2009-11-19

The 21st Monkey Party, 29 November, at Phra Prang Sam Yod, Mueang district, Lopburi province.

The 21st Monkey Party
Party tricks courtesy of Lopburi’s monkeys
The 21st Monkey Party, 29 November, at Phra Prang Sam Yod, Mueang district, Lopburi province.
This is perhaps the most comical event you could witness on holiday, a claim that can be attested by the video clips that have found a place to park even on You Tube. A local businessman started this bizarre grand bash in the small historical town of Lopburi that stands on the northern rail line, about 150 km from Bangkok.
He was concerned about the welfare of the town’s monkey population residing in one of town’s historical pagodas. But he was also wondering why this town that played a prominent role in the country’s history in the 17th century is largely ignored by international tourists.
So he set about organising a grand party for the monkeys that roam freely around the town’s historical centre near the railway station. Of course, the monkeys take the buffet spread in their stride feasting with great relish on the finest Chinese cuisine the town can provide, all under the spotlight of TV channel crews, who run in circles trying to gain the best angle possible.
They have to be quick. Monkeys are not well known for table etiquette and despite the fact that this annual party is now in its 10th year, they haven’t learned any manners at all.
It is all part of the local’s community scheme to get some attention for a “living museum” town centre, where visitors can visit former palaces and buildings that were once used by one of the country’s revered monarchs during the golden Ayutthaya period.
Although the city dates back 1,000 years or more, to when it was simply called Lavo, it is best known as Thailand’s second capital. In 1666, King Narai, the Great, built a summer palace and resided in the town for around eight months of the year. It was here that the King granted an audience to the French Ambassador as well as other foreign dignitaries who travelled by boat up the Lop Buri River from Ayutthaya, the formal seat of government. Including temples and government administration buildings, the palace was used until the King passed away in 1688. In the early 60s the complex and gardens was renovated and turned into an interesting museum.
Today, very few foreign tourists spare an overnight to explore the town’s historical assets. They usually visit on day trips, many of them arriving on the early morning train from Bangkok. They tour the sights and catch the train in the evening on an overnight trip that takes them to Chiang Mai.
Lopburi, from a historic perspective is worth more than an afternoon peep and that is apparently why the monkeys are treated to a party to give this largely forgotten destination a plug in the media. At least that way we get to see what we have missed both in historical attractions and the Chinese delicacies that are served by the town’s best kitchens.
The event is hosted by Lopburi Inn Group. Call Lopburi Inn Hotel at 036 412 300 or Email: monkey@lopburiinnresort.com and monkeypartys@yahoo.com.

Tags : monkey, party, lopburi

The 22nd Standard Charter Bangkok Marathon

The 22nd Standard Charter Bangkok Marathon
Bangkok Marathon draws a record turnout
The 22nd Standard Charter Bangkok Marathon, 22 November, at the front of Wat Phra Kaew on Sanamchai road, Bangkok.
The Standard Charter Bangkok Marathon, 22 November, is now a firm fixture on the Asian marathon circuit attracting top runners and thousands of enthusiasts many of whom travel with their families for a welcome holiday at the close of the race.
But before the holiday can begin, runners need to cover 42 km on a course that wends its way through historical districts, past city landmarks, such as the National Museum and the Chao Phraya River to a finishing line in front of the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew (Emerald Buddha) on Sanan Chai Road, close to the vast parade ground known as Sanam Luang. On two scores, this marathon is special. It attracts an enormous turnout of more than 50,000 participants, at all fitness levels and categories. It is also one of the few marathons in Asia that beats the tropical heat by starting at 0200, when Bangkok’s usually grid-lock streets are almost deserted.The event has a time limit of seven hours for all participants with staggered starts that take into account the various performance levels of the runners.
For example, runners who estimate they can finish the course in five to seven hours assemble at the starting line on the road next to the Grand Palace at 0200. They have to be back at the same point by 0900, the cut-off time for all participants.
Wheelchair participants in the full marathon start at 0320, while elite runners with times of less than five hours leave at 0330
It makes for a very sensible and healthy solution that beats most of the heat and humidity with the last participants crossing the finish line three hours after sunrise at the very latest.
The event has some high powered support from Tourism Authority of Thailand, National Jogging Association of Thailand, Bangkok Metropolitan Administration, and the Ministry of Tourism and Sports and they have determined that this event should show case the city’s tourism appeal and be open to the widest possible participation.


