the town’s residents turn out for these amazing races that have been featured in the past on CNN and the BBC as a must-see event.


The races are taken very seriously by the owners of the buffaloes. Prizes for the first nose past the finishing line guarantee owners go to considerable lengths to ensure their buffaloes are in tip-top condition.
Clouds of dust rise as these hefty animals pound down the short course at an alarming speed, reminiscent of a stampede. The crowd roars in support of the favourites and the atmosphere is as an enthralling as watching thoroughbred race horses.
Admittedly, mites slower than a race horse, but the buffaloes are no slouches when it comes to making a short dash for glory.

Although this day of fun and competition would succeed with just the buffaloes as the celebrities, there are other activities to make it a worthwhile outing for families.
A fair with food stalls and handicrafts appeals to visitors who love authentic Thai food, snacks and sweets. Then there are the rides for children, concerts of folk music and, of course, a beauty contest where the prize is the honour of being declared Miss Buffalo.
Not exactly the most adhering of titles for an aspiring beauty queen, but it does not seem to deter contestants from seeking the limelight of the catwalk.
Here is a festival that provides photo opportunities to capture an unusual adaptation of the 100-metre dash. Well worth seeing, is always the conclusion of those who make the effort to travel to Chonburi.

For more information
TAT Call Center 1672
TAT Pattaya Office Tel. +66 (0) 3842 7667

Sakon Nakhon Wax Castle Festival

Sakon Nakhon Wax Castle Festival
Date : 1 - 4 October 2009
Venue : Sanam Ming Mueang, Suan Somdej Phra Srinagarindra, Sakon Nakhon

One of the biggest events in the Ok Phansa Day (The end of Buddhist Lent), the assemble of the wonderful wax castles which are created from the talent artists in the province. Experience the magnificent Wax Castle Procession and feast your eyes on the wonderful tradition of Sakon Nakhon people.


Contact :
TAT Nakhon Phanom, Tel : 66 (0) 4251 3490-1
Website : www.tourismthailand.org
E-mail : tatphnom@tat.or.th

Amazing Thailand Adventure Race Series

Amazing Thailand Adventure Race Series

The Ibis Koh Samui Trophy brings the new, spectacular and fast growing sport of Adventure Racing to the South of Thailand. Supported by Ibis, The Tourism Authority of Thailand, the Tourism Association of Koh Samui and the Thai Hotel Association of Koh Samui, this inaugural Adventure Race is set to attract 150 teams from around the world. Scheduled on September 19 and part of the Amazing Thailand Adventure Race Series, the race will start and finish from the magnificent Bohput beach in front of the IBIS hotel in Bohput. Adventure Racing is a highly visual and dynamic sport genre, stretching competitors to their limits. It is a sport that is rapidly capturing the imagination of sport people in Thailand and around the world.

“After the tremendous success of the other races of the Series in Kanchanaburi, Nong Chok and Chiang Mai, it was important to have a competition in the South” explains Serge Henkens, the Race Director and managing director of Active Management Asia.

20% of the sponsor’s donations will go to environment friendly initiatives brought by “The Green Island Project”, a local green association.

“Despite 10 years of unbelievable development, we wanted to show that the Island has a lot to offer and is still a paradise destination”continues Henkens. “Well-known for its magnificent beaches, Samui also offers fantastic opportunities for Adventure and Great Outdoor lovers. The Island has all the ingredients for a memorable race: the blue ocean, forests, mountains, water falls, sandy beaches and a very rich fauna and flora. The perfect recipe for great Adventure Racing” concludes Henkens.

The Koh Samui Trophy will offer 4 disciplines: Running, Cycling, Kayaking and Swimming.
The competitors will hike and run through unspoiled jungle, paddle and swim on the turquoise waters of the gulf of Thailand and cycle over the hills with spectacular views on the ocean.

As we offer 2 divisions, Adventure (easier course) and Extreme (longer course), the race is really accessible to everyone! continues Henkens. The winners of the extreme division are expected to complete the course in approximately 4:30. The fastest team in the Adventure division is planned to finish in around 3:30h.

