Thailand Festival & Event

November in Thailand What is the travel....

2010-11-10T19:26:00.000-08:00

Silk Phuk Siew Festival and Red Cross Fair

November 29, 2010 - December 10, 2010
Phuk Siew or Friendship Making, an ancient and beautiful event for the people of I-san has been practiced for over a century. As it is considered a very important event, Phuk Siew has therefore been organised together with the silk festival. As a result, this has become an annual ceremony of the people of Khon Kaen since 1980. “Siew” (a word for “friend” in Northeastern dialect) refers to 2 people who are full of great loyalty, sincerity and share a close relationship with one another. Nothing, even death, will put them apart. This relationship is not only supposed to happen among those 2 “friends”, but also that true relationship will be shared with others in their families, among relatives and siblings of the “friend”. During this festival, visitors will enjoy the opening ceremony procession, local silk weaving exhibitions, Red Cross Fair, silk pavilion, sales of OTOP products, join the friendship making ritual and Northeastern style dinner, beauty contest, local folk performances, etc. The outstanding and unforgotten spot of the event is an “arts and cultural corner” that will be full of various kinds of activities and entertainment.

2nd Annual Trio for Justice Half-Marathon and Bike Ride

November 14, 2010
BABSEA CLE is excited to announce that the 2nd Annual Trio for Justice Half-Marathon/ Half-Marathon Relay, 10K Run & 10K Fun Bike Ride will be held over the weekend of Sunday, November 14, 2010 in Sankamphaeng, approximately 48 kilometers outside of Chiang Mai. BABSEA CLE has created the Trio for Justice to take place annually to raise funds for social justice causes in the region and helping to build university based Community Legal Education (CLE) programs
DONATION BIKE RIDE
The Trio for Justice 2010 will kick off on Sunday morning, November 14th, with the 10 KM. Fun Bike Ride (start at 7.00 am.) or 21 KM. (start at 6.30 am). Bike Ride Participants will have the option to enroll in one of the two bike rides. Participants can use locally purchase bikes, which will be donated to the Meaphahaen School after the race. Participants can donate any helmets they bring to the event. The school is located in a local village, and most of the students of the Meaphahae School are orphans from Burma or Northern ethnic minority communities. Bike Event participants will also get to personally present their bicycles to representatives of the local school.
10 KM RUN HALF MARATHON / TEAM RELAY
The running portion of the event begins bright and early on Sunday morning, November 14th, with a staggered start for the half marathon/ half-marathon team relay and 10K runs (10K runs start at 7.15 am and the half-marathon/The half-marathon relay start at 6.45 am). The half-marathon relay teams will consist of 4 members per team, and the half- marathon relay will begin at the same time as the half-marathon. Participants from all events will ride and/or run through the King’s Project Reforestation Community. In the case of the Half-Marathon/Half-Marathon Relay, runners will enjoy views of a small Thai village and its surrounding rice fields. The majority of the route is flat, with some slight rolling hills, The run will take participants though stunning rural Thailand scenery with runners finishing at the local Meaphahaen School, another BABSEA-CLE supported partner.
For more information, please call 0 5380 8057, or visit the website : www.trioforjustice.org

Sukhothai Loi Krathong and Candle Festival 2010

November 19, 2010 - November 21, 2010
Although the holiday of Loy Krathong is now celebrated throughout the kingdom, Loy Krathong originated in Sukhothai, the first Thai capital. While particularly popular with couples who head down to any nearby body of water to light the candles and incense on their floating Krathongs, visitors can best appreciate Loy Krathong by heading to the ancient capital of Sukhothai, where the holiday was first celebrated.
Highlights of the Sukhothai Loy Krathong celebration include displays of lighted candles and fireworks, folk dancing and a spectacular light & sound presentation.
At the Sukhothai Loy Krathong festival, visitors will be dazzled by the float procession of large krathong from 17 Northern provinces. The procession will consist of krathongs from government agencies, state enterprises, private sectors, and the general public. There are also a Krathong design contest, the Miss Noppamas Beauty Contest, and Sukhothai arts and culture performances.
How To Get There
By Bus
Air-conditioned buses depart from Bangkok's Mochit 2 Bus Terminal to Sukhothai daily between 9.45 a.m. and 10.20 p.m.,frequently during the morning. The journey takes 7 hours. Call 0 2936 2852-66 or visit www.transport.co.th for more information. Private bus companies which operate daily bus services to Sukhothai are such as Win Tour (Tel: 0 2936 3753 or 0 5561 1039), Phitsanulok Yan Yon (Tel: 0 2936 2924-5, 0 5525 8647) Sukhothai Bus Terminal (Tel: 0 5561 3296)
By Train
There are no trains going directly to Sukhothai. One may travel by train to Phitsanulok and then take a local bus to Sukhothai, about 59 kilometres away. Contact Bangkok Railway Station Tel. 1690, 02223 7010, 0 2223 7020 or visit www.railway.co.th for more information.
By Other
Bangkok Airways flies from Bangkok to Sukhothai daily for 1-hour journey. Sukhothai Airport is about 40 kilometres north of the town. For more information, call 0 2265 5678, 0 2265 5555 or 0 5564 7224-5 or visit www.bangkokair.com

Bridge over the River Khwae Fair

November 26, 2010 - December 5, 2010
Enjoy visiting the miniature “Ancient Town of Kanchanaburi”, a historical and lifestyle presentation of Kanchanaburi province, the long entrance to the River Khwae Bridge and fair will be decorated, light and sound presentation on “The River Khwae Bridge and the Death Railway” at the River Khwae Bridge, sales of local and OTOP products.

Blooming Bua Tong (Mexican Sunflower) Festival on Mae Oo Kaw

November 1, 2010 - December 13, 2010
Experience and feel the cool breeze of wintertime while appreciating the natural beauty of the Bua Tong flower field as well as enjoy camping.
Suitable for: Single traveler, Adventure traveler, Family, Couple, Group , First time travelers, Adults, Teens, Youth, Woman, Romance

October 2010 Festival & Event Part 2

2010-10-19T20:22:00.000-07:00

Flow Festival steamer Phanom year 2010
16 Oct 2553 to 24 October 2010
Red Cross steamer Phanom work flows 16 to 24 October 2010 and the World Food Day 17 to 24 October 2010 at Government Center, Nakhon Phanom Province. And the Mekong River, Muang Nakhon Phanom Watch the race boat on the Mekong River. Castle steamer procession bees and land Contest steamer floating in the Mekong River on the night end of Buddhist Lent The Cultural Show. Phra That Phanom worship dance. The gathering of indigenous tribes of various 7 living in Nakhon Phanom province. Dress in tribal clothes regularly. And dancing with beautiful Dnyongdnr to worship Phra That Phanom.

Bang Fai Phaya Nak end of Buddhist Lent Festival Annual 2010.

20 Oct 2010 to 26 October 2010.

During the end of Buddhist Lent festival every year. People all over the region will travel to the Nong Khai province to experience. Natural phenomenon is called. "Bang Fai Phaya Nak" Eoouaฟ traditionally pink color from the Mekong River is no sound and no smoke, no smell. Like fireworks, or fireworks. This phenomenon will occur only once a year. In the lunar night 11 months by 15 this year falls on Saturday, October 23, 2010.
On the ceremony of sacrifice to the ancient serpent who inherited the City Pillar at the mouth of Huai Luang. Phon Phisai. In Nong Khai Municipality held the events of interest. Whether it is street food. The giant Krathong. The race has a long tradition, King's Cup. Display lighting - open the legendary voice, "Bang Fai Phaya Nak" bee traditional castle contest. The steamer floating serpent worship. Loy Krathong Sai. And Robert V. Do I put only.
For more information, please contact the TAT Udon or call 0 4232 5406-7 E-mail: tatudon@tat.or.th. Service center or travel information, Nong Khai Telephone 0 4242 1326, 0 4241 1120 office hours every day.
Chak Phra festival - fry the wild and competitive boat. Surat Thani Province.
20 Oct 2010 to 28 October 2010.
20 - October 28, 2010 at dams along the river Tapi. The Palace Hotel Airport South. And the bridge master Activities include Bush once a Tony Award boat dragged the car the car the water inland.Oct 23. Watch the contest every corner of the city once a bush.24 Oct. Co Bush drew only once and watch the parade.Oct 23-25. Watch the boat race Panel.And found to display a string musical entertainment to life with shopping Luk cheap OTOP products.