Not surprisingly, the event has a strong appeal to not only semi professionals racing for gold and enthusiasts determined to improve on their best times, but also to ordinary folk, who have set themselves an easier goal related to their favourite sport of jogging.
There are five categories including the 42.195-km Marathon; 42.195-km wheelchair. For those who are less ambitious they can join a 10.55-km quarter marathon, which is no mean feat as the pace is much faster and competition tough at all age levels. To appeal to the widest audience possible there is also a 5 km Walk-Fun Run and a Walk for Health and Environment. The award ceremony starts at 0800 for the marathon itself followed by presentations to winners in all other categoriesVisit: www.bkkmarathon.comCall National Jogging Association of Thailand at 66 2628 8361

River Kwai Bridge Week

River Kwai Bridge WeekDate : 27 November - 8 December 2009Venue : River Kwai Bridge, Mueang District, Kanchanaburi
Each year in late November to early December, the world famous River Kwai Bridge built by Allied prisoners-of-war during World War II, becomes the focal point of celebrations.
Event highlights include historical and archaeological exhibits, a carnival, folk and cultural performances, rides on World War II vintage trains, and a spectacular light and sound presentation re-enacting the bridge’s World War II legacy.
Watch the light-and-sound show in remembrance of the bridge and the construction of the "Death Railway" during World War II (There are 4 sets of headphones available in English, Japanese, Chinese and German). A wealth of entertainment and Exhibitions are on display.
Contact : - TAT Kanchanaburi Office, Te l : 66 (0) 3451 1200, 66 (0) 3451 2500 Fax : 66 (0) 3451 1200, E-mai l: tatkan@tat.or.th - Kanchanaburi Provincial Administration Office, Tel. : 66 (0) 3451 1778website : www.tourismthailand.org , www.Kanchanaburi.go.th

2009-03-07

Magic moments in Khmer heritage



Magic moments in Khmer heritage
Magic moments in Khmer heritage
A splash of sunlight penetrating an ancient temple cloister signals a distinctive celebration at Prasat Phanom Rung.
Knowing the exact moment to witness a spectacular sunrise through the doorway of an ancient Hindu temple requires a detailed calculation. The most auspicious day is 3 April; the time, 0602.32 at sunrise, as the amber sun is perfectly aligned in the centre of the main doorway to a temple standing on a former volcanic mountain in northeast Thailand.
Actually, the sun rays pass straight through 15 perfectly aligned doorways of Prasat Phanom Rung, a revered and ancient Hindu monastery, just four times a year -– two sets of sunrises, in April and September, and two sets of sunsets, in March and October.These spectacular solar-related events, that also bear religious significance in the Hindu faithful, span just three days –- 2, 3 and 4 April. The second day is considered the most auspicious as the sun is visible dead centre of the outer doorway of this Khmer Hindu temple. Sun rays cast light through 15 aligned doorways that span 75 metres of the temple’s inner courtyard illuminating a revered lingam deep in the main sanctuary. On the other two days, the sun passes one of the corners of these doorways.
Located about 120 km east of Nakhon Ratchasima, the gateway to the northeast region, Prasat Phanom Rung presents a picturesque setting high above the surrounding countryside. A series of steps lead to this ancient monument that stands on the peak of an extinct volcano offering panoramic views of rice fields and hazy mountains on the border with Cambodia.
While photographers will not want to miss the opportunity to capture the 3 April sunrise perfectly aligned within the lintels of the doorways, most visitors will settle for the evening festivals and a colourful light and sound show organised by the Tourism Authority of Thailand performing nightly from 2 to 4 April.
Officially known as the “Ascent of the Mountain Annual Festival” or the “Festival Of The Thousand Year Miracle of the Phanom Rung Grand Shrine” the celebrations start with the religious significance of the sunrises, but continue with community festivities on each of the three days, well into the night.
The 80-minute light and sound show, that start at 20:00, highlights the history of Prasat Phanom Rung and explains the significance of the sunrise and its alignment with the temple’s courtyard doors. The show is described as an “extravagant outdoor Son et Lumiere performances led by a large cast of actors, dancers and acrobats.”This evening spectacular, held within the temple complex, compliments the daytime activities that start with the sunrise ceremonies and are followed by colourful festivities throughout the day. In the afternoon there is almost a carnival spirit as visitors enjoy the local food specialities sold at stalls, the folk music and dances as well as handicraft displays. Many visitors are tempted to stay on to admire the floodlight sanctuary, or slumber through night under the stars to ensure they have a prime spot to participate in the sunrise ceremonies on the following morning.