The Race offers 2 divisions:
 Adventure (Short course for newcomers and W.E. warriors)
 Extreme (Long course for confirmed athletes and experienced Racers)

Disciplines: Running, Kayaking, Biking, Swimming and other mystery tests
Teams of 2 racers
Categories will be: Men, Women, Mixed, Masters Men (over 80 years combined) and Seniors Men (over 100 years combined)

About IBIS:
Ibis, the worldwide economy hotel brand of the Accor group, offers consistent quality accommodation and services in all its hotels, for the best local value.
Ibis Samui is the 4th Ibis hotel opened in Thailand after ibis Phuket Patong, Ibis Pattaya and Ibis Bangkok Sathorn.
Ibis is also reinforcing its presence this year in Bangkok with the Ibis Bangkok Nana, opened in March and Ibis Phuket Kata opening end of the year.

About Active Management Asia
Adventure racing is a new sport that has exploded in popularity across Asia and Thailand. Active Management Asia is leading that growth in Thailand with its highly popular Amazing Adventure Race Series.
Now in its third year of operation, Active Management Asia has established an international reputation
for solid logistics and challenging race courses. These non-stop races, ranging in length from 4-8
hours, require teams to run, trek, mountain bike and paddle, while navigating a course through the wilderness.
Likened to an expedition with a stopwatch, adventure racing requires teamwork, perseverance, strategy and determination.

For more information:
Active Management Asia Co., Ltd
Khun Ying (Thai-English)
Tel: 02 7189581-2
Fax: 02 7189583
Email: info@active-asia.com
Website: www.kohsamuitrophy.com www.active-asia.com

the sixth Bhumibol Dam International Mountain Bike Championship

Bikers brave the rough stuff



Mountain bikers gather at one of Thailand’s most scenic dams for a series of races and fun activities.

Bumping over rough trails is not everyone’s idea of having fun, but medical science appears to support the idea that riding your mountain bike over a boulder-strewn course is actually good for building bone density.

If you need an excuse to join the sixth Bhumibol Dam International Mountain Bike Championship, 29 to 30 August, that might be it. But it is more likely to be that the venue, for this fun event, is the scenic Bhumibol Dam, surrounded by forest-covered hills, in Sam Ngao district, Tak province.

This weekend of fun rides and serious competition is a firm fixture in Thailand’s annual sports events calendar. It is remarkably popular because it focuses on mountain bikes as opposed to the majority of cycle-related events that are either a triathlon with competitors using triathlon or time-trial bikes, or the tradition road races that favour super light road bikes.

Most leisure cyclists own a mountain bike so here is an opportunity to take the family on an interesting trip to Tak province, a destination that has a reputation for serving up superb soft-adventure options as well as a famous dam where you can relax and enjoy nature.

Backing the event are the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand, Tourism Authority of Thailand and the Sports Authority of Thailand. Created to promote an interest in outdoor sports and also encourage ecotourism at both national and international levels, the races underscore the beauty of a province that is not on the main tourist trail.

For many mountain bikers and their families this is the highlight of the year, a reunion of friends from both Thailand and overseas, who share a passion for mountain bikes. Participants of all ages gather at the starting line on the crest of the spectacular Bhumibol Dam for two days of fun activities and serious races.

This very scenic location provides a variety of race routes that will both challenge the semi-pro mountain bike racers and also please recreational riders.

It is really up the participants as to how far they wish to push their bikes and bodies. If they want the thrill of descending steep slopes through jungle terrain, or the steady pace of a trail over rolling hills that border the reservoir, the organisers have a choice of categories to deliver the right experience.



There are six categories to choose from :


Long distance 60 km;
family 16 km
tour biking 10 km
cyclo-cross on the dam's crest, five km.
international race 39 km.
amateur 24 km.

Just to ensure all the hard physical activity is balanced with lots of fun, the organisers encourage visitors and participants to display vintage two wheelers in an “ancient bike contest”. The line up is impressive with some participants showing off bikes that have serious historical value, while others are more exotic, possibly bordering on weird.

On the sidelines, folk music bands entertain to create a family atmosphere, while there are even handicraft stalls supplied by shops under the One Tambon, One Product project, a national initiative to support village handicrafts.

To round off the fun, bike shops attend to sell equipment at discount prices. All this is part of a healthy experience for biking enthusiasts, who usually discover that they need to make just one more purchase to round off the beauty, or technical excellence, of their prized bikes.
Bhumibol Dam is located in Tak province, 426 km north of Bangkok, just off Highway 1.
The race site, at the crest of the dam, is 60 km north of Tak provincial town, where most of the hotel accommodation is located.

