1.Songkran (Thai New Year)
Photo from Thailand http://www.ubonmag.com/
Date : 10 - 15 April 2010
This national celebration of the tradition Thai New Year captures the imagination of travellers for both its cultural and fun attributes; the latter being enthusiastic bouts of water splashing between friends and relatives.
In Bangkok, the Songkran Grand Celebration will be held between 10 and 15 April around the Rattanakosin Island district, sometimes called “Old Bangkok.”
The main celebrations, in the capital, focus on bathing rites of replicas of revered Buddha images originating from various provinces in the North, South, East and central regions, interspersed with traditional food and dessert-making demonstrations and cultural performances. The opening ceremony will take place, 10 April, at Phra Chetupon Wimol Manklaram or the Temple of the Reclining Buddha.
There are also important celebrations through the country at various tourist destinations:
• Old City Songkran Festival, Ayutthaya
• Songkran Festival, Chon Buri
• Amazing Songkran, Suphan Buri
• Phra Pradaeng Songkran Festival, Samut Prakarn
• Songkran Festival, Chiang Mai
• Songkran Festival, Sukhothai
• Fantastic Northeast Songkran,Golden Shower Tree and ‘Kan’ Festival and Sticky Rice Road in Khon Kaen
• Grand Northeast Songkran Festival, Nong Khai
• Songkran Nakhon Phnom and Thai-Lao New Year Celebration
• Hat Yai Midnight Songkran, Songkhla
• Grand Songkran Festival and ‘Nang Dan’ Parade, Nakhon Si Thammarat
• Songkran on the Beach and Phuket Bike Week 2010
Contact:
Events Planning Division, Tourism Authority of Thailand
Tel:0 2250 5500 ext. 3470-3:Call Centre 1672 or http://www.tourismthailand.org/
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2.Variations on the Songkran theme
Pattaya celebrates Songkran a week later
Pattaya and its neighbouring resorts in Chonburi province celebrate Songkran a week later than the rest of the country, which gives the festival’s hardcore followers a second round of fun if they are still on holiday.
In Pattaya, the festival is officially called Wanlai and starts in Naklua a village community at the northern tip of the resort and continues in unabated enthusiasm, all week throughout the resort, from the Naklua tip to the Jomtien toe.
However, the more traditional elements of the festival are best witnessed in Naklua, 18 April, when residents turn out for a parade of Buddha images and an image bathing ceremony.
About 20 km north of Pattaya resort, residents in the beachside town of Bangsaen start the festivities on 16 April, with a grand competition to build more than 100 sand pagodas on the beach.
Monks receive alms from residents at a beachside venue. Once the ceremonies are over beach sport competitions begin with a riot of water splashing between spectators.
Nearby, Si Chang, a small island close to the coastal town of Si Racha, is the scene of a sand pagoda competition, where local children patiently build their dream castles. Festivities include local sports and a beauty contest.
Sattahip, a naval base town 25 km south of Pattaya, also celebrates Songkran, 15 to 17 April, in a similar style with sand pagoda and beauty contests.
Further south, along the eastern seaboard, provinces such as Rayong, Chantaburi and Trat are all in sync with the rest of the country celebrating the festival 12 to 15 April.
For mor information
TAT Call Center 1672 ; http://www.songkran.net/
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3.Mekong River International Multi-Sport ITU Asian Cup 2010
Date : 26 - 28 March 2010
Venue : Along the Mekong river, Amphoe Mueang Nong Khai, Nong Khai
Sports enthusiasts travel to a Mekong river border town to compete for glory and a handsome purse.
Triathlon enthusiasts are a healthy and resilient bunch. They travel far and wide, against all odds, to participate in their favourite three-discipline sport. That was very apparent when just days after Bangkok’s airports reopened, following a week of down time, late last year, the Phuket Triathlon hardly missed a beat in attendance.
Organisers reported less than 5% cancellations, a solid confirmation that sports tourism in Thailand is on a roll.
So no surprises when a host of new triathlon events appear on Thailand’s annual events calendar One of them is scheduled for Nong Khai, a town on the banks of the Mekong River, facing neighbouring Laos. This small northeast town picked up the baton to host an event endorsed by the International Triathlon Union. It promises to put the upper Northeast region on the tourism map.
Mekong River International Multi-Sport ITU Asian Cup, 2010, provides a packed programme over three days, from 26 to 28 March, with the starting and finishing line in downtown Nong Khai next to the picturesque Mekong River.
Nong Khai is just 52 km from the nearest airport at Udon Thani, served by both Thai Airways International and low-cost airline, Air Asia. A daily train service also runs from Bangkok to Nong Khai’s station, located close to the Mekong River. Currently the line ends short of the Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge, but a new track across the river bridge to the Lao capital, Vientiane should open later this month.
Hightlights :
Buddy Bike & Run
Aquathlon Asian Cup Series 2009
Duathlon Asian Cup Series 2009
Triathlon ITU Asian Cup 2009
Let’s see Thai-Lao Friendship Brideg, OTOP Fair, Food Fair, etc.
For More Information :
Triathlon Association of Thailand, Tel. 66 (0) 2578 4515, (0) 814 843 335
TAT Udon Thani, Tel. 66 (0) 4232 5406-7
Events Planning Division,TAT, Tel. 66 (0) 2250 5500 ext. 3475-77
TAT Call Center 1672 website : http://www.thaitriathlon.org/
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4.Poi Sang Long Ceremony
Date : April 2010
Venue : In Mae Hong Son Municipality, Mae Hong Son province
The Poi Sang Long ceremony in Mae Hong Son is a Buddhist novice ordination ceremony, but it is unlike any other ceremony of its type in the country. Young boys aged between 7 and 14 are ordained as novices so they can spend time studying Buddhist doctrines. It is believed that by pursuing ordination for their parents, they gain merit.
The origins of this festival lie in Buddhist legend. It is believed that the tradition follows in the footsteps of Prince Rahula, the Buddha's own son, who gave up his worldly life to follow his father's spiritual teachings. Prince Rahula became the youngest ordained monk and the first novice in Buddhism. Subsequently it became a tradition for young boys to be ordained so they can undertake the study of Buddhist teachings. With deep reverence for the Buddhist religion, the local residents in Mae Hong Son province are of the view that the celebrations should be as grand as possible
The Poi Sang Long ceremony is unique to Mae Hong Son province. A colourful spectacle to witness, it is perhaps one of the most delightful festivals in Mae Hong Son, attracting people from far and wide.
Contact information:
TAT Call Center 1672
TAT Mae Hong Son Office :Tel. +66 (0) 5361 2982 – 3
Web site: http://www.travelmaehongson.org/
E–mai l: tatmhs@tat.or.th
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5.Phra Nakhon Khiri Muang Phet Fair
Date : 10 - 19 April 2010
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.
For more information :
TAT Call Center 1672
TAT Phetchaburi Office, Tel. 66 (0) 3247 1005-6
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
January onTrip
1.Bor Sang Umbrella and Sankampaeng Handicraft Festival
Photo from Thailand http://www.ubonmag.com/
Date : 15 - 17 January 2010
Venue : Bor Sang village, Chiang Mai
Village east from Chiang Mai, history 100 years the village has been associated with the production of umbrellas made from Saa paper derived from mulberry tree bark .designed beautiful
For more information
TAT Chiang Mai Office, Tel. 66 (0) 5324 8604, 5324 8607, 5324 1466
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2.Pai Chang World Reggae 2010
Date : 29-30 January 2010
Venue : Coffee-in-Love, Pai-Mea Hong Son
Pai in the mountains highway 1,095, 135 km west north of Chiang Mai lines Mae Hong Son travel through the mountain path, winding more than 700 curves with Mini-bus service hours from Station Arcade Mai every day.
SGA Airlines from Chiang Mai to 1,105 and 1,250. On Friday, Sunday is the third flight 1505. Roundtrip fare standards Bt3, 860 including tax. Go to: http://www.sga.go.th. /. For people who love adventure drive motor side. The view beautiful through the mountains, visit the creek water as and to Pai.
For more information :
Pai Arts Club Tel : 081 493 1246
Website : http://www.paireggaefest.com/
E-mail : paiwellfargo@hotmail.com
Photo from Thailand http://www.ubonmag.com/
Date : 15 - 17 January 2010
Venue : Bor Sang village, Chiang Mai
Village east from Chiang Mai, history 100 years the village has been associated with the production of umbrellas made from Saa paper derived from mulberry tree bark .designed beautiful
For more information
TAT Chiang Mai Office, Tel. 66 (0) 5324 8604, 5324 8607, 5324 1466
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2.Pai Chang World Reggae 2010
Date : 29-30 January 2010
Venue : Coffee-in-Love, Pai-Mea Hong Son
Pai in the mountains highway 1,095, 135 km west north of Chiang Mai lines Mae Hong Son travel through the mountain path, winding more than 700 curves with Mini-bus service hours from Station Arcade Mai every day.
SGA Airlines from Chiang Mai to 1,105 and 1,250. On Friday, Sunday is the third flight 1505. Roundtrip fare standards Bt3, 860 including tax. Go to: http://www.sga.go.th. /. For people who love adventure drive motor side. The view beautiful through the mountains, visit the creek water as and to Pai.
For more information :
Pai Arts Club Tel : 081 493 1246
Website : http://www.paireggaefest.com/
E-mail : paiwellfargo@hotmail.com
Monday, February 22, 2010
March on Trip
1.The 11th Thailand International Kite Festival ( Colouring the Sky )
Photo from Thailand http://www.ubonmag.com/
Date: Saturday 13 – Sunday 14 March 2010 from 10.00 – 21.00 hrs
Venue: Mrigadayavan Palace,Naresuan Camp,Amphoe Cha-am ,Phetchaburi
Kite flying is a popular sport in the world that have developed over decades, currently used in advanced manufacturing technology to a wider range of beauty and strength.
Back to 400 BC from the annals of Chinese engineers found that technical name Kungshu Pan (Lu Ban) build wooden bird that can fly in the sky 3 days; Therefore, it is considered the world's first kite.
In Thailand, kite flying origin in Sukhothai and Ayutthaya using. Chula kite-Pakpao built in Ayutthaya period and the competition was held to term Rattanakhosin. LL reign was that love that fight Chula kite Pakpao of his brother. . Westerners compare Chula kite is that men and women that are Pakpao. kite flying is still the most popular sports in the Rama IV, kite flying field with artificial kite flying competition held at the Dusit Palace in 1856 which. He is president of the self. in modern Rama VI, kite flying is a sport and restored prince Phirom PhaKdi kite flying competition held at Luang field.
Tourism Authority of Thailand (You Station) organized the first international kite festival in Thailand in 1989.
In 2010 the Tourism Authority of Thailand (You Station)). With Phetchaburi Province, Naresuan Camp King Ram VI Camp, Thailand under the Royal Sports World, Bangkok. Adminitration Thailand Association kite fliers and kite fun Sky Pilot Club will hold 11 Thailand International kite festival between 13 to 14 March 2010 at Cha Am, Petchaburi. Province.
Main activities
1. 4 regions Thai Kite Flying Shows
2. International Kite Flying Show
3. International Night Flying Show
4. Demonstration and exhibition of Thai Kites
5. Demonstration of the Chula- Pakpao Kite Fighting
6. Competition and demonstration of Stunt Kite
7. Fast kite Flying Contest
8. Fighting Kite Show
9. Flat Kite Contest
10. Invention of creative kites
11. Kite stall Contest
12. Kite street market and clinic
13. Art for children
14. Food and handicraft booths
Other interesting activities
1. Parachute show
2. Radio controlled model airplane show and competition
3. Visit Mrigadayavan Palace
4. Energy-saving car rally
Contact:
Events Planning Division, Tourism Authority of Thailand
Tel: 0 2250 5500 ext. 3470-5; TAT Call Centre 1672 or http://www.tourismthailand.org/
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2.World Thai Martial Arts Festival and Waikru Muaythai Ceremony (Nai Khanomtom Day)
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: 10 - 17 March 2010
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.
For More Information :
TAT Call Center 1672; www.ideabar.com/muaythai
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3.Mekong River International Multi-Sport ITU Asian Cup 2010
Date : 26 - 28 March 2010
Venue : Along the Mekong river, Amphoe Mueang Nong Khai, Nong Khai
Love love playing sport or Triathlon trip to Mekong River border cities to compete for glory and beauty purse.
Mekong River International Multi-Sport ITU Asian Cup, 2,010, the project contains more than three days, 26-28 มีนาคม to start and finish lines in the city next to picturesque Mekong River Nong Khai.
Travel from the nearest airport at Udon Thani, Nong Khai 50 km away served as Thai Airways and low-cost airline, Air Asia. Train services also run daily from Bangkok to Nong Khai station located near the Mekong River. As the end of this line. Short Thai Lao Friendship Bridge, but a new bridge across the river to monitor the capital Vientiane, Laos, should open later this month.
Hightlights :
Buddy Bike & Run
Aquathlon Asian Cup Series 2009
Duathlon Asian Cup Series 2009
Triathlon ITU Asian Cup 2009
Let’s see Thai-Lao Friendship Brideg, OTOP Fair, Food Fair, etc.
For More Information :
Triathlon Association of Thailand, Tel. 66 (0) 2578 4515, (0) 814 843 335
TAT Udon Thani, Tel. 66 (0) 4232 5406-7
Events Planning Division,TAT, Tel. 66 (0) 2250 5500 ext. 3475-77
TAT Call Center 1672; website : http://www.thaitriathlon.org/
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4.King’s Cup Elephant Polo Tournament
Date : 15 - 21 March 2010
Venue : Anantara Golden Triangle Resort, Chiang Rai
Before the competition is blessing ceremony will be held before the opening match of holy water over his players, both animal and to ensure competitive success. By a male ghost costumes Chang (Khru Ba Hat. ) decorated colourfully pachyderms and holding regular flag.
Elephant population in Thailand is targeted to add approximately 50,000 in 1950 and 100,000 in 1900.
Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) certification Cup Elephant Polo, is described as one of the country focused annual events. It will happen in the Anantara Resort Golden Triangle area and free.
For more information
On King’s Cup Elephant Polo, please visit www.anantaraelephantpolo.com
Anantara Resort Golden Triangle is located 60km north of Chiang Rai’s international airport.
For enquiries and reservations, please call + 66 (0) 5378 4084 or + 66 (0) 2 477 0760
or email infogt@anantara.com
For more information please visit http://www.anantara.com/
Photo from Thailand http://www.ubonmag.com/
Date: Saturday 13 – Sunday 14 March 2010 from 10.00 – 21.00 hrs
Venue: Mrigadayavan Palace,Naresuan Camp,Amphoe Cha-am ,Phetchaburi
Kite flying is a popular sport in the world that have developed over decades, currently used in advanced manufacturing technology to a wider range of beauty and strength.
Back to 400 BC from the annals of Chinese engineers found that technical name Kungshu Pan (Lu Ban) build wooden bird that can fly in the sky 3 days; Therefore, it is considered the world's first kite.
In Thailand, kite flying origin in Sukhothai and Ayutthaya using. Chula kite-Pakpao built in Ayutthaya period and the competition was held to term Rattanakhosin. LL reign was that love that fight Chula kite Pakpao of his brother. . Westerners compare Chula kite is that men and women that are Pakpao. kite flying is still the most popular sports in the Rama IV, kite flying field with artificial kite flying competition held at the Dusit Palace in 1856 which. He is president of the self. in modern Rama VI, kite flying is a sport and restored prince Phirom PhaKdi kite flying competition held at Luang field.
Tourism Authority of Thailand (You Station) organized the first international kite festival in Thailand in 1989.
In 2010 the Tourism Authority of Thailand (You Station)). With Phetchaburi Province, Naresuan Camp King Ram VI Camp, Thailand under the Royal Sports World, Bangkok. Adminitration Thailand Association kite fliers and kite fun Sky Pilot Club will hold 11 Thailand International kite festival between 13 to 14 March 2010 at Cha Am, Petchaburi. Province.
Main activities
1. 4 regions Thai Kite Flying Shows
2. International Kite Flying Show
3. International Night Flying Show
4. Demonstration and exhibition of Thai Kites
5. Demonstration of the Chula- Pakpao Kite Fighting
6. Competition and demonstration of Stunt Kite
7. Fast kite Flying Contest
8. Fighting Kite Show
9. Flat Kite Contest
10. Invention of creative kites
11. Kite stall Contest
12. Kite street market and clinic
13. Art for children
14. Food and handicraft booths
Other interesting activities
1. Parachute show
2. Radio controlled model airplane show and competition
3. Visit Mrigadayavan Palace
4. Energy-saving car rally
Contact:
Events Planning Division, Tourism Authority of Thailand
Tel: 0 2250 5500 ext. 3470-5; TAT Call Centre 1672 or http://www.tourismthailand.org/
******************************************************************
2.World Thai Martial Arts Festival and Waikru Muaythai Ceremony (Nai Khanomtom Day)
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: 10 - 17 March 2010
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.
For More Information :
TAT Call Center 1672; www.ideabar.com/muaythai
******************************************************************
3.Mekong River International Multi-Sport ITU Asian Cup 2010
Date : 26 - 28 March 2010
Venue : Along the Mekong river, Amphoe Mueang Nong Khai, Nong Khai
Love love playing sport or Triathlon trip to Mekong River border cities to compete for glory and beauty purse.
Mekong River International Multi-Sport ITU Asian Cup, 2,010, the project contains more than three days, 26-28 มีนาคม to start and finish lines in the city next to picturesque Mekong River Nong Khai.
Travel from the nearest airport at Udon Thani, Nong Khai 50 km away served as Thai Airways and low-cost airline, Air Asia. Train services also run daily from Bangkok to Nong Khai station located near the Mekong River. As the end of this line. Short Thai Lao Friendship Bridge, but a new bridge across the river to monitor the capital Vientiane, Laos, should open later this month.
Hightlights :
Buddy Bike & Run
Aquathlon Asian Cup Series 2009
Duathlon Asian Cup Series 2009
Triathlon ITU Asian Cup 2009
Let’s see Thai-Lao Friendship Brideg, OTOP Fair, Food Fair, etc.
For More Information :
Triathlon Association of Thailand, Tel. 66 (0) 2578 4515, (0) 814 843 335
TAT Udon Thani, Tel. 66 (0) 4232 5406-7
Events Planning Division,TAT, Tel. 66 (0) 2250 5500 ext. 3475-77
TAT Call Center 1672; website : http://www.thaitriathlon.org/
******************************************************************
4.King’s Cup Elephant Polo Tournament
Date : 15 - 21 March 2010
Venue : Anantara Golden Triangle Resort, Chiang Rai
Before the competition is blessing ceremony will be held before the opening match of holy water over his players, both animal and to ensure competitive success. By a male ghost costumes Chang (Khru Ba Hat. ) decorated colourfully pachyderms and holding regular flag.
Elephant population in Thailand is targeted to add approximately 50,000 in 1950 and 100,000 in 1900.
Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) certification Cup Elephant Polo, is described as one of the country focused annual events. It will happen in the Anantara Resort Golden Triangle area and free.
For more information
On King’s Cup Elephant Polo, please visit www.anantaraelephantpolo.com
Anantara Resort Golden Triangle is located 60km north of Chiang Rai’s international airport.
For enquiries and reservations, please call + 66 (0) 5378 4084 or + 66 (0) 2 477 0760
or email infogt@anantara.com
For more information please visit http://www.anantara.com/
February on Trip
1.Chinese New Year Festival in Thailand
Date : 5 - 22 February 2010
Venue :Chinese New Year to the world even Big in the ASEAN.
Contact:
Events Planning Division, Tourism Authority of Thailand
Tel: 0 2250 5500 ext. 3465-7
Call Centre 1672 or http://www.tourismthailand.org/
Chinese New Year, Bangkok, suphan buri, Ratchaburi, Ayutthaya, Chiang Mai, Nakhon Sawan, Nakhon Ratchasima, Songhkla, Phuket
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2.King Narai Reign Festival
Date : 16 – 22 February 2010
Venue : Narai Palace, Mueang Lop Buri District, Lop Buri
Experience the life style. Back in time from the ancient King Narai the Great and his visit to commemorate merits of Lopburi and the nation.
Contact :
- Lop Buri Public Relations Office, Tel : +663 642 0333
- Tourism Authority of Thailand, Lop Buri Office Tel : 0-3642-2758-9
TAT Call Center 1672
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3.Ratchaburi Chinese New Year 2010
Date : 14-22 February, 2010
Venue : Ammarin Rd. - Woradej Rd., Ratchaburi
Let's get back to the old Chinese period, walking in the fantastic square where is decorated in Chinese style. Experience the wonderful dragon and lion dance, the Chinese cultural performances and several entertainments as well as enjoy food&goods fairs.
For more information, please contact :
Ratchaburi Municipality Office
Tel. 0 3233 7688; TAT Phetchaburi:Tel. 0 3247 1005-6
http://www.ratchaburichinatown.net/
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4.PTT Pattaya Open 2010
Date : 7 - 14 February 2010
Venue : Dusit Resort Pattaya, Chonburi
PTT Pattaya Open is one profession female tennis competition held longest by Sony Ericcson WTA Tour was arranged for the first time in 1991. World leading tennis stars attended
Contact :
- Pattaya City, Tel. 0 3825 3100
- ASEAN Tennis Confederation, Tel 08 1480 5979
- Pentangle Promotion Co. Ltd., Tel 0 2382 3491-3, www.pentanglepromotions.com
- Tourism Authority of Thailand, Pattaya Office, Tel: 0 3842 3990,
0 3842 7667, 0 3842 8750
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5.Nakhon Sawan Chinese New Year Festival 2010
Date : 7 - 18 February, 2010
Venue : Talat Pak Nam Pho and along the Chao Phraya River
Popular destinations for Chinese New Year Celebration, a city so-called
“Pak Nam Pho” - Nakhon Sawan. Pay respect to the Chinese gods and goddesses as well as enjoy the wonderful performances throughout the event i.e. Chinese cultural performance, Chinese puppet from Beijing, Chinese Acrobatic etc. Partake in the Chinese New Year Countdown ceremony on 13 February 2010, experience the Chinese puppet of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region during 15-18 February 2010.
For more information, please contact:
The Organizing Committee Tel. 056 213 614
http://www.paknampho-chinesenewyear.com/
TAT Uthai Thani Tel. 0 5651 4982; http://www.tourismthailand.org/
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6.King Rama II Commemoration
Date : 6-7 February 2010
Venue : King Rama II Park, Amphawa District, Samut Songkhram
Visitors are invited to witness the beauty of King Rama II Memorial Park, the demonstration of Thai life style, classical Thai dances, ancient Thai and Chinese .Shopping local handicrafts OTOP, products and Thai foods.
Contact:
Tourism and Sport Office, Samut Sakhon Province, Tal : +663 481 5980
King Rama II Memorial Park, Tel : +663 475 1666, +663 475 1376
Tourism Authority of Thailand, Samut Songkhram OfficeTel:0-34752847-8
E-mail : tatsmsk@tat.or.th
TAT Call Center 1672
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7.Suphan Buri Chinese New Year Festival 2010
Date : 12 - 16 February, 2010 (18.00 – 22.00 hrs.)
Venue : Suphan Buri City Pillar Shrine (Dragon Descendants Museum)
Feast your eyes on the fantastic performance from the troupe of Chinese performers from Beijing, Tibet, Xin Jiang Autonomous Region, Mongolia Autonomous Region, Jilin, Heilongjian Autonomous Region, Zhejiang Sichaun, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region and Liaoning as well as enjoy various Thai cultural performance, entertainments, and fireworks.
For more information, please contact: Com Art Production
Tel. 0 2954 3206-9
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8.Khorat Chinese New Year Festival 2010
Date : 13 - 15 February, 2010 (start at 15.00 hrs. onward)
Venue : Thao Suranari Statue Area and Suranari Park, Nakhon Ratchasima
Time to say Happy Chinese New Year in Khorat! Enjoy the beautiful decoration in the city, feat your eyes and ears on the Chinese cultural performance and music, stimulate your heart with the wonderful dragon and lion dance, Enjoy foods&products OTOP
For more information, please contact:
Nakhon Ratchasima Municipality Office
Tel. 0 4424 2600 ext 1507, 1534, 0 4423 4752, 0 4423 4763
http://www.koratcity.net/ TAT Nakhon Ratchasima Tel.0 4421 3030,
04421 3666 http://www.tourismthailand.org/
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9.Pattaya Chinese New Year Festival 2010
Date: 14-16 February, 2010
Venue : Bali Hai Port (South Pattaya), Chon Buri
Start the new year at the beautiful city by the sea,Experience the fabulous dragon and lion dance, the Chinese cultural performance and acrobatic; presented from the troupe of Chinese performers as well as various forms of entertainment. Enjoy food and goods fair thoughout the event.
For more information, please contact :
TAT Pattaya Tel. 0 3842 8750, 0 3842 7667 , 0 3842 3990
http://www.tourismthailand.org/ Pattaya City Hall
Tel. 0 3825 3129, 0 3842 3990 or Pattaya City Call Center 1337
******************************************************************
10.Chiang Mai Chinese New Year 2010
Date: 14-15 February, 2010 (06.00 – Midnight)
Venue: Kuang Meru Road and China Town, Chiang Mai
Start your new day with Chinese exercise at 06.00 hrs., enjoy Chinese cultural performance and music, various forms of entertainment, and tasting various food from evening until midnight.
For more information, please contact :
Chiang Mai Municipality Office, Tel. 0 5325 9365
TAT Chiang Mai, Tel. 0 5324 8604, 0 5324 8607
http://www.tourismthailand.org/
******************************************************************
11.Hat Yai Chinese New Year Festival
Date: 14-17 February, 2010, 18.00 – 23.00 hrs.
Venue: Hat Yai City Municipality Park and Si Nakhon School, Songkhla
Welcome the troupe of Chinese performers from Beijing, Tibet, Xin Jiang Autonomous Region, Mongolia Autonomous Region, Jilin, Heilongjian Autonomous Region, Zhejiang Sichaun, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region and Liaoning. Experience their fantastic perf ormance, taste several delicious food and purchase local product as well as enjoy various entertainments.
For more information, please contact :
Hat Yai Municipality Office , Tel. 0 7420 0041 www.hatyaicity.go.th
TAT Hat Yai , Tel. 0 7423 1055, 0 7423 8518
TAT Call Center 1672 Wedsite : http://www.tourismthailand.org/
******************************************************************
12.Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Chinese New Year 2010
Date : 15 - 19 February, 2010
Venue : Naresuan Rd. (Chao Phrom Market – Chedi Chao Ai Chao Yi)
Visit Krungkao ; the old city of Ayutthaya in different ambience. Pay respect to the Chinese shrines as a good start of new year, enjoy the magnificent float, witness the lantern contest, experience the dragon and lion dance as well as enjoy walking along the street of Chinese decoration style and tasting various food.
For more information, please contact :
Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Provincial Administration
Tel. 0 3524 4451; TAT Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Tel. 0 3532 2730-1
******************************************************************
13.Trang Underwater Wedding Ceremony
Date : 12-14 February 2010
Venue : Ko Kradan, Sikao District, Trang .Now in its 14th year, Trang’s underwater wedding ceremony, 12 to 14 February,
In 2000, they announced the wedding underwater largest by Guinness Book of Records as the recent opening ceremony will be landscaped with beaches, beautiful sea islands.to cool.
Trang 870 km far from Bangkok. Train journey takes 15 hours.
Trang blessed wonderful variety of unspoiled beaches and islands for honeymoons and also from the richer if they happen to love diving.
The ceremony will be taught basic dive techniques by certified PADI Naui or two internationally recognized organizations.