October 2010 Festival & Event Part 1

2010-10-19T20:14:00.000-07:00

Buffalo Racing

October 16, 2010 - October 22, 2010

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 Race, held around the 11th lunar month -normally in October, is a hotly contested series of sprints across on an open space in front of the town’s municipal offices. 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 favorites and the atmosphere is as enthralling as watching thoroughbred race horses; admittedly, a bit slower than race horses, the buffaloes are no slouches when it comes to making a short dash for glory.
Both town residents and tourists turn out for the amazing Buffalo racing that have even been featured in the past on CNN and the BBC as a must-see event.
The Buffalo racing is taken very seriously by the owners of the buffaloes. Prizes for the first nose past the finish line guarantee owners go to considerable lengths to ensure their buffaloes are in tip-top condition.

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 honor 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.
The Chonburi Buffalo Race is a festival that provides amazing photo opportunities to capture an unusual adaptation of the 100-metre dash. Well worth seeing, is always the highlight of those who make the effort to travel to Chonburi.

Poi Lern Sip Et Tradition

October 19, 2010 - October 31, 2010

Thewo alms offering at Phrathat Doi Kung Mu and walk to Wat Muai Tor.
Houses are decorated with candles and lanterns, Chong Para procession, local games, as well as various

forms of entertainment.

Tak Bat Thewo Tradition

October 22, 2010 - October 24, 2010

This religious event of Uthai Thani is organised in the evening of Ok Phansa
(end of Buddhist Lent) on the first day of the waning moon of the eleventh lunar month at Wat Sangkat Rattana Khiri. It is also in line with the Buddhist chronicles when the Lord Buddha returned to earth from heaven and gave Dharma. On the day of Tak Bat Thewo, 500 monks will walk down from the top of Khao Sakae Krang to receive offerings from residents and visitors to the ceremony, which creates an amazing spectacle and has made this tradition become well known nationwide.

Avoid chaos at the city .. Khan.

2010-06-14T01:56:00.000-07:00

Evening at the Mekong River winds gently calm. Happiness of girls. Anyone with friends dubbed as an honest way of life that I never found in the city. I hear the gentle music of this period hit a twenty-eight minutes. Picture someone appears. Within my subconscious .... 22.30-(12 May 53) car from doctors close 00:50-I stay to eat in Korat. Provincial Transport Company Ltd. to 22.6-I. 6:55-car out. Transport Company Ltd. heading to Chiang Khan.
As the first step of this as I arrived. The first thing is the experience. Heat from the sun ... that makes my skin color instead of adding it to the next level of intensity. The second thing is the friendly smile on all sides of this road. The third thing is quiet. Ethics in the levels of a common address. It's been impressive. The city that are sports that have no color.
Road Cycling sun smiles silence is a feature that indicates the location of this Old wooden house at preserving ancient architecture, take it. Why It 's what this charm.

Nearly ten hours or ten hours over .. I can not remember as well. I live on a bus and minibus ... Down from the second row only. Sky Lab ... towards the village. Located along the Mekong.
Usually after walking for some time I decided to stay at the house RAM lace. Words have heard tell that heard ... that this is the first cement house in the Khan. Mission complete accommodation with friends, I quickly away, as it is Leo bike The sun will not know how hot. We dabble in sunny palm. In order to curl the rapids. More than four-kb distance from the boat to Tha Laos spinning ... my friend, I went ahead. Quite far enough. (Actually, I would not go because it's very hot weather, but I friends). My friends like to call it the "bug Liew º" enough to spin the bike for a while ... the "bugs Liew º" symptoms crying. Caused a flat tire chains off. It is a picture. Years with a rueful laugh Finally, we do not reach rapids curve Accommodation to sleep --- rest ---. I wake up about four o'clock HRM system Kata Web camera at play Mekong River. Look to the other side of the country like our brothers ... there is a Democratic Republic. Laos A quiet place, but I do not feel lonely. Old wooden house that reflect a simpler lifestyle. People with a friendly smile.
The second day (15 May 0.53).
- Breakfast Noodle. - Love Egg Pan at the defendant. - Prepare Skip PDR. Laos photo copy of two. (Request for temporary transit).
Morning sun shining river water significant impact bicycle tire flat Mission breakfast out, I walk out of the new place of residence ... Steamed Pui Huen Luang Prabang as cotton. The new affordable accommodation in tonight
Time to jump to Laos .. - 50 different boat Baht - Check each through 12 Baht - Visit 30 different transit Baht
Hot body and three-wheeler that old wooden house lab. Other deposits of the Mekong River. Life is not different from the Thai side. Second Temple days that I visit. Wat Phra Yai is a contraction cliff, on San Chaiya Mongkol.
Thermal barrier is not in use. Khan life. But because the disorder through in life, it makes me feel Well with the guest at this.
Returning from here tomorrow. I do not know to experience the feeling of letting go again when
Evening ... along with other atmospheric Chew Fang Khong Thai men casting fishing sunset. Secret sun lights the horizon ... the shops. Talk with friends drinking Put mosquito bites are the rain falling it's time to sleep. Near the time to leave from here ...
Rung on the morning new On the upcoming return. Egg pan as defendants love ... Good friends with good ideas. Friends say that the yelling. Meet the Region. Sports that are color Thank love endeavor Pi from the defendant driving the car I sent to Tha . And I will come back here again at Khan.

River Kwai Bridge Week

2009-11-20T00:30:00.001-08:00

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

2009-11-20T00:27:00.000-08:00

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

2009-11-20T00:25:00.000-08:00

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

2009-10-26T01:29:00.000-07:00

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

2009-10-26T01:28:00.000-07:00

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

2009-10-26T01:26:00.000-07:00

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

2009-09-23T23:58:00.000-07:00

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

2009-09-23T23:57:00.000-07:00

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

2009-09-23T23:56:00.000-07:00

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)

2009-09-23T23:50:00.000-07:00

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

2009-09-23T23:48:00.000-07:00

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

2009-09-23T23:45:00.000-07:00

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

2009-08-28T01:51:00.000-07:00

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

2009-08-10T02:37:00.000-07:00

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

2009-08-10T02:35:00.000-07:00

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

2009-07-01T19:37:00.000-07:00

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

2009-07-01T19:36:00.000-07:00

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

2009-07-01T19:33:00.000-07:00

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

2009-07-01T19:29:00.000-07:00

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

2009-06-06T23:18:00.000-07:00

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

2009-05-26T00:23:00.000-07:00

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

2009-05-24T19:03:00.000-07:00

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

2009-05-23T09:21:00.000-07:00

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

2009-05-07T01:55:00.000-07:00

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

2009-05-07T01:53:00.000-07:00

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

2009-05-06T01:45:00.000-07:00

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

2009-05-06T01:42:00.000-07:00

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

Sai Buri Fishing Competition

2009-03-28T04:54:00.000-07:00

Fishing makes friends

Game fishing competition in the Deep South attracts teams from Singapore and Malaysia.

Sports events are few and far between in April, possibly due to soaring summer temperatures. Schools are on holiday to give children a break from the heat, while Thailand’s most important festival, Songkran, the celebration of the traditional New Year, has a practical application too. It’s the one time in the year when it’s cool to throw a bucket of water over your neighbour.

But for the hardy go-any-where fishing community it appears the heat of the summer sun is not a deterrent, nor apparently is the sensitive security issues surrounding the event’s venue in the Deep South province of Pattani.

Both local and foreign anglers, many from neighbouring countries, meet in Pattani province and make friends at one of the oldest sports fishing events in the country, the 22nd Sai Buri Fishing Competition.

Pattani hosts this event, 24 to 26 April, at Wa Sukri Beach, 50 km from Pattani town. Talubun Municipality, in Sai Buri district, organises the annual event that features both on-shore fishing competitions for individuals and off-shore contests for teams with a maximum of three members per boat.

The on-shore contests require competitors to cast their reels to catch fish that dwell close to shore, or take shelter under rocky outcrops. In the off-shore team events, anglers travel some distance by boat to snarl game fish as large and marlin and tuna.

Depending on the swing of the monsoon season, the event has been held annually for 21 years, either in late April, or early May. Last year, it was held early May and welcomed 157 people for the on-shore competition and 38 teams for the off-shore boat game fishing competitions. Most of the participants at this competition are Thais, but there is also a strong representation in the team events from neighbouring countries such as Malaysia and Singapore.

The registration fee is Bt100 for individuals and Bt2,000 for a team including meals during the event. Participants have to bring their own fishing tackle, rods and reels, while teams rent fishing boats for the off-shore event at around Bt1,300 per day. Bait is provided.

The off-shore, competition starts at Wat Sukri Pier, with boats heading for fishing grounds near Losin or Laopi islands. Trophies and prizes are based on species and weight of the fish caught.

For more information, contact Talubun municipality in Sai Buri district at, Tel: 073 411 810 and 073 411 015.

Songkran Festival

2009-03-12T01:24:00.001-07:00

Splashing blessings on everyone in sight

While the water splashing will flourish, the traditional values of Songkran are the focus of the 2009 celebrations.