Bang Fai Phaya Nak (Naga Fireball)

Bang Fai Phaya Nak (Naga Fireball)
This extraordinary miracle always occurs at the beginning of the full moon night in the eleventh lunar month (End of Buddhist Lent). It can be seen along the Mekong River in the districts of Mueang, Phon Phisai, Pak Khat, Bung Kan, Tha Bo, Si Chiang Mai and Sangkhom. Bang Fai Phaya Nak is a term used for red and pinkish fire balls, which according to belief, belong to Phaya Nak or the great serpent of the underwater world. On the day marking the End of Buddhist Lent, a great number of people come to witness this phenomenon.
Naga Fireball Festival in Nong Khai
It remains a mystery that never ceases to puzzle both visitors and locals alike. Just what is the origin and nature of the fireballs that fly from the surface of the Mekong River high into the night sky for all to see?Locals swear there is absolutely no doubt at all about the origin of the fireballs. Naga, the serpent reportedly dwelling in the murky currents of this mighty river, propels fireballs skyward, probably to remind villagers to treat this life-giving river with respect.Of course, there are detractors, researchers who have spent years of study attempting to explain away the fireball phenomenon, all to no avail.Some say it is an elaborate hoax, but the only way to find out is to travel to Nong Khai and check out river scene and the carnivals that villagers organise to celebrate the now famous legendary serpent.Festivities run from 10 to 16 October, along the Mekong River bank, in Phon Pisai district in Nong Khai province. There are also corresponding celebrations on the Lao side of the river and no shortage of theories on whether Thailand’s neighbours, on the opposite bank, may know more than they are admitting on what causes the spectacle.But there is no denying the fact that there is something almost mystical that causes the fireballs to erupt from the surface of the river, and villagers are taking no chances, hence the religious activities at various temples in the district to appease the Naga.Visitors can participate in a traditional "Tak Bat Thevo" ceremony, or the early morning alms giving to monks. It involves offering sticky rice wrapped in coconut leaves, presented on the important final days of the three-month Buddhist Lent.In the evenings, during the festival week, people gather at the river bank for the Naga procession and cultural performance that reflect the rural village traditions of the northeast region.If all goes to plan the highlight of the trip will be the amazing sight of the Naga fireballs erupting into the sky, a phenomenon that is very likely to prompt some light hearted banter and arguments at riverside food stalls over glasses of ale or the local rice whisky on their origin. The most convenient way to reach Nong Khai is to take one of the many daily flights offered from Bangkok to Udon Thani, either on the national airline Thai Airways International, or one of the low-cost airlines. The flight takes 50 minutes and from Udon Thani, mini buses offer a 40 minute transfer to Nong Khai. An alternative is to take the rail service that runs every evening from Bangkok to Nong Khai.
Contact :TAT Udon Thani, Tel. : 66 (0) 4232 5406-7Nong Khai Provincial Administration Office, Tel. : 66 (0) 4242 0323Website : www.tourismthailand.orgE-mail : tatudon@tat.or.th