Amid evidence that couples into the crystal blue water, sandy seabed in order to legally binding vows to use another language. 'To relatives and friends can join in the fun as part of a wedding celebration includes three days. in clay.
Wearing white wedding gowns, or set to display national brides grooms for their wedding on the beach location Pak Meng, 15 km from Trang. That this ceremony was being Thailand, February 14 before friends and relatives before the fleet of ships. transfer couples the beautiful island board they dive to the bottom for the official register their vows.
Supported by the community Tourism Authority of Thailand and the national airline
For more informations :
TAT Trang Office, Tel : 66 (0) 7521 5867, 7521 1058, 7521 1085
Trang Tourism Coordination Centre, Tel. 66 (0) 7521 5867-8
Trang Chamber of Commerce, Tel. 66 (0) 2545 3322
Website : http://www.underwaterwedding.com/ ******************************************************************
14.Bangkok Chinese New Year Festival at China Town 2010
Date : 14 - 15 February 2010
Venue : Yaowarat Square, the China Town of Bangkok
Come to celebrate the Chinese New Year at the biggest Chinatown in Thailand, Yaowarat Road renowned as the Golden Road, the Land of the Siamese Dragon. Watch the beauty, treasure the Chinese cultural demonstrations and experience a wide range of Chinese cuisine available at famous restaurants as well as fashion shows depicting ancient Chinese attire from various regions. The goldsmith shops offer you beautiful souvenirs. For more information,
Please contact:
Samphanthawong Administration District Tel. 0 2234 9688, 0 2233 1224-8
TAT Bangkok Tel. 0 2250 5500 ext 2991-5
http://www.tourismthailand.org/
******************************************************************
15.Phuket International Blues Rock Festival
Date : 26 - 27 February 2010
Venue : Hilton Phuket Arcadia Resort and Spa, Phuket
The 2010 Phuket International Blues Rock Music Festival two-night event.
Established to support local charities, this year’s event will donate funds to charities that organise education for young children -- the Phuket International Women’s Club and the Phuket Has Been Good To Us Foundation. For more information
http://www.phuketbluesfestival.com/
Date : 5 - 22 February 2010
Venue :Chinese New Year to the world even Big in the ASEAN.
Contact:
Events Planning Division, Tourism Authority of Thailand
Tel: 0 2250 5500 ext. 3465-7
Call Centre 1672 or http://www.tourismthailand.org/
Chinese New Year, Bangkok, suphan buri, Ratchaburi, Ayutthaya, Chiang Mai, Nakhon Sawan, Nakhon Ratchasima, Songhkla, Phuket
******************************************************************
2.King Narai Reign Festival
Date : 16 – 22 February 2010
Venue : Narai Palace, Mueang Lop Buri District, Lop Buri
Experience the life style. Back in time from the ancient King Narai the Great and his visit to commemorate merits of Lopburi and the nation.
Contact :
- Lop Buri Public Relations Office, Tel : +663 642 0333
- Tourism Authority of Thailand, Lop Buri Office Tel : 0-3642-2758-9
TAT Call Center 1672
******************************************************************
3.Ratchaburi Chinese New Year 2010
Date : 14-22 February, 2010
Venue : Ammarin Rd. - Woradej Rd., Ratchaburi
Let's get back to the old Chinese period, walking in the fantastic square where is decorated in Chinese style. Experience the wonderful dragon and lion dance, the Chinese cultural performances and several entertainments as well as enjoy food&goods fairs.
For more information, please contact :
Ratchaburi Municipality Office
Tel. 0 3233 7688; TAT Phetchaburi:Tel. 0 3247 1005-6
http://www.ratchaburichinatown.net/
******************************************************************
4.PTT Pattaya Open 2010
Date : 7 - 14 February 2010
Venue : Dusit Resort Pattaya, Chonburi
PTT Pattaya Open is one profession female tennis competition held longest by Sony Ericcson WTA Tour was arranged for the first time in 1991. World leading tennis stars attended
Contact :
- Pattaya City, Tel. 0 3825 3100
- ASEAN Tennis Confederation, Tel 08 1480 5979
- Pentangle Promotion Co. Ltd., Tel 0 2382 3491-3, www.pentanglepromotions.com
- Tourism Authority of Thailand, Pattaya Office, Tel: 0 3842 3990,
0 3842 7667, 0 3842 8750
******************************************************************
5.Nakhon Sawan Chinese New Year Festival 2010
Date : 7 - 18 February, 2010
Venue : Talat Pak Nam Pho and along the Chao Phraya River
Popular destinations for Chinese New Year Celebration, a city so-called
“Pak Nam Pho” - Nakhon Sawan. Pay respect to the Chinese gods and goddesses as well as enjoy the wonderful performances throughout the event i.e. Chinese cultural performance, Chinese puppet from Beijing, Chinese Acrobatic etc. Partake in the Chinese New Year Countdown ceremony on 13 February 2010, experience the Chinese puppet of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region during 15-18 February 2010.
For more information, please contact:
The Organizing Committee Tel. 056 213 614
http://www.paknampho-chinesenewyear.com/
TAT Uthai Thani Tel. 0 5651 4982; http://www.tourismthailand.org/
******************************************************************
6.King Rama II Commemoration
Date : 6-7 February 2010
Venue : King Rama II Park, Amphawa District, Samut Songkhram
Visitors are invited to witness the beauty of King Rama II Memorial Park, the demonstration of Thai life style, classical Thai dances, ancient Thai and Chinese .Shopping local handicrafts OTOP, products and Thai foods.
Contact:
Tourism and Sport Office, Samut Sakhon Province, Tal : +663 481 5980
King Rama II Memorial Park, Tel : +663 475 1666, +663 475 1376
Tourism Authority of Thailand, Samut Songkhram OfficeTel:0-34752847-8
E-mail : tatsmsk@tat.or.th
TAT Call Center 1672
******************************************************************
7.Suphan Buri Chinese New Year Festival 2010
Date : 12 - 16 February, 2010 (18.00 – 22.00 hrs.)
Venue : Suphan Buri City Pillar Shrine (Dragon Descendants Museum)
Feast your eyes on the fantastic performance from the troupe of Chinese performers from Beijing, Tibet, Xin Jiang Autonomous Region, Mongolia Autonomous Region, Jilin, Heilongjian Autonomous Region, Zhejiang Sichaun, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region and Liaoning as well as enjoy various Thai cultural performance, entertainments, and fireworks.
For more information, please contact: Com Art Production
Tel. 0 2954 3206-9
******************************************************************
8.Khorat Chinese New Year Festival 2010
Date : 13 - 15 February, 2010 (start at 15.00 hrs. onward)
Venue : Thao Suranari Statue Area and Suranari Park, Nakhon Ratchasima
Time to say Happy Chinese New Year in Khorat! Enjoy the beautiful decoration in the city, feat your eyes and ears on the Chinese cultural performance and music, stimulate your heart with the wonderful dragon and lion dance, Enjoy foods&products OTOP
For more information, please contact:
Nakhon Ratchasima Municipality Office
Tel. 0 4424 2600 ext 1507, 1534, 0 4423 4752, 0 4423 4763
http://www.koratcity.net/ TAT Nakhon Ratchasima Tel.0 4421 3030,
04421 3666 http://www.tourismthailand.org/
******************************************************************
9.Pattaya Chinese New Year Festival 2010
Date: 14-16 February, 2010
Venue : Bali Hai Port (South Pattaya), Chon Buri
Start the new year at the beautiful city by the sea,Experience the fabulous dragon and lion dance, the Chinese cultural performance and acrobatic; presented from the troupe of Chinese performers as well as various forms of entertainment. Enjoy food and goods fair thoughout the event.
For more information, please contact :
TAT Pattaya Tel. 0 3842 8750, 0 3842 7667 , 0 3842 3990
http://www.tourismthailand.org/ Pattaya City Hall
Tel. 0 3825 3129, 0 3842 3990 or Pattaya City Call Center 1337
******************************************************************
10.Chiang Mai Chinese New Year 2010
Date: 14-15 February, 2010 (06.00 – Midnight)
Venue: Kuang Meru Road and China Town, Chiang Mai
Start your new day with Chinese exercise at 06.00 hrs., enjoy Chinese cultural performance and music, various forms of entertainment, and tasting various food from evening until midnight.
For more information, please contact :
Chiang Mai Municipality Office, Tel. 0 5325 9365
TAT Chiang Mai, Tel. 0 5324 8604, 0 5324 8607
http://www.tourismthailand.org/
******************************************************************
11.Hat Yai Chinese New Year Festival
Date: 14-17 February, 2010, 18.00 – 23.00 hrs.
Venue: Hat Yai City Municipality Park and Si Nakhon School, Songkhla
Welcome the troupe of Chinese performers from Beijing, Tibet, Xin Jiang Autonomous Region, Mongolia Autonomous Region, Jilin, Heilongjian Autonomous Region, Zhejiang Sichaun, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region and Liaoning. Experience their fantastic perf ormance, taste several delicious food and purchase local product as well as enjoy various entertainments.
For more information, please contact :
Hat Yai Municipality Office , Tel. 0 7420 0041 www.hatyaicity.go.th
TAT Hat Yai , Tel. 0 7423 1055, 0 7423 8518
TAT Call Center 1672 Wedsite : http://www.tourismthailand.org/
******************************************************************
12.Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Chinese New Year 2010
Date : 15 - 19 February, 2010
Venue : Naresuan Rd. (Chao Phrom Market – Chedi Chao Ai Chao Yi)
Visit Krungkao ; the old city of Ayutthaya in different ambience. Pay respect to the Chinese shrines as a good start of new year, enjoy the magnificent float, witness the lantern contest, experience the dragon and lion dance as well as enjoy walking along the street of Chinese decoration style and tasting various food.
For more information, please contact :
Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Provincial Administration
Tel. 0 3524 4451; TAT Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Tel. 0 3532 2730-1
******************************************************************
13.Trang Underwater Wedding Ceremony
Date : 12-14 February 2010
Venue : Ko Kradan, Sikao District, Trang .Now in its 14th year, Trang’s underwater wedding ceremony, 12 to 14 February,
In 2000, they announced the wedding underwater largest by Guinness Book of Records as the recent opening ceremony will be landscaped with beaches, beautiful sea islands.to cool.
Trang 870 km far from Bangkok. Train journey takes 15 hours.
Trang blessed wonderful variety of unspoiled beaches and islands for honeymoons and also from the richer if they happen to love diving.
The ceremony will be taught basic dive techniques by certified PADI Naui or two internationally recognized organizations.
Amid evidence that couples into the crystal blue water, sandy seabed in order to legally binding vows to use another language. 'To relatives and friends can join in the fun as part of a wedding celebration includes three days. in clay.
Wearing white wedding gowns, or set to display national brides grooms for their wedding on the beach location Pak Meng, 15 km from Trang. That this ceremony was being Thailand, February 14 before friends and relatives before the fleet of ships. transfer couples the beautiful island board they dive to the bottom for the official register their vows.
Supported by the community Tourism Authority of Thailand and the national airline
For more informations :
TAT Trang Office, Tel : 66 (0) 7521 5867, 7521 1058, 7521 1085
Trang Tourism Coordination Centre, Tel. 66 (0) 7521 5867-8
Trang Chamber of Commerce, Tel. 66 (0) 2545 3322
Website : http://www.underwaterwedding.com/ ******************************************************************
14.Bangkok Chinese New Year Festival at China Town 2010
Date : 14 - 15 February 2010
Venue : Yaowarat Square, the China Town of Bangkok
Come to celebrate the Chinese New Year at the biggest Chinatown in Thailand, Yaowarat Road renowned as the Golden Road, the Land of the Siamese Dragon. Watch the beauty, treasure the Chinese cultural demonstrations and experience a wide range of Chinese cuisine available at famous restaurants as well as fashion shows depicting ancient Chinese attire from various regions. The goldsmith shops offer you beautiful souvenirs. For more information,
Please contact:
Samphanthawong Administration District Tel. 0 2234 9688, 0 2233 1224-8
TAT Bangkok Tel. 0 2250 5500 ext 2991-5
http://www.tourismthailand.org/
******************************************************************
15.Phuket International Blues Rock Festival
Date : 26 - 27 February 2010
Venue : Hilton Phuket Arcadia Resort and Spa, Phuket
The 2010 Phuket International Blues Rock Music Festival two-night event.
Established to support local charities, this year’s event will donate funds to charities that organise education for young children -- the Phuket International Women’s Club and the Phuket Has Been Good To Us Foundation. For more information
http://www.phuketbluesfestival.com/
May On Trip
1.Visakha Buddha Bucha Festival
Photo from Thailand http://www.ubonmag.com/
Date : 22 – 28 May 2010
Venue : Sanam Luang, Phranakhon District, Bangkok
Activities
Decorated processions on Visakha Bucha Day of government and private working units and exhibition about Visakha Bucha Day, contest of flower bush Trays, Contest of Soraphanya Reciting
For more information, please contact
Bangkok Tourism Division Tel. 0 2225 7612-4; http://thai.tourismthailand.org/
**********************************************************************************
2.Yasothon Bun Bangfai Rocket Festival
Date : 5 - 9 May 2010
Venue : Phaya Thaen Park, Mueang District, Yasothon
The underlying logic and science behind the famous rocket festival, scheduled for 5 to 9 May, in the unassuming northeast town of Yasothon, is not to be found in a chemistry laboratory.
While the rocket owners pack as much as 25 kg of black powder into plastic or bamboo pipes to give their homemade missiles take off, the blueprints for this exceptionally noisy festival are traced in the mystical skies ruled by gods. Approaching rain clouds signal the start of the rice planting season, but according to northeastern folklore the first raindrops fall only when the gods are in the mood for love. They need encouragement hence the importance of the Bun Bang Fai, or rocket festival, to stir the mythical community, resident in the heavens, to bless earth with fertility and rain.