Songkran is without doubt the most popular of all Thai festivals and rightly so.
It marks the beginning of a new astrological year and its exact dates are determined by the old lunar calendar of Siam.
This year the three-day festival falls on 13 to 15 April.

Traditionally, April 13 is known as “Maha Songkran Day” and marks the end of the old year, April 14 is “Wan Nao”, while April 15 is “Wan Thaloeng Sok” when the New Year begins.

While the festival has its roots in Buddhist heritage, the washing of Buddha images, merit making, traditional family values and the sprinkling of water in respect for elders, it is best known for the fun and “sanuk” everyone gains from splashing copious quantities of water on all who happen to pass by.
Songkran is celebrated with gusto by young and old, throughout the country. City communities and villages in rural Thailand forget their troubles and concentrate on the serious of business of having fun as well as cooling off, during the height of the summer’s scorching tropical temperatures.
Probably of all the national festivals, this is the one that foreigners love to experience the most. They will come across water splashing festivities wherever they travel giving them an opportunity to share in a festival that is immensely popular, while still retaining a link to its traditional roots and values.
One of the traditional values points to the Thai family and the opportunity for family members to express their respect for their elders. Younger members of the family pour scented water on the hands of their parents, and grandparents. They may present them with gifts or tokens of their love. In return, elders wish youngsters good luck and prosperity.

In temples, elder members of the family gather to make merit, offering alms to the monks. They may help clean the temple courtyard, or perform bathing rites for Buddha images

In by-gone days, the fun of splashing water on friends or strangers had to wait until the late afternoon when the religious duties and ceremonies were over.
Today, the lines are often blurred with the younger generation making the most of the three-day opportunity to splash water on everyone in sight.

Possibly the most famous of the Songkran celebrations takes place in Chiang Mai. It attracts thousands of visitors, from all over Thailand as well as international tourists determined to share in the fun.
Often simply called the Chiang Mai Water Festival, the core of the celebrations will be held, 13 to 15 April, at the city’s main irrigation canal, with parades and cultural performances as well as arts demonstrations. The actual opening ceremony will be held 12 April, at the Royal Flora complex when the Minister of Tourism and Sports will declare the festival open.

There are other opportunities to join in Songkran festivities regardless of where you are travelling.

In the North:
Chiang Saen Water Festival runs from 13 to 21 April, in Chiang Saen district of Chiang Rai province. In the Golden Triangle area, where the borders of Thailand, Laos and Myanmar meet, a ceremony, during the day, will pay homage to the town’s Buddha image. In the evening, the visitors can join a Lanna-style dinner, known as Khan Tok, or shop for handicrafts on a street closed to traffic, also the venue for folk dance performances.

Si Satchanalai Water Festival, from 13 to 15 April, at Si Satchanalai district, Sukhothai province, features parades and water splashing in the Si Satchanalai Historical Park. The town is 67 km north of Sukhothai and is a popular stop on Around North Thailand tours.

Northeast
Thai-Lao Water Festival, from 13 to 17 April, plays out on the banks of the Mekong River in Nong Khai town that faces Laos and its capital, Vientiane. Sports competitions will be organised in the week preceding the festival.

Koon Flower and Sticky Rice Road and Water Festival in Khon Kaen province, features parades, performances and water splashing on Si Chan Road, known as sticky rice road for its profusion of vendors selling this staple northeast food.

Ubon Ratchathani Water Festival, in the city centre, will feature a Thai-Indochina Food Festival at Thung Si Mueang Park, which will sell speciality dishes and food items representative of Thailand, Laos, Vietnam and Cambodia.

Nakhon Phanom Water Festival has an unusual theme of noodles. The main event will be held on Sinthorn Vichit Road or Khao Pun Road (rice flour noodle road) where booths will sell products and dishes made of rice flour noodles, the speciality of this province.

Central
Bangkok Water Festival gets underway,12 April, with a sound and light show at Arun Ratchawararam Temple, from 1800 to 2100. This year, the city will focus on a traditional style Songkran Festival by supporting and inviting people to make merit at temples and return to their villages up-country to be with their families. Water splashing on streets in the business district will be discouraged.
However, the city is promoting its “Passport to nine royal temples” for those who visit temples during the festival, with an incentive to win prizes. Water splashing will be encouraged only in specific areas such as Khao Sarn Road.

Phrapadaeng Water Festival, which follows different dates than most of the celebrations, will be hosted, 18 to 20 April, in front of Phrapradaeng district office, Samut Prakarn province. There will be parades, Thai-Mon traditional sports and performances.

Eastern seaboard
Bangsaen Water Festival, 16 to 17 April, is held a week after national celebrations at Bangsaen beach in Chonburi province. A competition to determine the most artistic sand pagoda takes centre stage with more than 100 miniature pagodas sculptured from the sand.

Pattaya Water Festival follows on from Bangsaen, 17 to 20 April. The water splashing celebration first moves to Na-Klua, a village just north of Pattaya, 18 April, Pattaya beach, 19 April and finally moving, 20 April, to Sattahip, a fishing and Naval town on the eastern seaboard.

South
Ranong Mineral Water Festival runs from 12 to 15 April, at Raksawarin Public Park in the centre of Ranong town, located on the Andaman Sea coast, some 300 km north of Phuket.
Here, people will enjoy the luxury of splashing mineral water on one another following the style witnessed in Myanmar’s traditional festivities. Also, during the four days, there will be booths selling tourism products and packages to Ranong province and other Andaman coast destinations.

Hat Yai Midnight Songkran, will be hosted 12 to 14 April, at Nipat Uthit Road in Hat Yai district, Songkhla province. The water splashing will start from 2200, 12 April to midnight on 13 April. Ceremonies to sprinkle water on the town’s Buddha images will be conducted on the mornings of 13 and 14 April.

For more information : TAT Call Center 1672

Phra Nakhon Khiri Muang Phet Fair

2009-03-12T01:22:00.000-07:00

Phra Nakhon Khiri Muang Phet Fair
Date : 10 - 19 April 2009
Venue : Khao Wang and Around the City Limit of Phetchaburi

"Khao Wang" is a hill located in the heart of Phetchaburi city, it is the location of frist hill palace of Thailand. "Phra Nakhon Khiri" palace was built by King Chomklao (Mongkut), or the Rama IV reign, in 1859, with Chao Phaya Sri Suriyawong (Chuang Bunnag) was the chief architect. It was builtl with a palace temple, Wat Phra Keo Noi, a stupa, to contain the relics of Lord Buddha named by the Kings as Chompetch relics and planted temple trees on both sides connecting the three hills and the group of the throne halls.

Phra Nakhon Khiri is a main tourist attraction of Phetchaburi with importance in history, culture and natural beauty. In 1935 it was registered as a historical place and in 1979 was declared as a national museum of the monument type. every year from Febuary through April the temple trees on Khao Wang hill almost 200 years old numbering 1,263 trees all showed off more than one million flowers.

Phra Nakhon Khiri or Khao Wang hill has been the place of the annual fair of Phetchaburi continuously up to 22 times. In 2009 it will reach the 150th anniversary. The 2009 annual fair uses the concept of "150th Anniversary to Mark King Rama IV" scheduled to be held from April 10-19, 2009 at Khao Wang and around the city limit of Phetchaburi. It combines with the Phetchaburi Red Cross Fair for the public and tourists to participate in the activities and make merits with the Phetchaburi Red Cross Society.

Activities at Phra Nakhon Khiri - Phetchaburi City
The ceremony is to worship the city pillar shrine/the ancestral kings, exhibition to honor the ancestral kings and sustainable economy, the performances of Department of Fine Arts, a parade to honor the kings and the Phetchaburi way of life. Performances on the central stage, a contest of sweet Phetchaburi beauties, demonstration of foods and local sweets, ox chariot racing, decoration of lights and fairworks on Khao Wang each night. They will set up booths selling OTOPs at the fair, set up sales booths at the Red Cross fair and selling Phetchaburi Red Cross raffle to win the cup of HRH Princess Somdet Phrathep Rattanasuda Siam Baromratch Kumari.

Worshipping Ceremony
09.00 hrs. - Ceremony to worship the city pillar shrine at the shrine ground.
09.39 hrs. - Ceremony to worship the ancestral kings, the King Ramas IV (King Mongkut),
V and VI reigns at the yard in front of Phra Nakhon Khiri (Khao Wang)
Dress Code : Normal white dress

Opening ceremony at the yard in front of Phra Nakhon Khiri (Khao Wang)
09.00 hrs. - Honorable guests and ceremonial participants get together at the ceremonial area.
20.00 hrs. - Chairman arrives at the ceremonial area.
- Music band plays the propitious song.
20.09 hrs. - Phetchaburi governor addresses the audience to open the fair
and gives souvenirs souvenirs to the fair supporters.
- Ceremonial chairman performs the opening ceremony.
- Chairman reviews the honoring parade.
- Chairman visits the activities on Khao Wang.
Dress Code : Batik clothes.