Call TAT Tak office at 055 514341-3 or visit : www.bhumiboldam.egat.com

The 11th Annual Central International Watch Fair 2009

The 11th Annual Central International Watch Fair 2009
Mesmerizing Southeast Asia
A watch lover's dream... tempting offers and newest timepiece innovations

Explore this more than 5 Billion Baht galaxy of watch collections from over 180 brands
See the latest watch collections and limited-edition masterpiece models, plus exclusive, only at Central new-brand debuts
Get more from your investment in time with these irresistible offers :
10 - 50% off, 0% interest installments and valuable gifts from Central, plus exciting additional surprise offers waiting for you!
25 Aug - 27 Sep 09

Venue : The Event Hall, 3rd fl, Central Chidlom and The Watches Dept., Central Chidlom, Lardprao, Bangna and Pinklao
Remark : See more terms and conditions at sales counters.

For more information, please contact Public Relations Department, Central Chidlom
Tel : 0 2793 7420 or visit : www.central.co.th

Hua Hin Regatta 2009

Hua Hin Regatta 2009
Date : 30 July-3 August 2009
Venue : Hua Hin, Prachuap Khiri Khan

At the close of the month, 30 July, sailors gather for the annual Hua Hin Regatta 2008 that will test their skills over three days of competition. The coveted trophies are the Royal Vega Rudder trophy of His Majesty the King, Super Mod National Championship trophy from HM the King, OK Dinghy National Championship trophy from HM the Queen, and Princess Cup for Optimist Championship of the late HRH Princess Galyani Vadhana.

Hua Hin is considered the traditional home for the country’s sailing community, due to HM the King’s keen interest in the sport. A Southeast Asia Games winner in the sailing category, HM the King built his own racing dinghy and helped to establish the Super Mod class and is an enthusiastic patron of sailing resulting in this annual regatta being held in his honour off the coast of Hua Hin in sight of the palace.

For More Information : www.yrat.or.th



(All pictures form www.huahin4u.com)

Pattaya Marathon 2009

Pattaya Marathon 2009
Date : 19 July 2009
Venue : Pattaya, Chon Buri

The Pattaya International Marathon is one of the most famous marathons in Thailand that is organized yearly. Every year, there are many runners participating from various countries. In all, there are three races ; the full marathon (42 Km), the half marathon (21 Km) and the quarter marathon (10 Km).

More information :
TAT Chon Buri Office, Tel. 66 (0) 3842 7667, 66 (0) 3842 8750
Patayta City Hall, Tel. 66 (0) 3825 3129
www.pattaya-marathon.com

International Wax Sculpture

International Wax Sculpture

Date : 1 - 31 July 2009
Venue : Thung Si Mueang District, Ubon Ratchathani

Join the alms-giving for Asalha Puja and the Khao Phansa Buddhist ceremony. Participate in the ceremony of welcoming His Majesty the King’s royal candle and the international candle-carving competition from various countries, as well as taste “Pha Khao Laeng” , a local food especially prepared for tourists.

Hi Light of Ubon Ratchathani Candle Festival 2008 & the 3rd International Wax Sculpture

Contact :
TAT Ubon Ratchathani Office, Tel : 66 (0) 4524 3770-1, 66 (0) 4525 0714
Ubon Ratchathani Provincial Office, Tel : 66 (0) 4525 4827
Website : www.tatuboon.org , www.guideubon.com


(pictures from www.techno.bopp.go.th/newsclassroom/index.php...)

Tour de Isan 2009

Tour de Isan 2009
Date : 27 June - 7 July 2009

The 2nd Annual Tour de Isan is an 11 day charity bicycle tour through the Northeast region of Thailand, known as "Isan." This event starts in the town of Nong Khai and the Thai/Laos border and then winds 800 kilometers along the mighty Mekong River to Ubon Ratchathani with some days off along the route for rest, relaxation, and sightseeing. We will take you through the emerald green rice fields of the northeast heartland and show you the beauty and ecological importance of the Mekhong River. This ride shows you where few tourists have ventured before and finishes in the city of Ubon Ratchathani during their lovely Annual Candle Festival.

All riders must raise a minimum of US$ 1000 in donations to participate in the Tour de Isan 2009.

For further information
Website : www.tourdeasia.org ,www.tourdethailand.com/tour-de-isaan.html

Baby panda joins celebrity list

Baby panda joins celebrity list

Thailand animal lovers celebrate birth of a panda at Chiang Mai Zoo.