One mother of all rockets shoots high into the sky possibly for a kilometre or more stimulating the gods to action. Its vapour trail and height is seen as an omen. The higher it goes, the more rain will fall on the northeast plateau bringing good fortune and a bumper rice harvest.
None of these lofty goals prevent Yasothon’s residents and thousands of visitors from the more earthly pleasures of merry making associated with their homemade rockets.
All sizes and shapes are built around a simple plastic or bamboo pipe packed solid with black powder and fuses. They can be up to 10 metres, or more, in length, as long as they are capable of powering into the skies at blast off. Anything short of that spectacle prompts a chorus of laughter from the crowd and even a few missiles of mud aimed at the head of the hapless rocket owner.
While the rockets compete, the crowd is entertained with comedy, often bawdy with a smattering of dirty jokes and raucous country music. It’s a genuine farming community excuse to have fun and get the planting season off to a good start.
Accidents are few and far between, but as the beer and rice whisky flows, missiles may stutter, wobble or even do some low flying antics over the tents and entertainment stages.
Rocket festivals are held throughout the region and in neighbouring Laos, but Yasothon residents, noted for their sense of humour, inspire an event that draws international visitors attracted by a hilarious three-day party. It embodies I-san’s ability to rise above the hardships of tilling the land.
Ironically, at any other time of the year, Yasothon is a sleepy northeast town that hardly warrants a second glance. Rarely visited by tourists, it is overshadowed by its neighbour Ubon Ratchathani, 98 km to the southeast. Considered the prime tourism gateway to the lower I-san region, Ubon Ratchathani’s airport is served by both the national airline, Thai Airways International, and low-cost airlines. It is possible to hire a car at the airport and drive northwest on Highway 23 to Yasothon.
The town’s hotels are full during this short festival and hotels will double their rates to cash in on the festival’s popularity. There are also hotels in Roi-et, 60 km northwest of Yasothon, while some visitors may decide to stay in Ubon and embark on a daytrip returning after sunset
Contact :
TAT Ubon Ratchathani Office
Tel : 66 (0) 4524 3770-1, 66 (0) 4525 0714
Yasothon Municipality Office ;Tel : 66 (0) 4571 1397 Ext. : 112
***********************************************************************************
3.World’s Durian Festival
Date : May 2010
Venue : Chanthaburi
Activities
Decorations of fruits trays of government and private sectors, Trade Fair of Housewives, Local OTOP Food Fair, Fruit Decoration Caravan, Fruit and Processed Products Contest, Good Quality Jewelry and Accessories Fair
For fature information :
Office of Administration, Chanthaburi, Tel. 0 3931 1001 ;TAT Rayong, Tel. 0 3865 5420-1
***********************************************************************************
4.Rayong Funkky Fruit Festival
Date : May 2010
Venut : Rayong City
We welcome all to the brand new "Rayong Funky Fruit Festival"-a borderless celebration of heritage, nature & culture in this stunning province of Rayong. We celebrate Rayong's natural gifts with "StarFruit", an exhibition and promotion of Rayong's great agricultural tradition as well as "Rayong in Pictures". The heritage & peoples of Rayong are given new life in Live Poetry in the "Suntorn Pu Lives!" performances as well as "the Originals"-musical performance by artists from the original peoples of Thailand's East - the Khmers, the Tai, even the rare Chong peoples. To this festival of great food, culture and exhibition we add a full-blown Funky Fruit Musiq Festival featuring the Best of Thai Musiq & our own original World Musiq recipes...
Come join the Funk 'n Fun right here in Rayong. Call us at 0 2733 2709 for details or email us at toddeastwest@yahoo.com
for a full schedule of shows and activities, go to toddeastwest.com or call Jeep at 08 9666 1184
Funky Fruit & Culture-Rayong Rocks He!
TAT Rayong, Tel. 0 3865 5420-1
Photo from Thailand http://www.ubonmag.com/
Date : 22 – 28 May 2010
Venue : Sanam Luang, Phranakhon District, Bangkok
Activities
Decorated processions on Visakha Bucha Day of government and private working units and exhibition about Visakha Bucha Day, contest of flower bush Trays, Contest of Soraphanya Reciting
For more information, please contact
Bangkok Tourism Division Tel. 0 2225 7612-4; http://thai.tourismthailand.org/
**********************************************************************************
2.Yasothon Bun Bangfai Rocket Festival
Date : 5 - 9 May 2010
Venue : Phaya Thaen Park, Mueang District, Yasothon
The underlying logic and science behind the famous rocket festival, scheduled for 5 to 9 May, in the unassuming northeast town of Yasothon, is not to be found in a chemistry laboratory.
While the rocket owners pack as much as 25 kg of black powder into plastic or bamboo pipes to give their homemade missiles take off, the blueprints for this exceptionally noisy festival are traced in the mystical skies ruled by gods. Approaching rain clouds signal the start of the rice planting season, but according to northeastern folklore the first raindrops fall only when the gods are in the mood for love. They need encouragement hence the importance of the Bun Bang Fai, or rocket festival, to stir the mythical community, resident in the heavens, to bless earth with fertility and rain.
One mother of all rockets shoots high into the sky possibly for a kilometre or more stimulating the gods to action. Its vapour trail and height is seen as an omen. The higher it goes, the more rain will fall on the northeast plateau bringing good fortune and a bumper rice harvest.
None of these lofty goals prevent Yasothon’s residents and thousands of visitors from the more earthly pleasures of merry making associated with their homemade rockets.
All sizes and shapes are built around a simple plastic or bamboo pipe packed solid with black powder and fuses. They can be up to 10 metres, or more, in length, as long as they are capable of powering into the skies at blast off. Anything short of that spectacle prompts a chorus of laughter from the crowd and even a few missiles of mud aimed at the head of the hapless rocket owner.
While the rockets compete, the crowd is entertained with comedy, often bawdy with a smattering of dirty jokes and raucous country music. It’s a genuine farming community excuse to have fun and get the planting season off to a good start.
Accidents are few and far between, but as the beer and rice whisky flows, missiles may stutter, wobble or even do some low flying antics over the tents and entertainment stages.
Rocket festivals are held throughout the region and in neighbouring Laos, but Yasothon residents, noted for their sense of humour, inspire an event that draws international visitors attracted by a hilarious three-day party. It embodies I-san’s ability to rise above the hardships of tilling the land.
Ironically, at any other time of the year, Yasothon is a sleepy northeast town that hardly warrants a second glance. Rarely visited by tourists, it is overshadowed by its neighbour Ubon Ratchathani, 98 km to the southeast. Considered the prime tourism gateway to the lower I-san region, Ubon Ratchathani’s airport is served by both the national airline, Thai Airways International, and low-cost airlines. It is possible to hire a car at the airport and drive northwest on Highway 23 to Yasothon.
The town’s hotels are full during this short festival and hotels will double their rates to cash in on the festival’s popularity. There are also hotels in Roi-et, 60 km northwest of Yasothon, while some visitors may decide to stay in Ubon and embark on a daytrip returning after sunset
Contact :
TAT Ubon Ratchathani Office
Tel : 66 (0) 4524 3770-1, 66 (0) 4525 0714
Yasothon Municipality Office ;Tel : 66 (0) 4571 1397 Ext. : 112
***********************************************************************************
3.World’s Durian Festival
Date : May 2010
Venue : Chanthaburi
Activities
Decorations of fruits trays of government and private sectors, Trade Fair of Housewives, Local OTOP Food Fair, Fruit Decoration Caravan, Fruit and Processed Products Contest, Good Quality Jewelry and Accessories Fair
For fature information :
Office of Administration, Chanthaburi, Tel. 0 3931 1001 ;TAT Rayong, Tel. 0 3865 5420-1
***********************************************************************************
4.Rayong Funkky Fruit Festival
Date : May 2010
Venut : Rayong City
We welcome all to the brand new "Rayong Funky Fruit Festival"-a borderless celebration of heritage, nature & culture in this stunning province of Rayong. We celebrate Rayong's natural gifts with "StarFruit", an exhibition and promotion of Rayong's great agricultural tradition as well as "Rayong in Pictures". The heritage & peoples of Rayong are given new life in Live Poetry in the "Suntorn Pu Lives!" performances as well as "the Originals"-musical performance by artists from the original peoples of Thailand's East - the Khmers, the Tai, even the rare Chong peoples. To this festival of great food, culture and exhibition we add a full-blown Funky Fruit Musiq Festival featuring the Best of Thai Musiq & our own original World Musiq recipes...
Come join the Funk 'n Fun right here in Rayong. Call us at 0 2733 2709 for details or email us at toddeastwest@yahoo.com
for a full schedule of shows and activities, go to toddeastwest.com or call Jeep at 08 9666 1184
Funky Fruit & Culture-Rayong Rocks He!
TAT Rayong, Tel. 0 3865 5420-1
June On Trip
1.Phi Ta Khon Festival
Photo from Thailand http://www.ubonmag.com/
June 25 - 27, 2010
Dan Sai District, Loei District and Province
A HAPPY GATHERING OF FUN-LOVING SPIRITS
The Phi Ta Khon festival is unique to the Dan Sai district in Loei Province and reflects the local Isan belief in ghosts and spirits. Held once a year, it is part of a grand merit-making festival known as the "Boon Luang" festival.
The origins of the Phi Ta Khon Festival can be found in the tale of Lord Buddha's last great incarnation before attaining Enlightenment. In Buddhist accounts, it is said that when Prince Vessandara, the Buddha's penultimate incarnation, returned to his city, it was such a joyous occasion that the village spirits came forth to join the welcoming parade. This very colourful and vibrant Phi Ta Khon procession is the central focus of the celebrations.
In a lively re-enactment of the tale, the young men of the community dress up as "spirits" wearing long trailing costumes made from colourful strips of cloth sewn together.
The hideous-looking Phi Ta Khon mask which is made of dried sticky rice husk is painted in bright red, green or other colours, and features the characteristic long pointed nose. This completes the transformation. The clanging sound of the square cowbells worn around the waist announces the presence of the spirits who wield phallic-shaped long-handled swords decorated with red paint. The good-natured, fun-loving spirits mingle among the crowd, teasing and amusing all who take part in the procession. Spectators and visitors are welcome to join in the fun.
There are two types of "spirits" featured in the Phi Ta Khon procession namely the "Phi Ta Khon Yai" — the supreme Phi Ta Khon, and the "Phi Ta Khon Lek", the ones that are commonly found. The making of the Phi Ta Khon Yai involves the performance of a sacred ritual to seek the blessings of the supreme powers before work on the Phi Ta Khon Yai masks can be initiated. It is also a task reserved exclusively for the descendants of families in which the tradition of making Phi Ta Khon masks has been practised for several generations. The Phi Ta Khon Yai is made of bamboo and is dressed in either male or female attire.
Contact information:
Accommodation in Dan Sai District
- Phu Pha Nam Resort Tel: 042 078078-9
- Rang Yen Resort Tel: 042 809511 – 3, 042 809514
- Lay Leelawadee Resort Tel: 042 801277
- SB Resort Tel: 042 891918
- Na Thum Nam Taeng Homestay Tel: 042 892339,891583, 042 086 8624812
Accommodation in Phu Ruea District
- Phu Dara Resort Tel: 042 801138-9
- Phu Ruea Busba Tel: 042 899330, 042 899229
- Phu Ruea Resort Tel: 042 899048, 042 899042
- Baan Thongchai Resort Tel: 042 899116
Contact information:
Tourism Authority of Thailand, Loei Office
Tel: +66 (0) 4281 2812;Fax: +66 (0) 4281 1480 ; E-mail: tatloei@tat.or.th
DESTINATION HIGHLIGHTS - QUICK REFERENCE
Loei is a border town adjacent to present-day Laos, formerly known as the Lan Xang Kingdom in the past. Many of the temples and archaeological sites in Loei thus reflect the influence of the Lan Xang artistic style, particularly the sloping roof covered with wooden tiles commonly found in Loei. Other distinctive features can be seen in the Ubosot or ordination hall and the Viharn, the assembly hall.
* PHRA THAT SI SONG RAK STUPA
The temple which was built in 1560 is of special significance as it symbolizes the fraternal relationship between two kings, namely Somdet Phra Maha Chakkaphat of the Ayutthaya Kingdom and Phra Chao Chaiya Chetthathirat of the Lan Xang Kingdom, who took a pledge of peace at the stupa that neither would encroach on the other's territory, and to unify their forces against the invading army.
The Lan-Xang style stupa is located on a hill by the Man River and marks the borderline between the two kingdoms. The stupa is a 30-metres high brick-and-concrete structure in the shape of a "cubical lotus", similar to the Phra That Phanom stupa in Nakhon Phanom Province, Phrat That Luang in Vientianne and other such stupas found along the banks of the Mekong River.
* WAT PHO CHAI TEMPLE
The temple was built in the late Ayutthaya period and has served as the town's sanctuary and moral refuge for generations.
Assumed to be of the Chiang Saen period, the temple houses a magnificent statue depicting the meditating Buddha with an elongated face and a flamboyant top-knot. The mural paintings in the Viharn or assembly hall depict the Jataka, the ten previous lives of the Lord Buddha. An inscription on the northern wall suggests that the mural paintings were completed in 1852 during the reign of King Rama IV. Mural paintings on the outer walls of the viharn were completed in 1916.
* PHRA THAT SATCHA STUPA
Phra That Satcha literally means the temple of truthful pledge.
One year following the collapse of the Phra That Phanom in Nakhon Phanom, considered to be the most revered Buddhist stupa in Northeastern Thailand, this 33-metre high stupa was constructed on a large rocky foundation.
Modelled after the original Phra That Phanom, the Phra That Satcha was constructed to continue the religious symbolism represented by the original stupa in Nakhon Phanom. This helped to heal the sense of loss following the tragic collapse of the original stupa and re-proclaimed the pledge to preserve Buddhism in the region.