MEKONG RIVER ITU TRIATHLON ASIAN CUP 2008

MARCH 28 - 30, 20082008 MEKONG RIVER ITU TRIATHLON ASIAN CUPITU Point Race
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), Mukdahan provincial authorities, Mukdahan municipality, the Triathlon Association of Thailand and the Asian Triathlon Confederation (ASTC) are jointly organizing the 2007 Mekong River International ITU Triathlon Asian Cup competition to promote sports tourism and foster closer relations among the six Greater Mekong Subregion member countries namely Thailand, Cambodia, Lao PDR, Myanmar, Vietnam and southern China.
Contact information: TAT Northeastern Office – Region 4 Tel: +66 (0) 4251-3490-1Fax: +66 (0) 4251-3492E-mail: tatphnom@tat.or.th

Phangan Triathlon 2009

Phangan Triathlon 2009 Date : March 14 -15, 2009Venue (Start/Finish) : Thongsala beach, Koh Phangan, Suratthani, Thailand
Koh Phangan Tourism Promotion association, Koh Tao Tourism Association and Phangan Triathlon Association are hosting the Second Phangan Triathlcn to help build a reputation as attractive triathlon destination. Distances : 1. Duathlon : Run 10 Km. Bike 40 Km. Run 5 Km.2. Triathlon : Swim 1.5 Km. Bike 40 Km. Run 10 Km. 3. Triathlon Team Competition : for three (male and female)4. Triathlon : The age under 15 and Team : Swim 500 M. Bike 15 Km. Run 5 Km. Prize money for the duathlon open category is Bt5,000 and Bt8,000 male open.Triathlon prize money is Bt10,000, except for male open, Bt12,000 and age under 15 Bt5,000.
For more information : www.phangantriathlon.com

Buffalo Racing


Buffalo Racing You could be forgiven for thinking that a domesticated buffalo is not built for sprinting, but in Chonburi town, the gateway to resorts along the east coast of the Gulf of Thailand, farmers have managed to tweak a turn of speed from these working animals that is nothing short of amazing.
The annual Buffalo races, 3 - 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.

Aka Hill Tribes Mini Light and Sound Presentation


Aka Hill Tribes Mini Light and Sound PresentationDate : Saturday 10 January / 14 Febuary / 14 March /11 April 2009Venue : Chiang Rai Social Development Centre 12 on the Doi Mae Salong road in Pa Sang Sub-district of Mae Chan, Chiang Rai
Chiang Rai province hosts its annual light and sound show that presents insights into the culture and daily life of the Aka hill tribes, resident in hilltop villages in Mae Chan District. First introduced in 1999, the show is now staged once a month during the tourist high season from January to April.
This month, the show will be presented, 10 January, 14 Febuary, 14 March and then finally on 11 April, at the Chiang Rai Social Development Centre 12 on the Doi Mae Salong road in Pa Sang Sub-district of Mae Chan.


Aka hill tribe villagers perform at the centre demonstrating authentic renderings of their culture and lifestyle to visitors. There are also handicrafts on display. The centre is also considering the introduction of home-stay accommodation that will focus on international tourists to encourage community-based tourism. It will allow visitors, who are interested in Aka traditions, to study the village up close with village elders providing instruction and insights into cottage industry and cultural activities.
The light and sound show is presented in both Thai and English, and runs from 1730 to 1930. Tickets cost Bt150 per person and the show with dinner is priced at Bt300 per person.
For more information, please callTAT Chiang Rai OfficeTel. 66 (0) 5374 4674-5, 66 (0) 5371 7433Chiang Rai Social Development Centre 12

Tel. 66 (0) 5391 4471

Lamduan Flower Festival 2009


Lamduan Flower Festival 2009Date : 9 - 15 March 2009Venue : Srinagarindra Park, Si Sa Ket College of Agriculture and Technology, Mueang District, Si Sa Ket Province
Featuring the numerous of Lamduan Flower, Buddhist seermon and meditation, a light and sound presentation, enjoy cultural performances and local entertainment during the fair
For more information, please contact :Si Sa Ket Municipal Office : Tel. 0 4561 1591, 0 4561 2018TAT Si Sa Ket Office : Tel. 0 4451 4447-8TAT Call Center 1672