This has to be the Southeast Asia’s most famous zoo after global TV networks turned their lens on a remarkable new born baby; a female panda born at Chiang Mai Zoo, late May.

Mum and Dad, Lin Hui and Xuang Xuang, have lived at the northern Thailand zoo for the last six years, under a loan agreement with the Chinese Government that lasts just 10 years.

TV cameras from all major channels focused on the tiny tot made all the more famous because it was conceived by artificial insemination and marked a first for the Thai veterinarian team. Thailand joins the US and Japan as the only countries to breed pandas in captivity.
Born 27 May, after six years of almost comical efforts to get the female panda pregnant, the birth surprised even zoo officials. It turned out to be the month’s good new story rising above the usual negative news that swamps TV viewers.

It was all the more fascinating in the context of past efforts by zoo officials to get the two Chinese pandas to mate naturally. Zoo keepers arranged a mock wedding and even showed them porn movies of other pandas mating. It was a dismal failure, until medical science came to the rescue.

Overnight, the baby was a world celebrity and the only sad note was news that within two years the baby panda would have to return to its homeland.

The panda family is the biggest draw at Chiang Mai Zoo, earning a treasure chest in gate fees that have reached an astronomical figure. You would have to be a football star to attract a fan club of the size the panda family has drawn to the zoo.

Tourists and residents flock to this northern zoo to watch these rare creatures in their posh quarters.

Leading the family’s admirers, Thailand’s Prime Minister, Abhisit Vejjaijiva, says he will check out if China might be prepared to relax regulations and allow the baby to stay beyond the two years stated in the loan contract.
If successful, the baby could possibly remain with mum and dad until their stay in Thailand concludes in another four years.
While sensitive talks between PMs unfold the zoo is planning to celebrate the panda’s birth in style.
Thousands of visitors are expected to visit the zoo just to see this tiny tot a rare site for travellers interested in these cute and iconic creatures.
Since the grown-up pandas arrived, the zoo’s gate rose to around 3,000 visitors on a weekend. But there is a good deal more to see at this zoo. It is credited with being probably the best in the country and even has a night safari zoo.

There are various activities arranged by the zoo to attract visitors. This month, 12 to 21 June the zoo hosts the World Animal Art and Photo Gallery, that encourages visitors and residents to enter their favourite animal photos in a contest. They have to depict animals smiling, not an easy task if the subject is a crocodile. In addition, the zoo features a water colour painting workshop; rare animal photo auction, finger paint, photo fair and gallery. Check out www.a-plusgroup.com

Thailand Tourism Festival 2009

Thailand TourismFestival 2009
June 3 - 7, 2009
At Challenger Hall 1-2, Impact Muang Thong Thani Exhibition Centre
Pakkred District, Nonthaburi

Admission is free.

At 40,000 square metres, the Thailand Tourism Festival (TTF) is billed as the country’s largest travel and tourism showcase event that includes a vast range of activities to promote the preservation of Thai culture, traditions and local way of life.

Spectacular stage performances and live demonstrations of local arts and crafts add a colourful festive feel to the event as hundreds of professional travel and tourism operators and service providers from all regions of Thailand offer quality tourism products and services and travel specialists help individual travellers and families to plan their trips.

For first-time visitors to Thailand, TTF provides an excellent introduction to the Thai kingdom. A visit to TTF is also a quick and convenient way to get the latest updates on new tourism products and services, as well as to compare prices and shop for the best bargains and attractive deals — all in one stop.

Given the popularity of the event with Thai travellers, especially families, travel and tourism operators and service providers, particularly small and medium enterprise (SMEs) which are noted for their unique one-of-a-kind niche product offerings, turn up in strength.

The domestic travel fair is divided into 3 key zones:
- Exhibition zone
- Tourism Activities zone
- Regional Cuisines zone

TRAVEL AND TOURISM OPERATORS AND SERVICE PROVIDERS
The 2009 Thailand Tourism Festival will feature the following exhibition categories: Tour operators, airlines, hotels and resorts, car rental and Thai crafts. Travel or tourism-related state agencies and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) will also be located in this zone.

THE TOURISM ACTIVITIES ZONE
Highlights

- Cultural and Community-based Tourism
Exhibits, cultural presentations and live demonstrations in this zone offer insight into local customs and traditions. Activities undertaken reflect the local way of life. In addition to live demonstrations of traditional village crafts, enjoy the lively scenes presented by the traditional markets and floating markets.