Relics of the Lord Buddha and his followers and soil from the original Phra That Phanom were consecrated within the new stupa. A gilded Buddha's footprint is housed within the stupa
***********************************************************************************
2.Thailand Tourism Festival
Date : June 2010
Venue : 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
***********************************************************************************
3.Hua Hin Jazz Festival
Date : 12 - 14 June 2010
Venue : Hua Hin Beach, Prachuap Khiri Khan
Music lovers flock to Hua Hin. Annual jazz festival draws top bands from region.
Music lovers, from Bangkok and neighbouring countries keep their calendars free, mid-June, so they can head south from Bangkok down Highway 4 to the small upscale resort of Hua Hin where they can enjoy a music festival that delivers the best jazz and blue bands from around Asia.
The 8th Hua Hin Jazz Festival will be held, 12 to 14 June, at two sites at Hua Hin, 200 km south of Bangkok, in Prachuab Khiri Khan Province. Entrance to all performances is free.
Hua Hin has been associated with the country’s jazz community since the 1950s and the jazz festival is organised annually in honour of the musical talents of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej.
Organisers also point out that the event celebrates the occasion of Hua Hin’s 100th anniversary.
The festival draws on the inspiration of HM the King, who has penned a host of jazz compositions and is a fine saxophone player in his own right. Hua Hin is also an important base from where HM King has initiated rural projects over the years that promote village economies in nearby provinces. Therefore, the town is justly proud of its royal heritage, second only to the Thai capital, Bangkok. A seaside location and its variety of accommodation, across all categories, help to make it an ideal venue to host a music festival
The International jazz scene will be represented by three bands – Shakatak from the UK, Malene Mortensen, Denmark and Popsanova, Brazil.
Out of Asia the audience can enjoy the music of Noon a famous band from Japan, Estrella from Malaysia and the ever popular Brass Monkeys from the Philippines.
More than 15 Thai jazz bands are booked to perform including, Infinity, Bangkok Connection, Gail Dila and Mellow Motif.
Bands will perform on three stages on the beach and at Phonkingphet Public Park in the town centre. Performances during the three-day festival are free and continue from 1530 until midnight.
The event is managed by Plus 5 Company and Fatima Broadcasting International Company on behalf of provincial offices and the Tourism Authority of Thailand.
Contact :
TAT Call Center 1672
TAT Phetchaburi Office, Tel : 66 (0) 3247 1005-6
***********************************************************************************
4.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 http://www.a-plusgroup.com/
**********************************************************************************
5.Amazing Thailand Grand Sale 2009
Date : 1 June to 31 August 2009
Venue : Department stores, hotels, restaurants, and tourist attraction nationwide
Thailand’s annual “Amazing Thailand Grand Sale” got underway this month and continues to offer visitors great bargains right through to 31 August.
This year, as fuel prices escalate, both visitors and residents are looking for more value and bigger discounts when they are shopping. Thailand never disappoints.
Most mega stores and shopping malls are offering discounts of between 10 to 70%, so there are bargains galore for the shopper prepared to browse around the stores.
Fortunately, most of Bangkok’s major shopping malls and stores are located close to the city’s skytrain or metro transport systems, making it very convenient to hop from one store to the next.
Both the Skytrain and the Metro, offer day use stored-value cards for visitors to make it even more convenient to use the two systems.
Bangkok’s main shopping districts and streets are to be found along Ploenchit and Sukhumvit roads.
Many of the department stores have direct bridge linking them to Skytrain stations. Just a short walk from the Skytrain stations and visitors discover some pretty impressive department stores and shopping plazas namely Siam Discovery Centre, Siam Centre, Central World Plaza, Erawan Bangkok, Amarin Plaza, Gaysorn, Central Chidlom, Home Pro Plus, Robinson Department Store, The Emporium and The Mall Department Store.
Discounts are also available in King Power duty free shops, both at Suvarnabhumi Airport and downtown locations. There are even discount deals on luxury treatments at spas, a round of golf at a selection of courses at all major tourist destinations, travel packages and even medical check-ups at world-class hospitals.
The three-month campaign also embraces a variety of destinations beyond Bangkok such as Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Hua Hin, Cha-am, Pattaya, Nakhon Ratchasima, Udorn Thani, Phuket, Krabi, Hat Yai and Samui Island.
Grand Sale prizes are offered in conjunction with the campaign sponsor, Visa Card, and include bargain holiday packages to premier destinations such as Phuket and Samui.
Contact : Tourism Investment Department, Tourism Authority of Thailand
Tel : 66 (0) 2250 5500 ext. 2951
***********************************************************************************
6.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
Photo from Thailand http://www.ubonmag.com/
June 25 - 27, 2010
Dan Sai District, Loei District and Province
A HAPPY GATHERING OF FUN-LOVING SPIRITS
The Phi Ta Khon festival is unique to the Dan Sai district in Loei Province and reflects the local Isan belief in ghosts and spirits. Held once a year, it is part of a grand merit-making festival known as the "Boon Luang" festival.
The origins of the Phi Ta Khon Festival can be found in the tale of Lord Buddha's last great incarnation before attaining Enlightenment. In Buddhist accounts, it is said that when Prince Vessandara, the Buddha's penultimate incarnation, returned to his city, it was such a joyous occasion that the village spirits came forth to join the welcoming parade. This very colourful and vibrant Phi Ta Khon procession is the central focus of the celebrations.
In a lively re-enactment of the tale, the young men of the community dress up as "spirits" wearing long trailing costumes made from colourful strips of cloth sewn together.
The hideous-looking Phi Ta Khon mask which is made of dried sticky rice husk is painted in bright red, green or other colours, and features the characteristic long pointed nose. This completes the transformation. The clanging sound of the square cowbells worn around the waist announces the presence of the spirits who wield phallic-shaped long-handled swords decorated with red paint. The good-natured, fun-loving spirits mingle among the crowd, teasing and amusing all who take part in the procession. Spectators and visitors are welcome to join in the fun.
There are two types of "spirits" featured in the Phi Ta Khon procession namely the "Phi Ta Khon Yai" — the supreme Phi Ta Khon, and the "Phi Ta Khon Lek", the ones that are commonly found. The making of the Phi Ta Khon Yai involves the performance of a sacred ritual to seek the blessings of the supreme powers before work on the Phi Ta Khon Yai masks can be initiated. It is also a task reserved exclusively for the descendants of families in which the tradition of making Phi Ta Khon masks has been practised for several generations. The Phi Ta Khon Yai is made of bamboo and is dressed in either male or female attire.
Contact information:
Accommodation in Dan Sai District
- Phu Pha Nam Resort Tel: 042 078078-9
- Rang Yen Resort Tel: 042 809511 – 3, 042 809514
- Lay Leelawadee Resort Tel: 042 801277
- SB Resort Tel: 042 891918
- Na Thum Nam Taeng Homestay Tel: 042 892339,891583, 042 086 8624812
Accommodation in Phu Ruea District
- Phu Dara Resort Tel: 042 801138-9
- Phu Ruea Busba Tel: 042 899330, 042 899229
- Phu Ruea Resort Tel: 042 899048, 042 899042
- Baan Thongchai Resort Tel: 042 899116
Contact information:
Tourism Authority of Thailand, Loei Office
Tel: +66 (0) 4281 2812;Fax: +66 (0) 4281 1480 ; E-mail: tatloei@tat.or.th
DESTINATION HIGHLIGHTS - QUICK REFERENCE
Loei is a border town adjacent to present-day Laos, formerly known as the Lan Xang Kingdom in the past. Many of the temples and archaeological sites in Loei thus reflect the influence of the Lan Xang artistic style, particularly the sloping roof covered with wooden tiles commonly found in Loei. Other distinctive features can be seen in the Ubosot or ordination hall and the Viharn, the assembly hall.
* PHRA THAT SI SONG RAK STUPA
The temple which was built in 1560 is of special significance as it symbolizes the fraternal relationship between two kings, namely Somdet Phra Maha Chakkaphat of the Ayutthaya Kingdom and Phra Chao Chaiya Chetthathirat of the Lan Xang Kingdom, who took a pledge of peace at the stupa that neither would encroach on the other's territory, and to unify their forces against the invading army.
The Lan-Xang style stupa is located on a hill by the Man River and marks the borderline between the two kingdoms. The stupa is a 30-metres high brick-and-concrete structure in the shape of a "cubical lotus", similar to the Phra That Phanom stupa in Nakhon Phanom Province, Phrat That Luang in Vientianne and other such stupas found along the banks of the Mekong River.
* WAT PHO CHAI TEMPLE
The temple was built in the late Ayutthaya period and has served as the town's sanctuary and moral refuge for generations.
Assumed to be of the Chiang Saen period, the temple houses a magnificent statue depicting the meditating Buddha with an elongated face and a flamboyant top-knot. The mural paintings in the Viharn or assembly hall depict the Jataka, the ten previous lives of the Lord Buddha. An inscription on the northern wall suggests that the mural paintings were completed in 1852 during the reign of King Rama IV. Mural paintings on the outer walls of the viharn were completed in 1916.
* PHRA THAT SATCHA STUPA
Phra That Satcha literally means the temple of truthful pledge.
One year following the collapse of the Phra That Phanom in Nakhon Phanom, considered to be the most revered Buddhist stupa in Northeastern Thailand, this 33-metre high stupa was constructed on a large rocky foundation.
Modelled after the original Phra That Phanom, the Phra That Satcha was constructed to continue the religious symbolism represented by the original stupa in Nakhon Phanom. This helped to heal the sense of loss following the tragic collapse of the original stupa and re-proclaimed the pledge to preserve Buddhism in the region.
Relics of the Lord Buddha and his followers and soil from the original Phra That Phanom were consecrated within the new stupa. A gilded Buddha's footprint is housed within the stupa
***********************************************************************************
2.Thailand Tourism Festival
Date : June 2010
Venue : 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
***********************************************************************************
3.Hua Hin Jazz Festival
Date : 12 - 14 June 2010
Venue : Hua Hin Beach, Prachuap Khiri Khan
Music lovers flock to Hua Hin. Annual jazz festival draws top bands from region.
Music lovers, from Bangkok and neighbouring countries keep their calendars free, mid-June, so they can head south from Bangkok down Highway 4 to the small upscale resort of Hua Hin where they can enjoy a music festival that delivers the best jazz and blue bands from around Asia.
The 8th Hua Hin Jazz Festival will be held, 12 to 14 June, at two sites at Hua Hin, 200 km south of Bangkok, in Prachuab Khiri Khan Province. Entrance to all performances is free.
Hua Hin has been associated with the country’s jazz community since the 1950s and the jazz festival is organised annually in honour of the musical talents of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej.
Organisers also point out that the event celebrates the occasion of Hua Hin’s 100th anniversary.
The festival draws on the inspiration of HM the King, who has penned a host of jazz compositions and is a fine saxophone player in his own right. Hua Hin is also an important base from where HM King has initiated rural projects over the years that promote village economies in nearby provinces. Therefore, the town is justly proud of its royal heritage, second only to the Thai capital, Bangkok. A seaside location and its variety of accommodation, across all categories, help to make it an ideal venue to host a music festival
The International jazz scene will be represented by three bands – Shakatak from the UK, Malene Mortensen, Denmark and Popsanova, Brazil.
Out of Asia the audience can enjoy the music of Noon a famous band from Japan, Estrella from Malaysia and the ever popular Brass Monkeys from the Philippines.
More than 15 Thai jazz bands are booked to perform including, Infinity, Bangkok Connection, Gail Dila and Mellow Motif.
Bands will perform on three stages on the beach and at Phonkingphet Public Park in the town centre. Performances during the three-day festival are free and continue from 1530 until midnight.
The event is managed by Plus 5 Company and Fatima Broadcasting International Company on behalf of provincial offices and the Tourism Authority of Thailand.
Contact :
TAT Call Center 1672
TAT Phetchaburi Office, Tel : 66 (0) 3247 1005-6
***********************************************************************************
4.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 http://www.a-plusgroup.com/
**********************************************************************************
5.Amazing Thailand Grand Sale 2009
Date : 1 June to 31 August 2009
Venue : Department stores, hotels, restaurants, and tourist attraction nationwide
Thailand’s annual “Amazing Thailand Grand Sale” got underway this month and continues to offer visitors great bargains right through to 31 August.
This year, as fuel prices escalate, both visitors and residents are looking for more value and bigger discounts when they are shopping. Thailand never disappoints.
Most mega stores and shopping malls are offering discounts of between 10 to 70%, so there are bargains galore for the shopper prepared to browse around the stores.
Fortunately, most of Bangkok’s major shopping malls and stores are located close to the city’s skytrain or metro transport systems, making it very convenient to hop from one store to the next.
Both the Skytrain and the Metro, offer day use stored-value cards for visitors to make it even more convenient to use the two systems.
Bangkok’s main shopping districts and streets are to be found along Ploenchit and Sukhumvit roads.
Many of the department stores have direct bridge linking them to Skytrain stations. Just a short walk from the Skytrain stations and visitors discover some pretty impressive department stores and shopping plazas namely Siam Discovery Centre, Siam Centre, Central World Plaza, Erawan Bangkok, Amarin Plaza, Gaysorn, Central Chidlom, Home Pro Plus, Robinson Department Store, The Emporium and The Mall Department Store.
Discounts are also available in King Power duty free shops, both at Suvarnabhumi Airport and downtown locations. There are even discount deals on luxury treatments at spas, a round of golf at a selection of courses at all major tourist destinations, travel packages and even medical check-ups at world-class hospitals.
The three-month campaign also embraces a variety of destinations beyond Bangkok such as Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Hua Hin, Cha-am, Pattaya, Nakhon Ratchasima, Udorn Thani, Phuket, Krabi, Hat Yai and Samui Island.
Grand Sale prizes are offered in conjunction with the campaign sponsor, Visa Card, and include bargain holiday packages to premier destinations such as Phuket and Samui.