Performances at the Central Stage
April 10, 2009 Performances by musical bands /
performances of districts & governmental agencies,
set off 600 fireworks at 20.00 hrs.
April 11, 2009 Performances by musical bands /
beauty contest of Phetchaburi sweet girls,
eliminating round (the 1st set),
set off 200 fireworks at 21.00 hrs.
April 12, 2009 Performances by musical bands /
beauty contest of Phetchaburi sweet girls,
eliminating round (the 2nd set),
set off 200 fireworks at 21.00 hrs.
April 13, 2009 Performances by musical bands /
performances of districts & governmental agencies,
set off 200 fireworks at 21.00 hrs.
April 14, 2009 Performances by musical bands /
performances of districts & governmental agencies,
set off 200 fireworks at 21.00 hrs.
April 15, 2009 Performances by musical bands /
performances of districts & governmental agencies,
set off 600 fireworks at 20.00 hrs.
April 16, 2009 Performances by musical bands /
performances of districts & governmental agencies,
set off 200 fireworks at 21.00 hrs.
April 17, 2009 Performances by musical bands /
performances of districts & governmental agencies,
set off 200 fireworks at 21.00 hrs.
April 18, 2009 Performances by musical bands /
beauty contest at the final round,
set off 200 fireworks at 21.00 hrs.
April 19, 2009 Performances by musical bands /
performances of districts & governmental agencies,
drawing of the Red Coss raffle,
and set off 600 fireworks at 21.00 hrs.

For more information :
TAT Call Center 1672
TAT Phetchaburi Office, Tel. 66 (0) 3247 1005-6

Magic moments in Khmer heritage

2009-03-12T01:18:00.001-07:00

Magic moments in Khmer heritage

A splash of sunlight penetrating an ancient temple cloister signals a distinctive celebration at Prasat Phanom Rung.

Knowing the exact moment to witness a spectacular sunrise through the doorway of an ancient Hindu temple requires a detailed calculation.

The most auspicious day is 3 April; the time, 0602.32 at sunrise, as the amber sun is perfectly aligned in the centre of the main doorway to a temple standing on a former volcanic mountain in northeast Thailand.

Actually, the sun rays pass straight through 15 perfectly aligned doorways of Prasat Phanom Rung, a revered and ancient Hindu monastery, just four times a year -– two sets of sunrises, in April and September, and two sets of sunsets, in March and October.
These spectacular solar-related events, that also bear religious significance in the Hindu faithful, span just three days –- 2, 3 and 4 April. The second day is considered the most auspicious as the sun is visible dead centre of the outer doorway of this Khmer Hindu temple. Sun rays cast light through 15 aligned doorways that span 75 metres of the temple’s inner courtyard illuminating a revered lingam deep in the main sanctuary. On the other two days, the sun passes one of the corners of these doorways.

Located about 120 km east of Nakhon Ratchasima, the gateway to the northeast region, Prasat Phanom Rung presents a picturesque setting high above the surrounding countryside. A series of steps lead to this ancient monument that stands on the peak of an extinct volcano offering panoramic views of rice fields and hazy mountains on the border with Cambodia.

While photographers will not want to miss the opportunity to capture the 3 April sunrise perfectly aligned within the lintels of the doorways, most visitors will settle for the evening festivals and a colourful light and sound show organised by the Tourism Authority of Thailand performing nightly from 2 to 4 April.

Officially known as the “Ascent of the Mountain Annual Festival” or the “Festival Of The Thousand Year Miracle of the Phanom Rung Grand Shrine” the celebrations start with the religious significance of the sunrises, but continue with community festivities on each of the three days, well into the night.

The 80-minute light and sound show, that start at 20:00, highlights the history of Prasat Phanom Rung and explains the significance of the sunrise and its alignment with the temple’s courtyard doors.
The show is described as an “extravagant outdoor Son et Lumiere performances led by a large cast of actors, dancers and acrobats.”

This evening spectacular, held within the temple complex, compliments the daytime activities that start with the sunrise ceremonies and are followed by colourful festivities throughout the day. In the afternoon there is almost a carnival spirit as visitors enjoy the local food specialities sold at stalls, the folk music and dances as well as handicraft displays. Many visitors are tempted to stay on to admire the floodlight sanctuary, or slumber through night under the stars to ensure they have a prime spot to participate in the sunrise ceremonies on the following morning.

Pattaya International Music Festival 2009

2009-03-12T01:14:00.000-07:00

Cool music to beat summer heat

Pattaya International Music Festival gets underway 20 March to help residents and visitors to beat recession blues.

The grand Pattaya Music Festival is back in town to entertain music lovers. This is an unrivalled opportunity to enjoy a weekend of listening and dancing to beautiful music performed by more than 100 musicians. Fun awaits everyone, 20 to 22 March.

Postponed last year, the festival is back and promises to be an annual event.
According to Pattaya’s city hall it was revived to lighten the mood to give residents and tourists all the more reason to smile and enjoy the resort.
It echoes the sentiments of William Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night – “if music be the food of love play on”…

The event is also part of a wider nation-wide campaign “Amazing Thailand Amazing Value” managed by the Tourism Authority of Thailand to deliver events and value-for-money features to Thai and international travellers.

For music lovers it will certainly enhance their holiday and will also help to turn Pattaya into a musical paradise broadening its appeal.

The event is supported by well-known music companies such as GMM Grammy and its partners Modernine TV, Channel [V] Thailand, Channel [V] International and the Korea Foundation for International Exchange.

International musicians will be flown in by recording companies such as SM Entertainment from Korea, EEG from Hong Kong, Ocean Butterfly from China, House of Indies from Vietnam, Halo Music from Malaysia, AMPHEAD from Australia, INDEE RECORDS from Laos, and AVEX from Taiwan.

Visitors can choose their own style of music too. Are you into Pop, Hip-Hop, R&B, or Rock musicω The event features three music stages located at the Bali Hai pier at the southern end of the main bay, central Pattaya, and Pattaya Soi 4. Music themes will rotate between all three stages.

On Friday 20 March, visitors can enjoy Pop songs at the Bali Hai, Rock at central Pattaya and easy listening music at Soi 4. On Saturday, Pop and Rock will be performed at the Bali Hai stage, Hip-Hop at central Pattaya, and Jazz at Soi 4, while on Sunday, visitors can enjoy Rock at Bali Hai, Country Western music at central Pattaya, and Pop Rock at Soi 4.

Thai musicians include Golf&Mike, Pancake, Clash, ABNormal, Paradox, Bodyslam, Ebola, Zeal, Joey Boy and THE STAR.

International artists such as SHINEE and Girl’s generation from Korea, Kym Jin Sha from China, Cirque due Freak from Australia, Minh Thu from Vietnam, Rynn Lim from Malaysia, and Kenny Kwan from Hong Kong will also join the event.

TAT is responsible for two of the stages, one at the south Pattaya pier (Bali Hai) and one at Soi 4 on Pattaya beach road. The third stage in central Pattaya, is funded by a Bt10 million budget and run by Pattaya city and Chonburi Provincial Administrative Organisation.

For more information
TAT Call Center 1672
TAT Pattaya 66 (0) 3842 1005-6
e-mail : tatchon@tat.or.th

5 th World Thai Martial Arts Festival

2009-03-07T07:09:00.000-08:00

5 th World Thai Martial Arts Festival
CELEBRATION NAIKHANOM TOM DAY ASSOCIATION INSTITUTE OF THAI MARTIAL ARTS & WORLD MUAYTHAI FEDERATION
Wai-Kru Ceremony Muay Boran & Krabi – Krabong Seminar
Nai Khanomtom Pro/Championships Belt
Date: 15th - 17th March 2009,
Venue: City of Ayutthaya Stadium, Ayutthaya, Thailand

In Muay Thai, the boxer will always preface the fight with Wai Kru and this tradition is still practised nowadays. This ceremony is usually performed to rousing Thai music from pipes and drums, and with the initial Ram Muay (the boxing movement). The Wai Kru & Ram Muay are useful, since the Boxer gains encouragement from paying homage to his Teachers and feels that he is not on his own: he has his Teacher & the other Teachers of the Muay Thai discipline to support him.

The Wai Kru process will also give him time to concentrate & revise what he has learned, as well as display the nature of his weapons and the high degree of his skill. The steps, movements & use of his weapons are designed to warm up the body’s muscles, survey the field of play & conceal the contestant’s style of fighting. When the traditional Sarama music sounds around the ring it is recognised by all who are present as a symbol of deference & respect. Prior to the fight, the music helps to urge the fighter on, and rouses his spirit until he is ready to face his opponent in the boxing ring in manly combat.