- Ecotourism and Adventure Travel
For nature lovers, Thailand offers a tremendous diversity of natural habitats that includes land-based eco-systems, forests and mountainous landscape, waterfalls and streams, mangrove forests as well as marine eco-systems. Learn about environmentally-friendly travel and ecotourism options that will help to minimize our carbon footprint and help reverse the effects of global warming. Also make the most of this rare opportunity to learn about environmentally-friendly initiatives spearheaded by a selection of award-winning organizations. For adventure seekers, Thailand’s military camps are offering innovative Green Adventure activity programmes.

- Health Tourism
This special activity zone promotes a better understanding of health tourism. Visitors will be able to witness (or experience) a live demonstration of traditional Thai massage and the regional variations of this ancient healing technique. Leading hospitals participating in the fair will be offering visitors a basic health check-up on site. Wellness promotional packages will also be available on offer. In addition to live demonstrations of food for health and yoga for health, health and wellness professionals will also be on-hand to provide health tips and advice.

- Traditional Crafts and Souvenirs
Thai artisans are noted for their tradition of artistic excellence and superb craftsmanship. Enjoy live demonstrations of a range of village crafts from various award-winning communities throughout Thailand and shop for some of the finest hand-crafted items brought together under one roof at the Thailand Tourism Festival.

For more information please call 1672

PHUKET FILM FESTIVAL 2009

June 4 - 11, 2009
Phuket Film Festival to Turn the Spotlight on Taiwanese Film

The Phuket Film Festival is proud to announce a Spotlight on Taiwanese Film will take place during the second edition of the festival which will run June 4 - 11 2009 at the Coliseum Theaters in Phuket Town, on the beautiful international resort destination of Phuket, Thailand.

The 2009 edition of the Festival will screen over 40 award winning movies from 17 countries.

Supporting the Academy Award nominated and other award winning Taiwanese films will be directors, producers, actors and actresses traveling to the Festival from Taiwan. They will join other Festival VIPs on a special tour of the island to raise awareness of Phuket as a world-class film location providing a comprehensive range of international class production services.

Attending will be:

Keeping Watch – Fen Fen Cheng
The Most Distant Course – Liin Jing-Jie
Island Etude – En Chen
Sumimasen Love - Lin Yu-Hsien
Step by Step – Kuo Chen – ti

Producers Patrick Mao Huang and James Liu will also attend the Festival.

A number of "stars" from Taiwan will also attend the Festival in support of the "Spotlight". Talent are still being confirmed however the Festival has learned Joseph Chang and Jani Tsai will probably attend as well as Asian superstar Chie Tanaka who will be awarded the Festival's Asian Talent of the Year Award. Huai-Jhong Wu has also been confirmed to attend.

The Spotlight on Taiwanese Film is being held in line with the Festival's goal to "diversify cultural activities" on Phuket and to mark the growth of the Taiwanese film industry for film lovers around the world.

The "Spotlight" also supports the recent Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) "Two Islands, One Culture" promotional campaign held to stimulate travel between the two islands of Taiwan and Phuket.

A gala reception will be hosted by the Taipei Economic & Cultural Office in Thailand on Friday June 5, 2009

Web site: www.phuketfilmfestival.asia

Sawadee.com Regatta 2009

Sawadee.com Regatta 2009, Samui, Thailand

Announcing the Sawadee.com Regatta 2009, Samui – the 8th Samui International Yacht Regatta Bangkok, Thailand. February 2, 2009 - The 8th Samui International Yacht Regatta, now with a new title sponsor and known as the Sawadee.com Regatta 2009, Samui, will take place in Koh Samui from the 1st - 6th June .

A favourite amongst competitive and social sailors, the five day regatta is one of Asia’s leading sailing events and is also part of the Asian Yachting Grand Prix Championships. Registrations are already being received, with a full fleet expected from Thailand, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Hong Kong, Dubai and further a field.

In addition to the competitive sailing, the Sawadee.com Regatta is also about fun parties and is firmly established as a ‘must attend’ regatta on the international sailing circuit. Its headquarters will again be the Centara Grand Beach Resort, Samui, which has been the home of the regatta since its conception and that has now become synonymous with the event.