Contact : Tourism Investment Department, Tourism Authority of Thailand
Tel : 66 (0) 2250 5500 ext. 2951
***********************************************************************************
6.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
Saturday, February 20, 2010
September On Trip
1.International Swan Boat Races
Photo from Thailand http://www.ubonmag.com/
Teams compete for prizes in the 21st annual swan boat races at the Bang Sai Royal Folk Arts and Craft Centre, 19 to 20 September.
Bang Sai Royal Folk Arts and Crafts Centre, Ayutthaya province, is worth visiting any time of the year, but it has a special fascination for visitors in September, when the riverside complex hosts the annual international swan boat races.
Now in its 21st year, the dates were changed this year to 19 to 20 September moving back a week from its usual mid-month slot. But it still promises to be a tough, contested, series of races with nine international teams, mainly from around Asia, vying for the annual trophy.
Teams that have already confirmed their attendance include Penang Municipal Park Club Malaysia, Singapore Barbarian A, Singapore Barbarian B, Philippines National Dragon Boat Team, China Nanhai Zhonalian Dragon Boat Team, Dragon Boat and Boat Racing Federation of India and Thailand A, B, and C squads. Two teams surviving the knock-out races will compete for the Prime Minister’s Cup on the final day.
So what’s the fascination for spectators who turn up in their thousands to enjoy the festive spirit and rivalry
For starters it is photogenic and amateur shutter bugs attend in the droves, determined to “catch the moment” in their fancy digital cameras equipped with enormous zoom lens.
Families dominate the spectator profile. They set out their mats on the banks of the river to enjoy a picnic lunch, or just lean back against the trunk of shady tree to watch the races.
They will witness the incredible enthusiasm and energy of the paddlers, who require considerable skill and teamwork to keep their boats stable enough to slice smoothly through the water at incredible speeds.
Swan boats defy the usual logic required to build race-fit craft. They are heavy and built to last. Their long, narrow, round-bottom hulls have high sweeping bows and sterns carved with the head and tail of a mythical swan.
There are actually two categories that can be seen at the races.
The traditional version’s hull is 29 metres long weighing 2268 kg and is often carved from a single trunk of a thakien tree. Manned by 50 paddlers and two helmsmen they are difficult to manoeuvre requiring exceptional navigational skills and team coordination to keep them on course.
International races use a modified version of the Swan boat, usually 15 metres long and powered by a team of 20 paddlers and a paddling helmsman, who uses a whistle to set the cadence rhythm, which can easily exceed 120 paddles a minute in the heat of a race.
The lighter craft weigh in at slightly over 900 kg. They usually race over a measured 650-metre course on rivers, but village races are often held on canals adjacent to temples.
Adding to the excitement, teams in the international races at Bang Sai face the swift flowing currents of the Chao Phaya River, in full flood.
Swan races are a traditional sport in Thailand and Southeast dating back 700 years. Youngsters race the boats during the rainy season on any available stretch of water in competitions that attract bigger crowds than seen at the country’s football matches.
Linked to the Buddhist lent, the races continue through late September to the full moon celebrations in early October, when the three-month lent comes to a close.
Enthusiasts in Asia would like to see this authentic Asian sport in the Olympic and Asian Games. Until that happy day arrives, visit Bang Sai to experience a traditional sport that requires team spirit, endurance and precision all of which guarantees unrivalled spectator appeal.
And for a bonus, hire a car and take the Michelin Map’s green scenic route that follows the Chao Phaya River, just a couple of kilometres up Highway 347 from the junction with the Rangsit- Pathum Thani highway. You can make a stop at Wat Phai Lom, a refuge for migratory storks and follow the minor road that weaves under Highway 9 and brings you to Bang Sai’s handcraft centre.
At the close of the races journey on for another 20 km to Ayutthaya to admire this World Heritage site in the evening as the temple and palace ruins are illuminated. It is also the classic route for weekend cyclists who turn out in their hundreds to enjoy these quiet lanes. There are three-star hotels and riverside restaurants in Ayutthaya making it an ideal stop on a tour northbound Thailand’s heritage towns.
Race highlights:
International Swan Boat Race: nine teams, each craft having 22 paddlers. The winning team will receive the Prime Minister’s Cup.
Thai Traditional Swan-boat Race: 12 teams, each with 55 paddlers. Paddlers come from various provinces around Thailand and compete for the Queen’s Cup.
Thai Traditional Swan-boat Race: 16 teams, each with 30 paddlers from four regions of Thailand, also competing for the Queen’s Cup.
Final rounds for each category will be contested 1600 to 1700, 20 September.
The 21st Thailand International Swan Boat Races will be held from 19 to 20 September at Bang Sai Royal Folk Arts and Crafts Centre, Ayutthaya province. Free admission. The event takes place from 0930 until 1700.
Contact :TAT Ayutthaya at 035 246 076 to 7
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2.Spotlight on Bangkok’s Film Festival
Curtain rises on the 7th Bangkok Film Festival, 24 to 30 September.
Now in its seventh year the curtain will rise on the annual Bangkok Film Festival, 24 to 30 September, in the heart of Bangkok’s downtown swank shopping district. The spectacular event promises to deliver more than 80 exciting films with the focus on a new generation of film makers particularly from throughout Asia.
The event is co-hosted by the Tourism Authority of Thailand and the Federation of National Film Associations of Thailand, with the gala opening set in the forecourt of the upscale Central World shopping mall.
The opening ceremony promises to be an extravagant affair reflecting classical art and Thai heritage, while the welcome dinner will be hosted near the Chao Phraya River to accentuate the city’s rich and historical ambience.
Other events and film showings will be at various venues including Paragon Cineplex, Siam Paragon Shopping Complex, SF World Cinema and Central World.
Thailand has for decades earned a reputation as superb location for shooting international movies. A Google search of movies shot on location, in part or whole, in the country confirms its popularity with over 700 examples. Its popularity as movie location has helped to ensure that the local film industry has also prospered and improved in quality.
This development is reflected in comments made recently to Hollywood’s foremost entertainment publication, Variety, which interviewed, Jareuk Kaljareuk, chairman of the Federation of National Film Associations of Thailand, who also acts as the festival director.
He said: "The Thai film industry has expanded both in its technological advances, its professional skills and its artistic development. It is ready to take its place as a leading member of the international filmmaking community."
Although still to be confirmed, the possible contenders for the Golden Kinnaree Awards, according to Variety, are: Canadian helmer Xavier Dolan's "I Killed My Mother," which won three out of four prizes at Cannes' Directors' Fortnight; Jacques Audiard's Cannes' Grand Prix winner "A Prophet"; Lukas Moodysson's thriller "Mammoth"; and "Burma VJ" by Danish documentary maker Anders Ostergaard.
The Golden Kinaree Awards will be held at Chatrium Suites, a Dusit Group hotel in Bangkok.
Popular action actor, Jean Claude Van Damme, will attend the festival. He is no stranger to Thailand having first visited the country to star in the movie, The Quest, shot on location at the Mountain Inn hotel in Mae Hong Son back in 1996. At this year’s film festival he will introduce his latest film “Until Death”.
Other international movie stars attending the event include Byung-Hun Lee, the Korean star who had a role in the blockbuster movie G.I. Joe and Armand Assante, well known for his action movies over the last two decades.
For more information, please visit http://www.bangkokfilm.org/
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3.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., every Central store
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 : http://www.central.co.th/
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4.Golf bargains galore
Tee of time at the annual Hua Hin/Cha-am Golf Festival.
It could be tagged the best golf offer in Asia and it is perfect timing as the bargains on the greens are now matched by superb discounts offered on air travel and accommodation.
Hua Hin and Cha-am, twin resorts on the west side of the Gulf of Thailand, annually host the Hua Hin/Cha-am Golf Festival that runs throughout August and September.
For golf enthusiasts it is pure magic. The option of playing eight competition level golf courses all within easy reach of the two resorts, at incredibly low green fees, is undeniably an offer too good to refuse.
Tourism Authority of Thailand’s offices in Phetchaburi and Prachuap Khiri Khan provinces, in co-operation with the Phetchaburi- Prachuap Khiri Khan Golf Course Association, host the annual event to support tourism and promote golfing, a valuable niche market that helps the resorts to generate substantial business during the traditional low-season.
Over the last three years, the festival has been fine-tuned to the point it is now recognised as a premier event for Asia’s golfing community.
The promotional offers include the opportunity to play golf at any of the eight selected golf courses, throughout August and September, for only Bt800 — without doubt the lowest green fees of the year.
The exception is Springfield Golf Course, which will increase its green fee for September.
There are also invitations to compete in organised tournaments every Sunday for just Bt1,200 (includes caddy fee and dinner), with lots of lucky prizes. The player achieving a hole-in-one at designated holes will win a car on the last day of the festival.
There are also prizes presented for the 'longest drive' contests and an opportunity to shop for specially-discounted golf products with 10 to 30% reduction on Pro Shop prices at all courses.
Of course, specialised golf travel firms are keen to tap the potential of this popular festival by offering “Golf Lovers” packages at the “heavenly seaside resorts of Hua Hin and Cha-am”.
Approximate prices for all-inclusive golf packages range from Bt11,000 for two nights’ accommodation, two rounds of golf and transfers. A five-night stay with four rounds of golf sells would cost approximately Bt19,000. Trips offered by travel companies can usually be confirmed and paid for online.
For detailed costs and hotel rate information contact the Tourism Authority of Thailand offices in Prachuap Khiri Khan, or Petchaburi provinces.
The following eight golf courses are participating in the festival :
Banyan Golf Club, Hua Hin
Tel +66 (0) 3261 6200; Fax +66 (0) 3261 6222;Email: Stacey@banyanestatehuahin.com
Imperial Lake View Hotel and Golf Club
Tel: +66 (0) 3245 6233 - 40
Fax: +66 (0) 3245 6244 ; E-mail: lakeview@imperialhotels.com
Springfield Village Golf and Spa
Tel: +66 (0) 3270 9222
Fax: +66 (0) 3270 9233 ;E-mail: playgolf@springfieldresort.com
Majestic Creek Golf and Resort
Tel: +66 (0) 3261 9168 - 70, (081) 942 3619
Fax: +66 (0) 3260 2784
Sawang Resort and Golf Club
Tel: +66 (0) 3256 2555 - 7
Fax: +66 (0) 3256 2558
Palm Hills Golf Resort and Country club
Tel: +66 (0) 3244 2460 - 1, (0) 3252 0801 - 9
Fax: +66 (0) 3244 2463 ; E-mail: sales_huahin@palmhills-golf.com
Kaeng Krachan Golf and Country Club
Tel: +66 (0) 3242 2145
Fax: +66 (0) 3242 2146 ;E-mail: info@kkcgolf.com
Royal Hua Hin Golf Golf Course
Tel: +66 (0) 3251 2475, (0) 3253 1070
Fax: +66 (0) 3251 3038 ;E-mail: royal_golf@hotmail.com
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5.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 http://www.active-asia.com/
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6.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
Tags : Buffalo RacingBuffalo Racing
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7.The 10th Lunar Month Making Merit
Date : 5 - 19 September 2009
Venue : Wat Phra Mahathat Woramahawihan and Suan Somdej Phra Sinagarindra 84
(Thung Tha Lat Park), Amphoe Mueang, Nakhon Si Thammarat
Features a large and splendorous event of Nakhon Si Thammarat, experience the spectacular procession from Sanam Na Mueang to Wat Phra Mahathat Woramahawihan. Purchase various local products on sale and enjoy various forms of entertainment.
For further information, please contact:
TAT Nakhon Si Thammarat Office Tel. 66 (0) 7534 6515-6
Tags : Lunar Month making merit, Lunar Month, making merit, Nakhon Si Thammarat
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8.Thailand International Swan Boat Races 2009
Date : 19 - 20 September 2009
Venue : On the Chao Phraya River, in front of the Bang Sai Royal Folk Arts and Crafts Centre,
Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya
Event :
Enjoy the boat races and activities
Live broadcast via www.tourismthailand.org
International Swan Boat Race (22 paddlers)
Traditional Thai Long Boat Races (30 and 55 paddlers)
Purchase the Thai handicrafts and souvenirs.
Make a big splash with tourists and visitors alike.
Contact:
- Events Planning Division, Tourism Authority of Thailand,
Tel. : 66 (0) 2250 5500 Ext : 3475-77
- TAT CALL CENTER 1672
- TAT Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Tel : 66 (0) 3524 6076-7
Tags: Chao Phraya River, Thai Traditional Long Boat Races
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9.Bathing Buddha Ceremony
Date : 17 - 21 September 2009
Venue : Phetchabun City Hall, in front of Traipoom Temple and Botchanamarn Temple
A Bathing Buddha, or Um Phra Dam Nam ceremony, is held during September each year. It is a traditional religious and well known ritual held annually in Phetchabun.
Buddha statue, called Phra Buddha Mahadhamaracha cast in the ornamental Lop Buri style, was found in the Pasak River by a group of farmers four hundred years ago and it was then taken to be housed in Wat Trai Phum. According to a legend, the Buddha statue was disappeared twice from the temple and was later found in water.
The ceremony starts at 1 p.m. The Buddha statue is carried around town and put under a tent in Wat Trai Phum, so buddhists can pay respect to the image and stick gold leaf on the body of the Buddha statue. In the evening, prayers are chanted. At night, there are various kinds of entertainment. The next morning, people make merit as it is Sat Thai Day. Foods, including Krayasat and other necessities are given to monks. The Buddha statue is then taken to be immersed in the Pasak River by the local governor of Phetchabun in the belief that this act brings happiness and fertility to the province and traditional dances are performed to show respect to the Buddha statue.
After the ceremony, the water in the river is regarded as sacred. As a result, people swim in it or take the water to drink before the boat racing begins.
For More Information Please contact :
Phetchabun’s Public Relations Center, Tel. +66 (0) 5672 1733
TAT Phitsanulok Office, Tel. +66 (0) 5525 2742-3
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10.The Illuminated Boat Procession
Date : 29 September – 15 Octorber 2009
Venue : Mekong River, Mueang District, Nakhon Phanom
This festival was originally aimed at payings respect to the Lord Buddha. Then the competition of the illuminated boat processions was organised to add colour to the event. An invitation is delivered to the public and private sectors, including temples,to participate in the competition. The illuminated boats lined up in the middle of the Mekong River create an impressive scene for viewers.