Programs
Sunday 15th March 2009
07.00 - 16.00 hr. Seminar of Muay Boran Courses & Krabi Krabong
08.00 - 16.00 hr. Competition of Amateur Muay Thai, Muay Thai Boran and Krabi Krabong
17.30 hr. Introduction to all the Grand Masters and Masters all Ranking of Kru.
Oats of respect to all teachers. Present Mongkon and blessing to the new comers.
the Fighter for Muaythai ready for the start.
19.30 hr. Welcome Party
Monday 16th March 2009
07.00 - 16.00 hr. Seminar of Muay Boran & Krabi Krabong Courses
08.00 - 16.00 hr. Competition of Mae Mai Muay Thai, Amateur Muay Thai,
Muay Thai Boran and Krabi Krabong (Semi-Finals)
10.00 - 16.00 hr. Local Thai Sports Show…
Muay Thai Boran, Muay Tabchak and fighting cock
19.00 - 20.00 hr. Competition of Aerobic Muay Thai
Tuesday 17th March 2009 "WORLD MUAYTHAI DAY (NAI KHANOMTOM DAY)"
07.00 hr. For anyone must go to pay respect and holy
10.00 - 15.00 hr. Ceremony at Nai Khanomtom statue.
President arrival at the statue Start of the Holy Ceremony
The final 3 bout of Amateur,
Final Muay Boran, demonstration Presentation of Wai Kru,
Mae Mai & Amateur Medals And Special Nai Khanomtom Amateur
Local Thai Sports Show…
Muay Thai Boran, Muay Tabchak and fighting cock
10.00 - 16.00 hr. Closing Ceremony

For More Information : www.ideabar.com/muaythai

Pattaya International Music Festival 2009

2009-03-07T07:06:00.000-08:00

Cool music to beat summer heat

Pattaya International Music Festival gets underway 20 March to help residents and visitors to beat recession blues.

The grand Pattaya Music Festival is back in town to entertain music lovers. This is an unrivalled opportunity to enjoy a weekend of listening and dancing to beautiful music performed by more than 100 musicians. Fun awaits everyone, 20 to 22 March.

Postponed last year, the festival is back and promises to be an annual event.
According to Pattaya’s city hall it was revived to lighten the mood to give residents and tourists all the more reason to smile and enjoy the resort.
It echoes the sentiments of William Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night – “if music be the food of love play on”…

The event is also part of a wider nation-wide campaign “Amazing Thailand Amazing Value” managed by the Tourism Authority of Thailand to deliver events and value-for-money features to Thai and international travellers.

For music lovers it will certainly enhance their holiday and will also help to turn Pattaya into a musical paradise broadening its appeal.

The event is supported by well-known music companies such as GMM Grammy and its partners Modernine TV, Channel [V] Thailand, Channel [V] International and the Korea Foundation for International Exchange.

International musicians will be flown in by recording companies such as SM Entertainment from Korea, EEG from Hong Kong, Ocean Butterfly from China, House of Indies from Vietnam, Halo Music from Malaysia, AMPHEAD from Australia, INDEE RECORDS from Laos, and AVEX from Taiwan.

Visitors can choose their own style of music too. Are you into Pop, Hip-Hop, R&B, or Rock musicω The event features three music stages located at the Bali Hai pier at the southern end of the main bay, central Pattaya, and Pattaya Soi 4. Music themes will rotate between all three stages.

On Friday 20 March, visitors can enjoy Pop songs at the Bali Hai, Rock at central Pattaya and easy listening music at Soi 4. On Saturday, Pop and Rock will be performed at the Bali Hai stage, Hip-Hop at central Pattaya, and Jazz at Soi 4, while on Sunday, visitors can enjoy Rock at Bali Hai, Country Western music at central Pattaya, and Pop Rock at Soi 4.

Thai musicians include Golf&Mike, Pancake, Clash, ABNormal, Paradox, Bodyslam, Ebola, Zeal, Joey Boy and THE STAR.

International artists such as SHINEE and Girl’s generation from Korea, Kym Jin Sha from China, Cirque due Freak from Australia, Minh Thu from Vietnam, Rynn Lim from Malaysia, and Kenny Kwan from Hong Kong will also join the event.

TAT is responsible for two of the stages, one at the south Pattaya pier (Bali Hai) and one at Soi 4 on Pattaya beach road. The third stage in central Pattaya, is funded by a Bt10 million budget and run by Pattaya city and Chonburi Provincial Administrative Organisation.

For more information
TAT Call Center 1672
TAT Pattaya 66 (0) 3842 1005-6
e-mail : tatchon@tat.or.th

Pai Reggae Music Festival 2009

2008-12-27T04:50:00.000-08:00

Date : 24 - 25 January, 2009
Venue : Pai Tree House Resort ,Pai, Mae Hong Sorn

An unusual music festival is scheduled in the far north western province of Mae Hong Son, 24 to 25 February. The tiny village of Pai, a favourite destination with travellers who are eager to exchange their worries and work stress for a peaceful laid-back vacation, is not your standard venue for a Reggae music festival. Surrounded misty mountains Pai is better known for its idyllic environment and natural beauty where you can enjoy a simple guesthouse scene, treks to hill tribe villages and white-water rafting.
Now Pai is also the venue for the annual Reggae Musical Festival hosted at the quaint Pai Tree House. Here Reggae musicians from Pai and neighbouring districts will entertain visitors and locals just for the fun of playing their favourite music for friends and visitors alike.

Welcome to Reggae Music Festival 2009
"GREEN WORLD PAI SEASON"
The concept and theme behind this year Pai Reggae Festival is Global Warming. We want to make everyone aware that it is a problem that won’t go away. Everybody needs to make some effort, never mind how big or small. We want to spread the word to the world that Pai is a place to put on your holiday agenda, visit us, visit a place some call heaven, any time of the year. We join together with tour companies and travel agents and welcome their support for the party of the year. Set on 24-25 January 2009 at Pai Tree House Resort (Public area, Nong Krating Domain, Vieng Nei , Pai Mae Hong Sorn)

Free!! Member card in which you in green season (June-Aug)
will get free Shuttle bus and 25-50 % discount on room and adventure.

Pai Maehongson Thailand Reggae Festival 24-25 Jan 2009 # 4
Ticket price 390 Baht/day and receive premium gift at the event.
• Receive 1 Drink Free!
• VCD Pai Maehongson Reggae Festival 2008
• CD’s UTOPAI
• Premium Postcard 2009
• Premium Handbill 2009
• Get discount 40 % for book shop at this event and BANANA WORLD FESTIVAL
• Special!!..2 in 1 of ticket (Pai Maehongson Thailand Reggae Festival &BANANA WORLD FESTIVAL)
- Ticket of Pai Maehongson Thailand Reggae Festival
- Get discount 20-50 % for booking at resort and adventure activity in “GREEN SEASON 90 DAYS” JUNE-JULY-AUGUST
- Ticket of GREEN WORLD SEASON & BANANA WORLD FESTIVAL Since 3-7 JUNE 2009

**
1. Green Season Card Credit able to use on Green season only.
2. Member settle from 1 June 2009 – 30 September 2009

Online Booking www.thaiticketmajor.com
Call Center 02-262-3456
Due to 17 Jan 09

For more information call
• Pai Arts Club : 081-4931246
• Tourism Pai 053 699 935
• Travel Police 115 ,1699 , 053 611 812
• Pai Police Station 053 699 218
http://paireggaefest.com

Aka Hill Tribes Mini Light and Sound Presentation

2008-12-27T04:49:00.001-08:00

Date : Saturday 10 January / 14 Febuary / 14 March /11 April 2009
Venue : Chiang Rai Social Development Centre 12 on the Doi Mae Salong road
in Pa Sang Sub-district of Mae Chan, Chiang Rai

Chiang Rai province hosts its annual light and sound show that presents insights into the culture and daily life of the Aka hill tribes, resident in hilltop villages in Mae Chan District.

First introduced in 1999, the show is now staged once a month during the tourist high season from January to April.

This month, the show will be presented, 10 January, 14 Febuary, 14 March and then finally on 11 April, at the Chiang Rai Social Development Centre 12 on the Doi Mae Salong road in Pa Sang Sub-district of Mae Chan.

Aka hill tribe villagers perform at the centre demonstrating authentic renderings of their culture and lifestyle to visitors. There are also handicrafts on display.

The centre is also considering the introduction of home-stay accommodation that will focus on international tourists to encourage community-based tourism. It will allow visitors, who are interested in Aka traditions, to study the village up close with village elders providing instruction and insights into cottage industry and cultural activities.