5 th World Thai Martial Arts Festival

5 th World Thai Martial Arts FestivalCELEBRATION NAIKHANOM TOM DAY ASSOCIATION INSTITUTE OF THAI MARTIAL ARTS & WORLD MUAYTHAI FEDERATIONWai-Kru Ceremony Muay Boran & Krabi – Krabong SeminarNai Khanomtom Pro/Championships BeltDate: 15th - 17th March 2009, Venue: City of Ayutthaya Stadium, Ayutthaya, Thailand


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


The Wai Kru process will also give him time to concentrate & revise what he has learned, as well as display the nature of his weapons and the high degree of his skill. The steps, movements & use of his weapons are designed to warm up the body’s muscles, survey the field of play & conceal the contestant’s style of fighting. When the traditional Sarama music sounds around the ring it is recognised by all who are present as a symbol of deference & respect. Prior to the fight, the music helps to urge the fighter on, and rouses his spirit until he is ready to face his opponent in the boxing ring in manly combat.
Programs Sunday 15th March 2009 07.00 - 16.00 hr. Seminar of Muay Boran Courses & Krabi Krabong 08.00 - 16.00 hr. Competition of Amateur Muay Thai, Muay Thai Boran and Krabi Krabong 17.30 hr. Introduction to all the Grand Masters and Masters all Ranking of Kru. Oats of respect to all teachers. Present Mongkon and blessing to the new comers. the Fighter for Muaythai ready for the start. 19.30 hr. Welcome Party Monday 16th March 2009 07.00 - 16.00 hr. Seminar of Muay Boran & Krabi Krabong Courses 08.00 - 16.00 hr. Competition of Mae Mai Muay Thai, Amateur Muay Thai, Muay Thai Boran and Krabi Krabong (Semi-Finals) 10.00 - 16.00 hr. Local Thai Sports Show… Muay Thai Boran, Muay Tabchak and fighting cock19.00 - 20.00 hr. Competition of Aerobic Muay Thai Tuesday 17th March 2009 "WORLD MUAYTHAI DAY (NAI KHANOMTOM DAY)" 07.00 hr. For anyone must go to pay respect and holy 10.00 - 15.00 hr. Ceremony at Nai Khanomtom statue. President arrival at the statue Start of the Holy Ceremony The final 3 bout of Amateur, Final Muay Boran, demonstration Presentation of Wai Kru, Mae Mai & Amateur Medals And Special Nai Khanomtom Amateur Local Thai Sports Show… Muay Thai Boran, Muay Tabchak and fighting cock 10.00 - 16.00 hr. Closing Ceremony For More Information : www.ideabar.com/muaythai