Contact :
- TAT Nakhon Phanom, Tel. : 66 (0) 4251 3490-1
- Nakhon Phanom Provincial Administration Office,
Tel. : 66 (0) 4251 1287, 66 (0) 4251 1574
Website : http://www.tourismthailand.org/; E-mail : tatphnom@tat.or.th
Tags:Boat Procession, The Illuminated Boat Procession
Photo from Thailand http://www.ubonmag.com/
Teams compete for prizes in the 21st annual swan boat races at the Bang Sai Royal Folk Arts and Craft Centre, 19 to 20 September.
Bang Sai Royal Folk Arts and Crafts Centre, Ayutthaya province, is worth visiting any time of the year, but it has a special fascination for visitors in September, when the riverside complex hosts the annual international swan boat races.
Now in its 21st year, the dates were changed this year to 19 to 20 September moving back a week from its usual mid-month slot. But it still promises to be a tough, contested, series of races with nine international teams, mainly from around Asia, vying for the annual trophy.
Teams that have already confirmed their attendance include Penang Municipal Park Club Malaysia, Singapore Barbarian A, Singapore Barbarian B, Philippines National Dragon Boat Team, China Nanhai Zhonalian Dragon Boat Team, Dragon Boat and Boat Racing Federation of India and Thailand A, B, and C squads. Two teams surviving the knock-out races will compete for the Prime Minister’s Cup on the final day.
So what’s the fascination for spectators who turn up in their thousands to enjoy the festive spirit and rivalry
For starters it is photogenic and amateur shutter bugs attend in the droves, determined to “catch the moment” in their fancy digital cameras equipped with enormous zoom lens.
Families dominate the spectator profile. They set out their mats on the banks of the river to enjoy a picnic lunch, or just lean back against the trunk of shady tree to watch the races.
They will witness the incredible enthusiasm and energy of the paddlers, who require considerable skill and teamwork to keep their boats stable enough to slice smoothly through the water at incredible speeds.
Swan boats defy the usual logic required to build race-fit craft. They are heavy and built to last. Their long, narrow, round-bottom hulls have high sweeping bows and sterns carved with the head and tail of a mythical swan.
There are actually two categories that can be seen at the races.
The traditional version’s hull is 29 metres long weighing 2268 kg and is often carved from a single trunk of a thakien tree. Manned by 50 paddlers and two helmsmen they are difficult to manoeuvre requiring exceptional navigational skills and team coordination to keep them on course.
International races use a modified version of the Swan boat, usually 15 metres long and powered by a team of 20 paddlers and a paddling helmsman, who uses a whistle to set the cadence rhythm, which can easily exceed 120 paddles a minute in the heat of a race.
The lighter craft weigh in at slightly over 900 kg. They usually race over a measured 650-metre course on rivers, but village races are often held on canals adjacent to temples.
Adding to the excitement, teams in the international races at Bang Sai face the swift flowing currents of the Chao Phaya River, in full flood.
Swan races are a traditional sport in Thailand and Southeast dating back 700 years. Youngsters race the boats during the rainy season on any available stretch of water in competitions that attract bigger crowds than seen at the country’s football matches.
Linked to the Buddhist lent, the races continue through late September to the full moon celebrations in early October, when the three-month lent comes to a close.
Enthusiasts in Asia would like to see this authentic Asian sport in the Olympic and Asian Games. Until that happy day arrives, visit Bang Sai to experience a traditional sport that requires team spirit, endurance and precision all of which guarantees unrivalled spectator appeal.
And for a bonus, hire a car and take the Michelin Map’s green scenic route that follows the Chao Phaya River, just a couple of kilometres up Highway 347 from the junction with the Rangsit- Pathum Thani highway. You can make a stop at Wat Phai Lom, a refuge for migratory storks and follow the minor road that weaves under Highway 9 and brings you to Bang Sai’s handcraft centre.
At the close of the races journey on for another 20 km to Ayutthaya to admire this World Heritage site in the evening as the temple and palace ruins are illuminated. It is also the classic route for weekend cyclists who turn out in their hundreds to enjoy these quiet lanes. There are three-star hotels and riverside restaurants in Ayutthaya making it an ideal stop on a tour northbound Thailand’s heritage towns.
Race highlights:
International Swan Boat Race: nine teams, each craft having 22 paddlers. The winning team will receive the Prime Minister’s Cup.
Thai Traditional Swan-boat Race: 12 teams, each with 55 paddlers. Paddlers come from various provinces around Thailand and compete for the Queen’s Cup.
Thai Traditional Swan-boat Race: 16 teams, each with 30 paddlers from four regions of Thailand, also competing for the Queen’s Cup.
Final rounds for each category will be contested 1600 to 1700, 20 September.
The 21st Thailand International Swan Boat Races will be held from 19 to 20 September at Bang Sai Royal Folk Arts and Crafts Centre, Ayutthaya province. Free admission. The event takes place from 0930 until 1700.
Contact :TAT Ayutthaya at 035 246 076 to 7
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2.Spotlight on Bangkok’s Film Festival
Curtain rises on the 7th Bangkok Film Festival, 24 to 30 September.
Now in its seventh year the curtain will rise on the annual Bangkok Film Festival, 24 to 30 September, in the heart of Bangkok’s downtown swank shopping district. The spectacular event promises to deliver more than 80 exciting films with the focus on a new generation of film makers particularly from throughout Asia.
The event is co-hosted by the Tourism Authority of Thailand and the Federation of National Film Associations of Thailand, with the gala opening set in the forecourt of the upscale Central World shopping mall.
The opening ceremony promises to be an extravagant affair reflecting classical art and Thai heritage, while the welcome dinner will be hosted near the Chao Phraya River to accentuate the city’s rich and historical ambience.
Other events and film showings will be at various venues including Paragon Cineplex, Siam Paragon Shopping Complex, SF World Cinema and Central World.
Thailand has for decades earned a reputation as superb location for shooting international movies. A Google search of movies shot on location, in part or whole, in the country confirms its popularity with over 700 examples. Its popularity as movie location has helped to ensure that the local film industry has also prospered and improved in quality.
This development is reflected in comments made recently to Hollywood’s foremost entertainment publication, Variety, which interviewed, Jareuk Kaljareuk, chairman of the Federation of National Film Associations of Thailand, who also acts as the festival director.
He said: "The Thai film industry has expanded both in its technological advances, its professional skills and its artistic development. It is ready to take its place as a leading member of the international filmmaking community."
Although still to be confirmed, the possible contenders for the Golden Kinnaree Awards, according to Variety, are: Canadian helmer Xavier Dolan's "I Killed My Mother," which won three out of four prizes at Cannes' Directors' Fortnight; Jacques Audiard's Cannes' Grand Prix winner "A Prophet"; Lukas Moodysson's thriller "Mammoth"; and "Burma VJ" by Danish documentary maker Anders Ostergaard.
The Golden Kinaree Awards will be held at Chatrium Suites, a Dusit Group hotel in Bangkok.
Popular action actor, Jean Claude Van Damme, will attend the festival. He is no stranger to Thailand having first visited the country to star in the movie, The Quest, shot on location at the Mountain Inn hotel in Mae Hong Son back in 1996. At this year’s film festival he will introduce his latest film “Until Death”.
Other international movie stars attending the event include Byung-Hun Lee, the Korean star who had a role in the blockbuster movie G.I. Joe and Armand Assante, well known for his action movies over the last two decades.
For more information, please visit http://www.bangkokfilm.org/
**********************************************************************************
3.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., every Central store
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 : http://www.central.co.th/
************************************************************************************
4.Golf bargains galore
Tee of time at the annual Hua Hin/Cha-am Golf Festival.
It could be tagged the best golf offer in Asia and it is perfect timing as the bargains on the greens are now matched by superb discounts offered on air travel and accommodation.
Hua Hin and Cha-am, twin resorts on the west side of the Gulf of Thailand, annually host the Hua Hin/Cha-am Golf Festival that runs throughout August and September.
For golf enthusiasts it is pure magic. The option of playing eight competition level golf courses all within easy reach of the two resorts, at incredibly low green fees, is undeniably an offer too good to refuse.
Tourism Authority of Thailand’s offices in Phetchaburi and Prachuap Khiri Khan provinces, in co-operation with the Phetchaburi- Prachuap Khiri Khan Golf Course Association, host the annual event to support tourism and promote golfing, a valuable niche market that helps the resorts to generate substantial business during the traditional low-season.
Over the last three years, the festival has been fine-tuned to the point it is now recognised as a premier event for Asia’s golfing community.
The promotional offers include the opportunity to play golf at any of the eight selected golf courses, throughout August and September, for only Bt800 — without doubt the lowest green fees of the year.
The exception is Springfield Golf Course, which will increase its green fee for September.
There are also invitations to compete in organised tournaments every Sunday for just Bt1,200 (includes caddy fee and dinner), with lots of lucky prizes. The player achieving a hole-in-one at designated holes will win a car on the last day of the festival.
There are also prizes presented for the 'longest drive' contests and an opportunity to shop for specially-discounted golf products with 10 to 30% reduction on Pro Shop prices at all courses.
Of course, specialised golf travel firms are keen to tap the potential of this popular festival by offering “Golf Lovers” packages at the “heavenly seaside resorts of Hua Hin and Cha-am”.
Approximate prices for all-inclusive golf packages range from Bt11,000 for two nights’ accommodation, two rounds of golf and transfers. A five-night stay with four rounds of golf sells would cost approximately Bt19,000. Trips offered by travel companies can usually be confirmed and paid for online.
For detailed costs and hotel rate information contact the Tourism Authority of Thailand offices in Prachuap Khiri Khan, or Petchaburi provinces.
The following eight golf courses are participating in the festival :
Banyan Golf Club, Hua Hin
Tel +66 (0) 3261 6200; Fax +66 (0) 3261 6222;Email: Stacey@banyanestatehuahin.com
Imperial Lake View Hotel and Golf Club
Tel: +66 (0) 3245 6233 - 40
Fax: +66 (0) 3245 6244 ; E-mail: lakeview@imperialhotels.com
Springfield Village Golf and Spa
Tel: +66 (0) 3270 9222
Fax: +66 (0) 3270 9233 ;E-mail: playgolf@springfieldresort.com
Majestic Creek Golf and Resort
Tel: +66 (0) 3261 9168 - 70, (081) 942 3619
Fax: +66 (0) 3260 2784
Sawang Resort and Golf Club
Tel: +66 (0) 3256 2555 - 7
Fax: +66 (0) 3256 2558
Palm Hills Golf Resort and Country club
Tel: +66 (0) 3244 2460 - 1, (0) 3252 0801 - 9
Fax: +66 (0) 3244 2463 ; E-mail: sales_huahin@palmhills-golf.com
Kaeng Krachan Golf and Country Club
Tel: +66 (0) 3242 2145
Fax: +66 (0) 3242 2146 ;E-mail: info@kkcgolf.com
Royal Hua Hin Golf Golf Course
Tel: +66 (0) 3251 2475, (0) 3253 1070
Fax: +66 (0) 3251 3038 ;E-mail: royal_golf@hotmail.com
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5.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 http://www.active-asia.com/
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6.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
Tags : Buffalo RacingBuffalo Racing
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7.The 10th Lunar Month Making Merit
Date : 5 - 19 September 2009
Venue : Wat Phra Mahathat Woramahawihan and Suan Somdej Phra Sinagarindra 84
(Thung Tha Lat Park), Amphoe Mueang, Nakhon Si Thammarat
Features a large and splendorous event of Nakhon Si Thammarat, experience the spectacular procession from Sanam Na Mueang to Wat Phra Mahathat Woramahawihan. Purchase various local products on sale and enjoy various forms of entertainment.
For further information, please contact:
TAT Nakhon Si Thammarat Office Tel. 66 (0) 7534 6515-6
Tags : Lunar Month making merit, Lunar Month, making merit, Nakhon Si Thammarat
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8.Thailand International Swan Boat Races 2009
Date : 19 - 20 September 2009
Venue : On the Chao Phraya River, in front of the Bang Sai Royal Folk Arts and Crafts Centre,
Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya
Event :
Enjoy the boat races and activities
Live broadcast via www.tourismthailand.org
International Swan Boat Race (22 paddlers)
Traditional Thai Long Boat Races (30 and 55 paddlers)
Purchase the Thai handicrafts and souvenirs.
Make a big splash with tourists and visitors alike.
Contact:
- Events Planning Division, Tourism Authority of Thailand,
Tel. : 66 (0) 2250 5500 Ext : 3475-77
- TAT CALL CENTER 1672
- TAT Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Tel : 66 (0) 3524 6076-7
Tags: Chao Phraya River, Thai Traditional Long Boat Races
************************************************************************************
9.Bathing Buddha Ceremony
Date : 17 - 21 September 2009
Venue : Phetchabun City Hall, in front of Traipoom Temple and Botchanamarn Temple
A Bathing Buddha, or Um Phra Dam Nam ceremony, is held during September each year. It is a traditional religious and well known ritual held annually in Phetchabun.
Buddha statue, called Phra Buddha Mahadhamaracha cast in the ornamental Lop Buri style, was found in the Pasak River by a group of farmers four hundred years ago and it was then taken to be housed in Wat Trai Phum. According to a legend, the Buddha statue was disappeared twice from the temple and was later found in water.
The ceremony starts at 1 p.m. The Buddha statue is carried around town and put under a tent in Wat Trai Phum, so buddhists can pay respect to the image and stick gold leaf on the body of the Buddha statue. In the evening, prayers are chanted. At night, there are various kinds of entertainment. The next morning, people make merit as it is Sat Thai Day. Foods, including Krayasat and other necessities are given to monks. The Buddha statue is then taken to be immersed in the Pasak River by the local governor of Phetchabun in the belief that this act brings happiness and fertility to the province and traditional dances are performed to show respect to the Buddha statue.