Callum Laing is the Chairman of the Regatta for the second year “Every year the regatta has gone from strength to strength and we’re really looking forward to a memorable 2009 event. In 2008 we welcomed over 300 participants from 10 countries and registrations received so far point toward the biggest Samui Regatta to date. The 2009 regatta will also provide great opportunities for individuals, families and groups to join one of the regatta spectator boats and see these races up close whilst enjoying the famous Thai hospitality”.

The Regatta will feature six classes, Racing, Premier Racing, IRC-1, Cruising, Sports Boats and Multihulls – ensuring that the on-water action is both competitive and fun to watch. In 2008, Ray Roberts and ‘Quantum Racing’ won the IRC-1 Class with Matt Allen and ‘Ichi Ban’ taking the IRC-2 honours. Kipsan Beck and ‘Pornstar’ lifted the trophy in the Sports Boats Class with Andrew Short and ‘Constanza’ securing the top Cruising Class placing. Radab Kanjanayanit and ‘Cedar Swan’ came in first in the Multihull Class.

The skipper receiving the most top placings on the eight regatta Asian circuit will also be crowned Asian Yachting Champion Skipper at the end of the sawadee.com Regatta. In 2008, it was Quantum Racing’s Ray Roberts that lifted the trophy and wore the coveted ‘Armani Blue Blazer’ that was presented at the fabulous prize giving dinner on the lawns of the Centara Grand Beach Resort at Chaweng Beach.

The 2009 regatta will also play host to the second running of the ‘Samui Junior Sailing Squadron Challenge’ – giving local children from the island the opportunity to be out on the water experiencing the excitement of competitive yacht racing. The challenge is led by John Stall – one of the original founders of the Samui Regatta in 2001. The regatta also provides on-going support to this initiative, contributing Thai Baht 5,000 every month to pay for sailing equipment.

Web Sawasdee Plc, one of Thailand’s leading inbound travel companies, is the new naming sponsor of the regatta for the next three years. Through www.sawadee.com and www.r24.org, the company provides online travel/tourism-related information along with a user-friendly booking system and a secure payment gateway.

Public tickets will be available for the legendary sailing parties that occur most evenings during the regatta and that will feature bands and DJ’s from around the world.

Koh Samui, rich with natural resources, white sandy beaches and coral reefs, is the perfect location for an international regatta that not only provides great sailing, but that also supports tourism on the island and helps raise the profile of Thailand as an idyllic and exciting vacation destination. The regatta provides the perfect blend of Thai charm and world-class sailing.

Images from the 2008 Samui International Yacht Regatta are available at: www.flickr.com/photos/sawadee-com-regatta-2009-samui

Media Contacts:

Citrus Public Relations	or	MobyElite Sports
Ian Grundy		Siobhan Kennedy
ian.grundy@citrus-pr.com		siobhan@mobyelite.com
Tel: +65 83226890		Tel: +66 (0) 8 60028458

About the Sawadee.com Regatta 2009, Samui
The Sawadee.com Regatta 2009, Samui, is an annual event that takes place on the beautiful Thai island of Koh Samui. Now in its eighth year, this ‘Tropical Island Regatta’ has become one of the main events on the Asian sailing circuit and attracts an international fleet.

For further details see www.samuiregatta.com

Pepsi Thailand World Foot Volley Tournament

Footvolley comes to town

Here’s a chance to see first hand in Bangkok how footie skills can apply to volley ball.

While it doesn’t grab headlines in the sporting press, footvolley should stimulate our imagination as to its pedigree and origin. Now, courtesy of Pepsi Cola we can see for ourselves how this sporting spectacle compares with the traditional volley ball.

Proponents of the game point out that footvolley can be played by people of all ages, and was selected as a demonstration event at the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games.

The first ever Pepsi Thailand World Foot Volley Tournament will be played out in downtown Bangkok, 30 to 31 May, at the Central World’s outdoor activity arena.
The competition will include teams from South America, Europe and Thailand.
According to the organisers, international football stars have been invited to attend the tournament to entertain the audience with a VIP demonstration match at the Outdoor Arena at Central World – a mega shopping complex in the heart of Bangkok.
Organised by the Footvolley Association of Thailand (FVAT) the tournament will feature eight professional teams, with sides from Brazil, Spain, France and Portugal lining-up against four Thai squads. The event is sanctioned by the Federation Internationale de Footvolley (FIFV) and forms part of the Footvolley World Tour 2009.

These so called world championships have been held since 2004 starting in Brazil. Thai foot volley players participated in that tournament and the following year in Spain.