The light and sound show is presented in both Thai and English, and runs from 1730 to 1930. Tickets cost Bt150 per person and the show with dinner is priced at Bt300 per person.

For more information, please call

TAT Chiang Rai Office
Tel. 66 (0) 5374 4674-5, 66 (0) 5371 7433

Chiang Rai Social Development Centre 12
Tel. 66 (0) 5391 4471

Ayutthaya

2008-12-18T18:00:00.000-08:00

Phranakhonsriayutthaya was the former capital of Thailand established on the bank of Chao Phraya River since the Buddhist Era 16 - 18. The traces of ancient cities and ruins, stories, chronicles, historical annals and stone tablets can be found at present. Prior to the establishment of Ayutthaya Kingdom in 1350, the town called "Ayothaya City" or "Ayothaya Srirama" or "City of King Rama" had been already constructed. In the east of the island. Ayutthya City was very prosperous in administration, politics and culture. At that time, three laws were used in the administration, that is, all-inclusive laws, slavery laws and loan laws.

King Ramathibodi I or King Uthong established Ayutthaya City as the capital in 1350. Ayutthaya had been the center of Siam for 417 years. The kingdom had been ruled by 33 kings from 5 dynasties, that is, Uthong Dynasty, Suphannabhumi Dynasty, Sukhothai Dynasty, Prasatthong Dynasty and Ban Plu Laung Dynasty. The kingdom lost the independence to Burma 2 times in 1569 where King Nereesuan the Great could redeem the independence in 1584 and the second time in 1767 where King Taksin could redeem the independence at the end of the same year. In addition, King Taksin also migrated people from Ayutthay Kingdom to establish Thonburi Kingdom, the new capital of Siam. However, Ayutthya was not deserted as some people still lived there. Thus, the city was appointed as the fourth-level city called "Muang Krung Kao."

King Bhuddhayodfah Chulalok the Great appointed Muang Krung Kao as the fourth-level city like in the reign of Thinburi dom. Later, King Rama V reformed the central and regional administration. The administration of "Theesapibarn" was established for the regional government. Namely, 304 cities in the same area were grouped as the county ruled by the commissioner. In 1895, the county of Krung Kao was established. Such county consisted of Ayutthaya, Angthong, Saraburi, Lopburi, Phromburi, Indraburi

In the period of the Prime Minister Field Marshal Por. Pibulsongkram, the policy was established to renovate the historic sites in Ayutthaya in order to celebrate the 25th anniversary of Buddhist century. In addition, in 1955, the Prime Minister of Burma visited Thailand and gave money in the sum of 200,000 Baht for the improvement of the temple and Phra Mongkholbopit. It could be mentioned that the significant renovation of ancient sites in Ayutthaya was seriously performed. Later, the Department of Fine Arts was responsible for the renovation. On 13 December 1991, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization or UNESCO then resolved and registered the ancient city of Ayutthaya as the "World Heritage."

Ayutthaya Kingdom had been established as the capital since 3 April 1350 and the kingdom was ended on 7 April 1767. During 417 years of the kingdom, there were a lot of stories related to the administration, independence redemption, heroic deeds, culture and tradition. Moreover, the city was abundant with plants and foods as the statement that ?There were fishes in water and rice in the fields.? In addition, Phranakhonsriayutthaya Province was full of temples, palaces and historical sites. During the reign of Ayutthaya, the kingdom was totally ruled by 33 kings from 5 dynasties as follows:
1. Uthong Dynasty, 4 kings
2. Suphannabhumi, 13 kings
3. Sukhothai Dynasty, 7 kings
4. Prasatthong Dynasty, 4 kings
5. Ban Plu Laung Dynasty, 6 kings

from ayutthaya.go.th

Ayutthaya Garden River Home

2008-12-18T17:54:00.000-08:00

Ayutthaya Garden River Home

Ayutthaya Garden River Home is like a Gateway to Ayutthaya World Heritage, the glorious historic capital city of Thailand. Here you will experience high quality healthcare services for your physical as well as mental relaxation including our weight loss programs designed to help decrease the risk of major illness. The fitness programs will allow guests to get away from day to day stresses and be recovered by complete happiness, peace of mind and relaxation. All set amidst pristine natural beauty in lush and green environment surrounded by the cool and refreshing Chao Phraya River. Amazingly, you can experience this tranquility only 45 mins north of Bangkok.

More Information Click
www.ayutthayagardenriverhome.com

Natural Wing Health Spa & Resort

2008-12-14T22:36:00.000-08:00

Natural Wing Health Spa & Resort

Natural Wing Health Spa & Resort are located at north West end of Koh Samui, like a Natural Preserve on the incredibly beautiful Island. Detox to Cleans and Slimming your body are served for your health

We boast the title of the "Most popular Spa on Koh Samui", as recommended in CNN’s world report. We also appear in numerous international and local media for offering outstanding Spa treament services.

Our Spa’s standardization was certified by Ministry of Public Health, the goverment of Thailand

The team at Natural Wing would like to warmly welcome you to Koh Samui to enjoy our natural healing spa services for a day or longer-come and stay with us and enjoy own private Thai style villa nestled in our beatiful landscaped grounds. Experience nature at its best here with our endless gardens, waterfalls and numerous goldfish pools.

More information www.naturalwing.com

Festival & Event

2008-12-14T22:32:00.000-08:00

International Street Show in Bangkok
Date : 19th - 21st December, 2008 at 3 p.m. - 9p.m.
Venue : Lumpini Park, Bangkok

At Lumpini Park from December 19-21, 2008, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration and Workpoint Entertainment Public Company Limited together with Ministry of Tourism and Sports, Tourism Authority of Thailand and Beauti Drink product, our main sponsor, proudly present "Festival of Happiness" to be a ’Gift’ for Thai and also our beloved tourists for Happy New Year season. There will be 40 national and international group performers joining the session for free entrance. And this will be the first time in Southeast Asia! From this year on, the event will be annual in every 3rd week of December. We aim "International Street Show in Bangkok" for world famous festival within 3 years from 2008.

Interview on Fishing in Phuket, Thailand With Wahoo's John Pearce

2008-12-04T07:35:00.000-08:00

Simon: What changes have you noticed since you started sport-fishing in Phuket?
John: Over the past two decades Phuket has earned the right to be classed as a true big game fishing destination, offering boats, an infrastructure and hotels of the standard well-heeled anglers expect. Over the last eighteen years that I have lived and fished the waters around Phuket as a fishing-charter captain I have seen many changes, some for the better, some for the worse - and also some things that have not changed at all.
Simon: Has the fishing got worse?
John: It hasn't got worse, it's got different as the fish have changed from always being at one island to suddenly appearing at one island or another in greater numbers. My own personal observation on what is happening is that we have seen a massive increase in the number of commercial boats chasing what I call 'baitfish', not only for human consumption, as in fish sauce, but also for making animal feeds for chickens. Fish are creatures of habit and if suddenly the food that they have been used to getting in a particular spot is not there any more they will move and find another source.
Simon: So, with all that happening, is Phuket a good fishing destination?
John: Absolutely, yes it is! Many of our anglers have had the best battles of their lives, especially with the large numbers of sailfish around the Islands of Racha Yai and Racha Noi, even in the low-tourist season of May- September. Some lucky anglers have even gone home having had the thrill of catching one of the decent-sized black marlin that appear between October and April.
Simon: Why come to Phuket?
John: I have been lucky enough to have visited some of the great fishing capitals of the world, so I am confident in giving you these main reasons why you should put Phuket on your map of destinations if you are a fishing enthusiast. Let's start with the international airport, which is very close to most of our two-star to five-star and above hotels and which is linked to most countries, either directly or through Bangkok. Thai people are the friendliest and smiliest folk on the planet. They serve superb, mouth-wateringly delicious and varied food. The island is blessed with lovely beaches and offers excellent and extremely varied alternative activities for non-angling companions. Phuket offers some of the best fishing to be found in Asia, on good boats which are reasonably priced and which have friendly crews, many of whom can speak reasonable English. So if you are on holiday and fancy a day or a week's fishing, get in touch with one of the local operators and have yourself a ball. And I almost forgot: we have award-winning cold beer as well!
Simon Ramsden is resident in Ao Nang, Thailand and runs Thailand climbing trips to Koh Lao Liang, Koh Yao Noi, Koh Phi Phi and Railay/Tonsai.
By Simon Ramsden

Laguna Phuket Triathlon 2008

2008-11-25T18:58:00.000-08:00

Laguna Phuket Triathlon 2008

Date : Sunday, 7 December 2008
begining at 7.00 am Registration open 1 April 2008
Venue : The upscale Laguna Phuket Resort occupies 600 acres of tropical beachfront parkland on the northwest coast of Phuket island in Southern Thailand.