After the ceremony, the water in the river is regarded as sacred. As a result, people swim in it or take the water to drink before the boat racing begins.
For More Information Please contact :
Phetchabun’s Public Relations Center, Tel. +66 (0) 5672 1733
TAT Phitsanulok Office, Tel. +66 (0) 5525 2742-3
***********************************************************************************
10.The Illuminated Boat Procession
Date : 29 September – 15 Octorber 2009
Venue : Mekong River, Mueang District, Nakhon Phanom
This festival was originally aimed at payings respect to the Lord Buddha. Then the competition of the illuminated boat processions was organised to add colour to the event. An invitation is delivered to the public and private sectors, including temples,to participate in the competition. The illuminated boats lined up in the middle of the Mekong River create an impressive scene for viewers.
Contact :
- TAT Nakhon Phanom, Tel. : 66 (0) 4251 3490-1
- Nakhon Phanom Provincial Administration Office,
Tel. : 66 (0) 4251 1287, 66 (0) 4251 1574
Website : http://www.tourismthailand.org/; E-mail : tatphnom@tat.or.th
Tags:Boat Procession, The Illuminated Boat Procession
October On Trip
1.Land of Smiles Classic
Photo from Thailand http://www.ubonmag.com/
Since the 1990s expatriate ice hockey players living in Bangkok have imported the sport they love. While Thailand's scorching temperatures and a game played on ice may seem a peculiar fit, ice hockey has grown immensely popular in the Kingdom. The "Land of Smiles Classic" tournament draws as many as 30 teams from 15 countries each year, and its popularity led to the launch of the “City of Angels Cup” to satisfy the demand of hockey players in Asia. Both tournaments continue to bring important tourism revenue into the Kingdom. The Thai-World Hockey League (TWHL) enters its seventh successful season in 2009-10 with more than 60 players, one-third of who are Thai nationals. The Thai National Team, meanwhile, travels the world to compete in international competitions and has impressed with their skill and speed. The rough-and-tumble winter sport of ice hockey has, ironically, found a home in the balmy Land of Smiles.
The coolest sport on Earth takes center stage in Bangkok Oct. 28-31 as hundreds of ice hockey players from around the world square off in the "Land of Smiles Classic" tournament. Twenty-five teams from 15 countries take to the ice at Imperial Samrong Mall 5th Floor in Asia's biggest ice hockey extravaganza. High-flying, hard-hitting action has enthralled spectators in the Thai capital for 15 years. The tournament continues to bring important tourism revenue into the Kingdom, while raising hundreds of thousands of baht for impoverished children. The rough-and-tumble winter sport of ice hockey has, ironically, found a home in the balmy Land of Smiles.
Schedule for the Event
Wednesday, October 28th / 9.00 am – midnight
Thursday, October 29th /7.30 am – midnight
Friday, October 30th /7.30 am – midnight
Saturday, October 31th /7.30 am – 6.30 pm
2.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.
***********************************************************************************
3.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
***********************************************************************************
4.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 : http://www.tourismthailand.org/ ; E-mail : tatudon@tat.or.th
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5.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
Tags : tak bat devo, tak bat tevo, Ok Phansa Day, buddha lent
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6.Phuket Vegetarian Festival
Date : 17 – 26 October 2009
Venue : Various Chinese shrines, Mueang District, Phuket
This famous festival is held from 17 to 26 October, at various Chinese temples and shrines in Phuket town.
No one is quite sure about the origins of the Phuket Vegetarian Festival, but historians reckon it was started by the Chinese community about 150 years ago. One matter is beyond doubt it is one of the most spectacular of all the vegetarian festivals held in Thailand.
The nine-day festival runs from 17 to 26 October and its roots are firmly embedded in the Chinese community's belief that abstinence from meat and various stimulants during the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar is good for body and soul.
Apart from adhering to a strict vegetarian, diet those who join the festival make offerings to the Nine Emperor Gods to to secure a year of health.
Always held on the first days of the ninth Chinese lunar month, and for nine days it exerts a serious commitment from those who participate.
They use the festival to gain cleanliness of the body through a vegetarian diet, dressing in white and abstaining from all pleasures including the consumption of alcohol and sex.
Crowds are attracted to the Phuket festival because it continues to display traditional practices that have largely disappeared in cities where the Chinese communities embrace a vegetarian diet, but little else of the ancient customs.
In Phuket town, visitors watch in awe at fire walking, body piercing and other acts of self mortification, some of the feats quite scary.
Men and women puncture their cheeks with various sharp objects, believing the Chinese gods will protect them from harm. This festival is not for the feint hearted.
There are six Chinese temples in Phuket town, but the main site is the Jui Tui Shrine, not far from the fresh food market. The traditional raising of a 10-metre high lantern pole signals the start of the festival. Celebrants believe that the Hindu god, Shiva, descends bringing spiritual power to the venue.
Apart from the spectacular and sometimes shocking displays of self mortification, there are handy escape routes to the roadside food stalls laden with an astonishing variety of vegetarian dishes.
At a glance they look like chicken or red meat dishes, such is the art of vegetarian cooking these days. Well worth a visit while on holiday in Phuket.
Contact:
TAT Phuket, Tel : 66 (0) 7621 1036, 66 (0) 7621 2213
Website : www.tourismthailand.org
Tags : Vegetarian Festival, Phuket
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7.Loi Krathong and Candle Festival
Date : 31 October - 2 November 2009
Venue : Sukhothai Historical Park, Sukhothai
Highlights:
You 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 general public, including hanging lanterns, Krathong design contest, and Miss Noppamas Beauty Contest, light and sound presentation, firework displays, Sukhothai arts and culture performances, and the activity of “Dawn of happiness”.
Contact:
TAT Sukhothai Tel: 66 (0) 5561 1196
Website : http://www.loikrathong.net/ ; http://www.tourismthailand.org/
Tags : Loi Krathong, Sukhothai, Candle Festival
***********************************************************************************
8.Yi Peng Festival
Date : 27 October - 2 November 2009
Venue : Tha Phae Gate, banks of Ping River, Chiang Mai Municipal Office, Chiang Mai
HIghlights :
An amazing procession of hanging lanterns, Krathong design contest, Miss Yi Peng beauty contest, light and sound presentation in Ping River, the ancient Thai Lanna Krathong activities, local cultural performances, and local handicrafts market in Lanna style.
Contact :
TAT Chiang Mai, Tel : 66 (0) 5324 8604, 66 (0) 5324 8607
Website : www.loikrathong.net ; http://www.tourismthailand.org/
http://www.tatchiangmai.org/ ; E-mail : tatchiangmai@tat.or.th
Tags : Yi Peng, Chiang Mai, Chiang Mai Yi Peng FestivalYi Peng, Chiang Mai, Chiang Mai Yi Peng Festival
***********************************************************************************
9.The Illuminated Boat Procession
Date : 29 September – 15 Octorber 2009
Venue : Mekong River, Mueang District, Nakhon Phanom
This festival was originally aimed at payings respect to the Lord Buddha. Then the competition of the illuminated boat processions was organised to add colour to the event. An invitation is delivered to the public and private sectors, including temples,to participate in the competition. The illuminated boats lined up in the middle of the Mekong River create an impressive scene for viewers.
Contact :
TAT Nakhon Phanom, Tel. : 66 (0) 4251 3490-1
Nakhon Phanom Provincial Administration Office,
Tel. : 66 (0) 4251 1287, 66 (0) 4251 1574
Website : http://www.tourismthailand.org/ ; E-mail : tatphnom@tat.or.th
Tags : Boat Procession, The Illuminated Boat Procession
***********************************************************************************
Photo from Thailand http://www.ubonmag.com/
Since the 1990s expatriate ice hockey players living in Bangkok have imported the sport they love. While Thailand's scorching temperatures and a game played on ice may seem a peculiar fit, ice hockey has grown immensely popular in the Kingdom. The "Land of Smiles Classic" tournament draws as many as 30 teams from 15 countries each year, and its popularity led to the launch of the “City of Angels Cup” to satisfy the demand of hockey players in Asia. Both tournaments continue to bring important tourism revenue into the Kingdom. The Thai-World Hockey League (TWHL) enters its seventh successful season in 2009-10 with more than 60 players, one-third of who are Thai nationals. The Thai National Team, meanwhile, travels the world to compete in international competitions and has impressed with their skill and speed. The rough-and-tumble winter sport of ice hockey has, ironically, found a home in the balmy Land of Smiles.
The coolest sport on Earth takes center stage in Bangkok Oct. 28-31 as hundreds of ice hockey players from around the world square off in the "Land of Smiles Classic" tournament. Twenty-five teams from 15 countries take to the ice at Imperial Samrong Mall 5th Floor in Asia's biggest ice hockey extravaganza. High-flying, hard-hitting action has enthralled spectators in the Thai capital for 15 years. The tournament continues to bring important tourism revenue into the Kingdom, while raising hundreds of thousands of baht for impoverished children. The rough-and-tumble winter sport of ice hockey has, ironically, found a home in the balmy Land of Smiles.
Schedule for the Event
Wednesday, October 28th / 9.00 am – midnight
Thursday, October 29th /7.30 am – midnight
Friday, October 30th /7.30 am – midnight
Saturday, October 31th /7.30 am – 6.30 pm
2.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.
***********************************************************************************
3.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
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4.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 : http://www.tourismthailand.org/ ; E-mail : tatudon@tat.or.th
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5.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
Tags : tak bat devo, tak bat tevo, Ok Phansa Day, buddha lent
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6.Phuket Vegetarian Festival
Date : 17 – 26 October 2009
Venue : Various Chinese shrines, Mueang District, Phuket
This famous festival is held from 17 to 26 October, at various Chinese temples and shrines in Phuket town.
No one is quite sure about the origins of the Phuket Vegetarian Festival, but historians reckon it was started by the Chinese community about 150 years ago. One matter is beyond doubt it is one of the most spectacular of all the vegetarian festivals held in Thailand.
The nine-day festival runs from 17 to 26 October and its roots are firmly embedded in the Chinese community's belief that abstinence from meat and various stimulants during the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar is good for body and soul.
Apart from adhering to a strict vegetarian, diet those who join the festival make offerings to the Nine Emperor Gods to to secure a year of health.
Always held on the first days of the ninth Chinese lunar month, and for nine days it exerts a serious commitment from those who participate.
They use the festival to gain cleanliness of the body through a vegetarian diet, dressing in white and abstaining from all pleasures including the consumption of alcohol and sex.
Crowds are attracted to the Phuket festival because it continues to display traditional practices that have largely disappeared in cities where the Chinese communities embrace a vegetarian diet, but little else of the ancient customs.
In Phuket town, visitors watch in awe at fire walking, body piercing and other acts of self mortification, some of the feats quite scary.
Men and women puncture their cheeks with various sharp objects, believing the Chinese gods will protect them from harm. This festival is not for the feint hearted.
There are six Chinese temples in Phuket town, but the main site is the Jui Tui Shrine, not far from the fresh food market. The traditional raising of a 10-metre high lantern pole signals the start of the festival. Celebrants believe that the Hindu god, Shiva, descends bringing spiritual power to the venue.
Apart from the spectacular and sometimes shocking displays of self mortification, there are handy escape routes to the roadside food stalls laden with an astonishing variety of vegetarian dishes.
At a glance they look like chicken or red meat dishes, such is the art of vegetarian cooking these days. Well worth a visit while on holiday in Phuket.
Contact:
TAT Phuket, Tel : 66 (0) 7621 1036, 66 (0) 7621 2213
Website : www.tourismthailand.org
Tags : Vegetarian Festival, Phuket
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7.Loi Krathong and Candle Festival
Date : 31 October - 2 November 2009
Venue : Sukhothai Historical Park, Sukhothai
Highlights:
You 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 general public, including hanging lanterns, Krathong design contest, and Miss Noppamas Beauty Contest, light and sound presentation, firework displays, Sukhothai arts and culture performances, and the activity of “Dawn of happiness”.
Contact:
TAT Sukhothai Tel: 66 (0) 5561 1196
Website : http://www.loikrathong.net/ ; http://www.tourismthailand.org/
Tags : Loi Krathong, Sukhothai, Candle Festival
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8.Yi Peng Festival
Date : 27 October - 2 November 2009
Venue : Tha Phae Gate, banks of Ping River, Chiang Mai Municipal Office, Chiang Mai
HIghlights :
An amazing procession of hanging lanterns, Krathong design contest, Miss Yi Peng beauty contest, light and sound presentation in Ping River, the ancient Thai Lanna Krathong activities, local cultural performances, and local handicrafts market in Lanna style.
Contact :
TAT Chiang Mai, Tel : 66 (0) 5324 8604, 66 (0) 5324 8607
Website : www.loikrathong.net ; http://www.tourismthailand.org/
http://www.tatchiangmai.org/ ; E-mail : tatchiangmai@tat.or.th
Tags : Yi Peng, Chiang Mai, Chiang Mai Yi Peng FestivalYi Peng, Chiang Mai, Chiang Mai Yi Peng Festival
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9.The Illuminated Boat Procession
Date : 29 September – 15 Octorber 2009
Venue : Mekong River, Mueang District, Nakhon Phanom
This festival was originally aimed at payings respect to the Lord Buddha. Then the competition of the illuminated boat processions was organised to add colour to the event. An invitation is delivered to the public and private sectors, including temples,to participate in the competition. The illuminated boats lined up in the middle of the Mekong River create an impressive scene for viewers.
Contact :
TAT Nakhon Phanom, Tel. : 66 (0) 4251 3490-1
Nakhon Phanom Provincial Administration Office,
Tel. : 66 (0) 4251 1287, 66 (0) 4251 1574
Website : http://www.tourismthailand.org/ ; E-mail : tatphnom@tat.or.th
Tags : Boat Procession, The Illuminated Boat Procession
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