Footvolley was established on the beaches of Rio de Janeiro and has quickly grown on to become a highly popular beach sport around the world. It was first introduced to Thailand 2003 and strangely gained its roots in Loei, a northern town surrounded by mountains and far from the Gulf of Thailand beach resorts.

Miss Tiffany Universe 2009

Tiffany in the TV spotlight

Contestants vie for the Miss Tiffany Universe crown and raise cash for charity.

Spotlights and TV cameras will focus on Pattaya, mid-May, as the resort’s most famous transvestite show hosts the annual Miss Tiffany Universe contest.

It started off as a local contest, a natural extension of the fantasia that acts out, nightly, on the stage of the Tiffany theatre. But largely due to the attention it gained from the likes of CNN and BBC it quickly grew into a well organised beauty contest.

TV channels love it for its obvious shock and entertainment value. It’s a reality show that takes our minds off an otherwise slate of bad news. Miss Tiffany Universe is on the map and it helps to provide Pattaya with miles of media promotion.

The five-day contest plays out with elements of grandeur that could justify comparisons with global mainstream contests such as Miss Universe or Miss World. Contestants spend nearly a week in the warm up stages struggling to be noticed and eventually it all narrows down to a single evening of entertainment and extravaganza on stage, 15 May, that continues well past midnight.

While its organisers claim the event champions the rights of people who have crossed the line to a transgender or transvestite lifestyle, visitors to Pattaya view it as superb entertainment and choreography, spiced with comedy that would be at home on the stages of Las Vegas.


Tiffany Show has been entertaining tourists in Pattaya for over 35 years with more than 1000 visitors a night enjoying the three nightly performances. Over 100 performers dance and lip-snyc their way through popular songs from musicals and international pop charts.

From this make-believe world a brainwave emerged to go a step further and organise a Miss Tiffany’s Universe contest. Now it is one of the highlights of Pattaya’s annual calendar with an estimated live audience of 15 million viewers glued to their televisions as the pageantry unfolds.

Miss Tiffany’s Universe winners have even visited the US to participate in the “Miss Queen of the Universe” contest and came home with the first prize. With such worldwide media coverage, Tiffany’s viewers and the live audience, attending the final rounds of the contest, marvel at the achievements of medical science and the cosmetic industry. Some will even be tempted to question their ability to discern between genders as the contestants strut their stuff on the runway.

This year’s event will again support the Royal Sponsored AIDS Foundation; a charity programme, which Tiffany’s Show has been part of for many years. Held at the Tiffany Show Theatre, Pattaya II Road, Pattaya City, the final round of the contest will run from 2030 to 0030.
Judges will first select Miss Congeniality, Miss Best Costume, Miss Photogenic and finally Miss Tiffany Universe 2009. In between the rounds, the Tiffany Shows will perform. Tickets are priced at Bt2,000 for VIP seats and Bt1,000 for Mezzanine seats.

For more details visit www.misstiffanyuniverse.com or www.tiffany-show.co.th

Royal Ploughing Ceremony Day

Royal Ploughing Ceremony Day
Date : 11 May 2009
Venue : Sanam Luang, Bangkok

Signs of the times. A Brahmin ceremony seeks a sign to guide the nation to a healthy harvest. Economists have their own ideas on how 2009 will pan out. They take stock of the rice crop, the inbound flow of tourism and fluctuations on the foreign exchange market to provide a peep at where we might be heading. There is a much more colourful way to reach the same conclusions and it is at the heart of a century old custom, the annual Ploughing Ceremony.

Held at on the spacious grounds of Sanam Luang against the backdrop of imposing government buildings and the Grand Palace, this ancient Brahmin ceremony takes place 9 May at an auspicious time set even to the seconds hand of the clock by custodians of this custom.

Having their origins in India, the rites of the Ploughing Ceremony can be witnessed in Myanmar, Thailand and Cambodia.

Once the Brahmin priests have set the auspicious time after consulting the stars and interpreting omens, the stage is set for Bangkok to turn the pages back from modern commercial endeavour to a ceremony that touches the soil and essence of life itself.
To the sound of tambourines and flutes the royal ceremony draws various players to a pegged area of “Sanam Luang” where omens will be interpreted to chart the course of the nation’s economy and wellbeing.