The competition among the "iron men" from Thailand and international countries includes swimming, cycling and marathon racing. Also, there are activities to encourage the participants to experience the adventure routes along Phuket’s tourist attractions.

		COURSES 1.8k Swim The swim course comprises two bodies of water. Starting on the beach between the Dusit Laguna Resort and Laguna Beach Resort near the LBR Marine Centre, competitors swim 1,180 metres in the sea before sprinting 100 metres across the beach to swim the last 620 metres in a lagoon finishing at the Laguna Beach Resort Y-junction. Wetsuits are not allowed.
		55k Bike The bike course takes competitors out of Laguna Phuket onto narrow, winding roads. The course will be the same as in 2007, with some steep hilly sections on the road to Naithon Beach north of Laguna Phuket. Drafting is illegal. Suggested equipment includes a minimum of two water bottle cages. Athletes should consider a 24-28 tooth rear cassettes to ease the difficulty of hill climbs. Some of the road surfaces may be rough and athletes should use durable tires. The bike course will have 2 aid stations.
		12k Run The run course will be similar to the 2007 course. It is flat and leads runners north through the Laguna Phuket resort complex and onto the award-winning Laguna Phuket Golf Course, before looping back past the Wedding Chapel through Canal Shopping Village and finishing at the Laguna Beach Resort Y-junction. The course will have three aid stations approximately 2km apart that runners pass twice.

COMPETITOR INFORMATION

PRE-RACE INFORMATION
Registration - 6 December
10:00am - 3:00pm, Saturday, 6 December (See schedule for venue details). Please bring proper identification and a 500 Thai Baht deposit for your timing chip with you to claim your race kit.
Your race kit will include:
- Race number for bike & run
- Race belt
- Swim cap
- Competitor’s T-shirt
- Numbered bag for race gear
- (1) Invitation to the Pasta Party

Race Briefing - 1 December
A mandatory course briefing in English and Thai will be held on Saturday 6 December. See Race Week Schedule for details. There will be 3 sessions conducted in English as follows:
4:00pm-5:00pm for relay teams and first time triathletes
5:00pm-6:00pm for individual triathletes
6:00pm for professional triathletes

Awards and Professional Prize Purse
Equal men’s and women’s prize money will be awarded as follows:

1st	2nd	3rd	4th	5th
US$ 3,000	US$ 2,500	US$ 2,000	US$ 1,500	US$ 1,000

All contestants wishing to race for prize money must register as "pro" at race registration. Contestants registered as "pro" are not eligible to win age group awards. Contestants registering as "pro" are advised to check with their country’s national triathlon governing body to determine the impact of racing "pro" on amateur standing.

Thai Athlete Prize Money
The first Thai male and female amateur athletes will each receive 10,000 baht in prize money. Trophies will be awarded to the 1st, 2nd and 3rd place Thai male and female athletes.

Age Group Awards
First, second and third finishers in each age group category will receive a trophy at the Awards Banquet.

Label Gear
Label every piece of clothing and gear, including both shoes, before coming to Laguna Phuket.

Weather Conditions
Average air temperature for December in Phuket is 27°C/81°F with 85% humidity. Contestants MUST hydrate properly during race week, race morning and throughout the race. Bikes should be equipped with at least two water bottle cages.

Personal Safety
Always train with another person, especially in the water. While in the water, please wear a brightly coloured swim cap. When biking and running, please take precautions as Phuket drivers and motorcyclists are unpredictable. Take extreme caution when biking on ALL public roads. On Thursday and Friday of race week, organised rides on the bike course will depart from the Laguna Beach Resort Y-Junction at 8:00am, led by a police escort vehicle. It is strongly recommended that contestants train on the bike course only during one of these organised rides.

Pasta Party
Triathletes and relay teams are invited to attend the Pasta Party free of charge, upon presentation of an invitation please remember to bring your tickets to the event. Additional tickets for family and friends will be on sale during Registration on 1 December (Saturday). Ticket cost Baht 600.

Awards Banquet
An Awards Banquet will be held after the race. Tickets will be pre-sold online - please remember to bring your tickets to the event. If not sold out, additional tickets will be on sale at Registration on 1 December (Saturday). Ticket cost Baht 1,000.

Bike Storage
Bikes will be permitted to be stored in athlete’s hotel rooms. However, all maintenance must be done in hotel car parks in order to prevent damage to room furnishings.

Bike Shop / Bike Mechanic (4 December - 7 December)
It is NOT possible to rent racing or mountain bikes in Phuket. CYCLISTS MUST BRING BIKES WITH THEM. Athletes are encouraged to bring spare bike parts with them. A bike mechanic will be stationed at the Y-junction from Thursday, 4 December to Sunday, 7 December. The bike mechanic opens at 7.00am on Thursday and Friday, at 9.00 am on Saturday and 5.30 am on Sunday.

RACE DAY

Parking - 7 December
Competitors and spectators driving to Laguna Phuket on race morning should follow all signs and volunteer directions for available parking areas. Please arrive no later than 6:30am.

5:30am-6:45am - 7 December
Transition Area opens at Laguna Beach Resort Y-junction for check-in, numbering and placing equipment.

From the Transition Area at the Y-junction, athletes will be transferred to the Swim Start. Free shuttle buses will circulate every 10 minutes between the hotels. Fill bike bottles from your hotel room or home before arriving at Transition. Pre-race aid stations will be available at the Transition Area and the Swim Start. In addition, there will be 2 aid stations on the bike course, 3 aid stations on the run course and a post-race aid station and medical facilities at the finish area.

Race Start - Triathlon Wave #1 and Wave #2
7:00am and 7:10am - 7 December
Please see maps for course details.

Finisher Medals
Will be presented to every athlete who completes the race at the finish line.

Athlete Hospitality & Massage
09:30am - 1:00pm
Post race hospitality shall include a lunch box and a complimentary 15-minute massage behind the finish line. Note: Massage services are only available for triathletes.

Medical Tent
6:00am - 2:00pm
A Medical Tent will be located in the Finish Area at the Y-junction for athletes who require medical attention before and after the race. This area will be closed at 2:00pm. Any athletes in need of medical attention after 2:00pm should go to the Bangkok Hospital Phuket clinic at Canal Village shopping centre.

Post Race Equipment Pick-Up
In your registration pack, you will receive one numbered bag to be used for gear after the completion of the swim and the bike. Numbered bags will also be available at the Swim Start if you want to leave warm-up gear. This bag will be collected after the swim start and deposited at the Equipment Check-in/Information tent at the Athlete Only area at the main Transition Area.

All bags, equipment and bikes must be claimed and removed from the Transition Area by 2:00pm on race day.

To claim left items show race number which must correspond to the number on the bag(s). You will be responsible for transporting your own gear back to your hotel after the race.

Lost and Found
This will be located at the Transition Area at the Y-junction and will be open until 2:00pm on race day. After this time, any remaining lost property items will be transferred to the race office. Please remember to label all of your equipment before the race.

Finisher Certificates
A desk will be set up at the Awards Banquet for athletes to pick up their finisher certificates. Certificates will not be posted to athletes.

Pre-Awards Cocktail Party
5:00pm - 6:00pm - 7 December
Outside the marquee at the Sheraton Grande Laguna Phuket beach garden.

AWARDS BANQUET
6:00pm - 11:00pm - 7 December
The Awards Banquet will be held in the marquee at the Sheraton Grande Laguna Phuket beach garden. All athletes are invited to attend by purchasing tickets in advance online. Tickets must be presented to gain entry to the Banquet. If not sold out, tickets will be sold at Registration and possibly at the door.

Privacy Contact Information
If you have any questions, concerns, or comments about our privacy policy you may contact us using the information below:
By e-mail: webmaster@lagunaphukettriathlon.com
By Phone: +66 76 362 300
Website : www.lagunaphukettriathlon.com

Thailand International Balloon Festival 2008

2008-11-21T10:12:00.000-08:00

Thailand International Balloon Festival 2008

Date : 3^rd – 7^th December 2008

Venue : Khao Yai (War Dog Battalion, Pak Chong), Nakhon Ratchasima

The event is expected to attract over 300,000 spectators to witness a colourful showcase of hot air balloons from all over the world, including the USA, UK, Germany, France, Italy, Japan and Malaysia.

The first Festival, held in 2007, attracted over 150,000 Thai and foreign spectators and received wide coverage in all media.

The Thailand International Balloon Festival builds international awareness of Thailand, showcasing the wonderful weather conditions for balloon flying and the country’s unique and beautiful hinterland, proving that Thailand is more than a sunny beach!