One of the players is a high ranking official of the Ministry of Agriculture dressed in ancient regalia -- a white tunic sparkling with precious stones and wearing on his head a long pointed crown.
Two oxen covered in scarlet and gold cloaks wait to be attached to a plough.
Brahmin guards dressed in green officiate over the first of three important ceremonies.

At the Royal pavilion, three golden Pa Nungs (sarongs) of different length are presented to the Minister. He dons one of them and his choice is considered an omen that gives the Brahmin priest a hint of the year’s prevailing weather and its impact on the harvest.
If the minister chooses the shortest of the Pa Nungs it suggests abundant rain, while the longest hints of drought and hard times. The medium length Pa Nung is considered the most appropriate for the economy. It suggests harmony in nature, perfect conditions for a bumper harvest.

Emerging from the pavilion the Minister is led to the two oxen tethered to the plough. In front of a vast crowd he carefully ploughs three circular furrows to the sound of conch shells and trumpets.
Four maidens carrying baskets with blessed rice, follow the Minister as he begins the ploughing of three more furrows. They sprinkle the rice seeds in the furrows, while Brahmin priest sprinkle lustral water.

As the Minister completes the third furrow the crowds burst through the flimsy barrier to snatch the seeds from the earth. Farmers believe that mixing them with seeds bought from the market will guarantee a handsome harvest.
Finally, the oxen are led to the pavilion where they are offered seven bowls full of rice, corn, millet, beans, grass, rice wine, and water. Their choice is considered a vital omen that will assist the Brahmin priests to divine the year’s outcome for the nation.
If the oxen choose rice, it signals a plentiful harvest. If they ignore the rice it hints of scarcity. If they lower their heads towards the bowls of water, this suggests abundant rain.

Wisely, there is no evidence that the oxen have ever sipped the rice whisky, but on many occasions, the oxen lose their appetites and have to be encouraged to lower their muzzles to the bowls. Once the oxen have made their choice, the Brahmin priest evaluate all the omens, which are then read to the representative of HM the King by a civil servant of the Ministry of Agriculture. As the crowds disappear some will remain to search the earth for a little longer in the hope of finding a blessed rice seed and possibly a promise of a better year to come.

Amarin Outdoor Unlimited Chiang Mai Challenge 2009

marin Outdoor Unlimited Chiang Mai Challenge 2009
Amazing Thailand Adventure Race
Date : 9 May 2009
Venue : Chiang Mai

Adventure on the holiday menu

Taking up the challenge in Chiang Mai’s multi-discipline race requires team work.

Those who study travel trends up close, marvelling at the twists and turns, have concluded that sports sometimes called lifestyle tourism is now the cool holiday option. People are increasingly seeking an experience, or an opportunity to pursue a hobby, while on holiday.

There are plenty of examples of this trend in Thailand’s monthly calendar, so it comes as no surprise that Chiang Mai is the host of a fascination race and rigorous test of endurance, 9 May. The event gets underway during the one of Thailand’s public holidays that starts Friday 8 May with the Buddhist Visakha Bucha Day.

Enthusiasts from around Thailand and international participants will gather in this northern city for a fascinating test that focuses on fitness and relies heavily on team spirit

Tagged the Outdoor Unlimited Chiang Mai Challenge 2009, the day’s competition will start at the city’s landmark 700-Year Stadium, a popular venue for sports events and concerts.

But this all-day event spreads far and wide through the city and surrounding countryside, giving participants a completely different perspective on this northern heritage town.

Participants will bike on mountain trails, followed by woodland trail running, kayaking and swimming on a lake with a few obstacles thrown in to make the task even more challenging. Overall, the race runs from 0900 to 1400 covering around 35 to 50 km of trails plus the addition of the swim and kayak sections.

Chiang Mai’s outdoor challenge is actually part of a wider series of adventure style events in Thailand organised by Active Management Asia, a company that markets team building and sports events in the region.

Now in its second year, the Chiang Mai Challenge is based on multi-disciplines of biking, running, kayaking and swimming so it appeals to people with a high fitness level who are comfortable competing in triathlons, off-road bike races, orienteering and marathons. It’s not for the faint of heart, but the difference is the rules require teams of two to compete ensuring popularity with families and couples who can muster their team spirit.

The official contact location for the Challenge is at Green Lake Resort - Royal Thai Army's Lanna Recreational Home, Chollapathan Road, Chang Puek

For more information, Contact the organiser: Active Management Asia Company, at 02 718 9581-2 or visit www.chiangmaichallenge.com or www.active-asia.com