Live Concerts; Farmers Fair; Fun Games/ Races; Fireworks; Wine Tasting; Food Tasting; Horse Shows; Dog Shows; Cowboy Shows; Archery; Marching Bands; and the Musical Balloon Glow & Festival Of Light & Fire.

Contact :

Earth Wind and Fire Company Limited

158/60 Moo 6 Cheungdoi, Doi Saket Chiang Mai, Thailand 50220

Tel : +66 53 - 292 - 224

Fax : +66 53 - 292 - 226

Website : www.thailandballoonfestival.com

Email : info@wind-and-fire.com

2008 Phuket King's Cup Regatta

2008-11-21T09:58:00.000-08:00

2008 Phuket King's Cup Regatta

Date : 29th November - 6th December 2008

Venue : Phuket, Thailand

The Phuket King’s Cup Regatta is Asia’s biggest and most popular regatta. More than a regatta, the week long event consists of great parties, great sailing and lots of fun.

Inaugurated in 1987 to celebrate the 60th birthday of His Majesty the King of Thailand, the event has been held every year since during the first week of December. In 2006, the event was voted as Yatching Event of the Year at the Christofle Asia Boating Awards. This honour follows a record year in December 2006 with over 100 boats entering the event and with a record media turnout. It is the second consecutive year the Phuket King’s Cup Regatta won this prestigious award.

With the Royal Patronage of His Majesty the King, the Regatta is organised by the Phuket King’s Cup Regatta Organizing Committee under the auspices of the Royal Varuna Yacht Club, in conjunction with the Yacht Racing Association of Thailand, the Royal Thai Navy and the Province of Phuket.

For more information contact :

Regatta Office, Tel. +66 (0) 7627 3380

e-mail : info@kingscup.com

website : www.kingscup.com

(The regatta is where further information and Notice of Race can be found.)

For racing inquiries, contact Simon James on racing@kingscup.com

SKYDINE DESIGN ON 25 “A 360-Degree Experience”

2008-10-12T20:36:00.000-07:00

Design Hotel and Spa
SKYDINE DESIGN ON 25 is Siam@Siam Design Hotel and Spa’s innovative concept of bar and restaurants on the 25th floor overlooking the center point linking the cosmopolitan business districts with skyscrapers in the east of Bangkok and the contrasting views of traditional Ratanakosin Island untainted by sky high towers. The project also provides magnificent views of several architectural landmarks, for instance, Golden Mountain at Wat Saket, Anata Samakom Throne Hall, Benchamapophit Temple (Marble Temple), Nang Leung Racecourse whilst unveiling the infinite views of the charming large green areas full of giant trees at Chitlada Palace. SKYDINE DESIGN ON 25 will dazzle all eyes with breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of Bangkok, offering one of the most spectacular spots in Bangkok to enjoy the unusual late afternoon watching the sun gradually drop towards the horizon. Uniquely outstanding, SKYDINE DESIGN ON 25 features Industrial Hip structure and Industrial Art decorations using steel and stainless steel as the main construction materials in the columns, shoulder poles and balconies to reflect the powerful, highly stable structure. The colour schemes of brightened deep blue and bright deep red are designed to express the bright and lively emotions of a happy lady, the hidden charm of the space 915.69 square meters, covering 2 dining sections, namely La Vue and The Roof Restaurant along with The Roof Champagne and Wine Bar which open daily from 6 pm to midnight. La Vue The 50-seat upscale European restaurant offers classic French and Italian ambience through a spacious and private dining experience surrounded by panoramic mirror decoration to offer superb, uninterrupted views of Ratanakosin Island and several architectural landmarks of Bangkok by night. A myriad of Bangkok views looking out from the 25th floor were creatively used in the decoration to make a frame around the panoramic mirror imitating the world’s famous painting, La Vue, which stands for the name of the restaurant. La Vue’s menu is truly exquisite. Only the finest ingredients from around the world are used in the food preparation and cooked by renowned chefs with years of experience in Southern Mediterranean cuisine. The food is cooked at the Skydine Design Kitchen, a see-through kitchen that reveals the entire process in the making of the famous dishes. La Vue’s signature is the marriage of immaculate dishes with specific types of first-class wine for ultimate dining pleasure, for instance, pan-seared foie gras with cumquat and apple compote, served with Kabinett Halbtroken, Schloss Vollrads 2006, or a popular seafood menu like lobster bisque with XO Cognac served with Macon Villages,Chameroy,Louis Latour 2005, etc. The Roof Restaurant This multi-level design restaurant provides every seat on the roof top experience with remarkable angles of Bangkok by night. Designed to accommodate private dining and various parties or functions of up to 130 seated guests, The Roof is also Thailand’s first stone grill alfresco restaurant. Food is freshly cooked on volcanic stones which can retain the heat for a period of 20-minute cooking. With the inside temperature exceeding 400 degrees Celsius, customers will be able to cook the food by themselves and eat it right away, a chance to enjoy “Hot Stone Grill” for the first time. Apart from a variety of international dishes made from the world’s finest ingredients, the Roof’s monthly Full Moon Dining is the restaurant’s signature event. The Roof Champagne & Wine Bar This 60-seat bar will complement your pre and post-dinner drinking pleasure to perfection through top-of-the-line champagne and wine collections from around the world, and in particular, your personal Sommelier with years of expertise to cater for every drinking need. The bar is unmatched in choices of exquisite and stylish pre-dinner drinks to entertain the customers while watching the amazing sunset. § Personalised Martini: The only place to offer a unique martini made by a personal Sommelier who will provide advice and cater to every need. § A large collection of the finest red and white wine from Bordeaux in the South of France and Mediterranean countries i.e. Chateau Mouton Rothschild, Chateau Lafite Rothschild, Chateau Latour, Chateau Margaux and Chateau Haut –Brion and also first class wine from California and Australia. § The World’s Renowned Champagne such as Krung, Dom Perignon, Veuve Clicquot Ponsardin and Pommery, Cuvee Louise Millesime, etc.

Thailand Festival & Event

November in Thailand What is the travel....

Silk Phuk Siew Festival and Red Cross Fair

2nd Annual Trio for Justice Half-Marathon and Bike Ride

Sukhothai Loi Krathong and Candle Festival 2010

Bridge over the River Khwae Fair

Blooming Bua Tong (Mexican Sunflower) Festival on Mae Oo Kaw

October 2010 Festival & Event Part 2

October 2010 Festival & Event Part 1

Buffalo Racing

October 16, 2010 - October 22, 2010

Poi Lern Sip Et Tradition

October 19, 2010 - October 31, 2010

Thewo alms offering at Phrathat Doi Kung Mu and walk to Wat Muai Tor. Houses are decorated with candles and lanterns, Chong Para procession, local games, as well as various

forms of entertainment.

Tak Bat Thewo Tradition

October 22, 2010 - October 24, 2010

Avoid chaos at the city .. Khan.

River Kwai Bridge Week

The 22nd Standard Charter Bangkok Marathon

The 21st Monkey Party

Bang Sai Loi Krathong Tam Prathip Festival

Loi Krathong Sai Festival

Tour of Mekong

Yi Peng Festival

Phuket Vegetarian Festival

Tak Bat Devo Festival

Bang Fai Phaya Nak (Naga Fireball)

Buffalo Racing

Sakon Nakhon Wax Castle Festival

Amazing Thailand Adventure Race Series

the sixth Bhumibol Dam International Mountain Bike Championship

The 11th Annual Central International Watch Fair 2009

Hua Hin Regatta 2009

Pattaya Marathon 2009

International Wax Sculpture

Tour de Isan 2009

Baby panda joins celebrity list

Thailand Tourism Festival 2009

PHUKET FILM FESTIVAL 2009

Sawadee.com Regatta 2009

Pepsi Thailand World Foot Volley Tournament

Miss Tiffany Universe 2009

Royal Ploughing Ceremony Day

Amarin Outdoor Unlimited Chiang Mai Challenge 2009

Sai Buri Fishing Competition

Songkran Festival

Phra Nakhon Khiri Muang Phet Fair

Magic moments in Khmer heritage

Pattaya International Music Festival 2009

5 th World Thai Martial Arts Festival

Pattaya International Music Festival 2009

Pai Reggae Music Festival 2009

Aka Hill Tribes Mini Light and Sound Presentation

Ayutthaya

Ayutthaya Garden River Home

Natural Wing Health Spa & Resort

Festival & Event

Interview on Fishing in Phuket, Thailand With Wahoo's John Pearce

Laguna Phuket Triathlon 2008

Thailand International Balloon Festival 2008

2008 Phuket King's Cup Regatta

SKYDINE DESIGN ON 25 “A 360-Degree Experience”

Thewo alms offering at Phrathat Doi Kung Mu and walk to Wat Muai Tor.
Houses are decorated with candles and lanterns, Chong Para procession, local games, as well as various