Pattaya International Music Festival 2009

Pattaya International Music Festival 2009
Cool music to beat summer heat
Pattaya International Music Festival gets underway 20 March to help residents and visitors to beat recession blues.
The grand Pattaya Music Festival is back in town to entertain music lovers. This is an unrivalled opportunity to enjoy a weekend of listening and dancing to beautiful music performed by more than 100 musicians. Fun awaits everyone, 20 to 22 March.
Postponed last year, the festival is back and promises to be an annual event. According to Pattaya’s city hall it was revived to lighten the mood to give residents and tourists all the more reason to smile and enjoy the resort. It echoes the sentiments of William Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night – “if music be the food of love play on”…
The event is also part of a wider nation-wide campaign “Amazing Thailand Amazing Value” managed by the Tourism Authority of Thailand to deliver events and value-for-money features to Thai and international travellers.
For music lovers it will certainly enhance their holiday and will also help to turn Pattaya into a musical paradise broadening its appeal.
The event is supported by well-known music companies such as GMM Grammy and its partners Modernine TV, Channel [V] Thailand, Channel [V] International and the Korea Foundation for International Exchange.
International musicians will be flown in by recording companies such as SM Entertainment from Korea, EEG from Hong Kong, Ocean Butterfly from China, House of Indies from Vietnam, Halo Music from Malaysia, AMPHEAD from Australia, INDEE RECORDS from Laos, and AVEX from Taiwan.
Visitors can choose their own style of music too. Are you into Pop, Hip-Hop, R&B, or Rock musicω The event features three music stages located at the Bali Hai pier at the southern end of the main bay, central Pattaya, and Pattaya Soi 4. Music themes will rotate between all three stages.
On Friday 20 March, visitors can enjoy Pop songs at the Bali Hai, Rock at central Pattaya and easy listening music at Soi 4. On Saturday, Pop and Rock will be performed at the Bali Hai stage, Hip-Hop at central Pattaya, and Jazz at Soi 4, while on Sunday, visitors can enjoy Rock at Bali Hai, Country Western music at central Pattaya, and Pop Rock at Soi 4.
Thai musicians include Golf&Mike, Pancake, Clash, ABNormal, Paradox, Bodyslam, Ebola, Zeal, Joey Boy and THE STAR.
International artists such as SHINEE and Girl’s generation from Korea, Kym Jin Sha from China, Cirque due Freak from Australia, Minh Thu from Vietnam, Rynn Lim from Malaysia, and Kenny Kwan from Hong Kong will also join the event.
TAT is responsible for two of the stages, one at the south Pattaya pier (Bali Hai) and one at Soi 4 on Pattaya beach road. The third stage in central Pattaya, is funded by a Bt10 million budget and run by Pattaya city and Chonburi Provincial Administrative Organisation. For more informationTAT Call Center 1672TAT Pattaya 66 (0) 3842 1005-6e-mail : tatchon@tat.or.th

Singapore And Thailand Launch World’s First Medical Tourism Concierge Network

Singapore – February 24, 2009 – FlyFreeForHealth, the world's first comprehensive Business-to-Customer and Business-to-Business medical tourism hub with the support of Tourism Authority of Thailand, today launched the world's first medical concierge network which signifies a new trend in consolidating borderless healthcare globally. Inter-country medical tourism concierge network is starting to be established between major medical hubs in Asia to offer medical travelers around the world immediate access to personalised medical tourism information in various languages at a ‘click-away’. Speaking at the launch, Dr Wei Siang Yu, founder of FlyFreeForHealth said, “the new business to consumer shift (B2C) is seeing the behavioural pattern of medical travelers changing – they look for more options; they also want more interaction before selecting the doctor.” Merely looking for information on the internet is no longer sufficient. “The current model of hospital’s agents/facilitators just assisting medical travelers in hospital booking has been completely revolutionised by FlyFreeForHealth’s digital Medical Butler – iMedical Butler. Medical travelers look for unbiased information platform that can assist them in the process of doctor selection before having direct contact with the hospitals or doctors. Our nurses are trained in hospitality, IT and tourism to facilitate this selection process. iMedical Butlers act as an online researcher enabling medical tourists to obtain personalised information for health and lifestyle services, invite them to webinars by renowned doctors for a content rich pre-selection interaction”, Dr Wei further added. In addition to the B2C trend, businesses are also looking for more cost efficient and integrated solutions for all the partners. In this Business to Business (B2B) shift, all the players such as the hospitals, government bodies, airlines and travel agencies are looking at providing a more cost efficient and seamless experience to their clients, and hence the formation of synergistic medical concierge network for end to end service. With the support from the Tourism Authority of Thailand, partnership with medical service providers and travel agent in Singapore – CTC Holidays, FlyFreeForHealth is setting up an unprecedented medical tourism concierge network. The network will consolidate existing medical tourism destinations in Asia as one region with seamless integration in health and lifestyle services. iMedical Butlers will assist the medical travelers from the beginning till the post-procedure management after they return to their country seamlessly. Such end-to-end solution which includes post-op cross border patient management will further improve the patient’s quality of recuperation. Medical travelers for the first time will be engaged in an impartial communication during their doctor selection process. Speaking at the occasion, Mrs. Porntip Makornpan, Director, Tourism Authority of Thailand said, “Thailand is the largest health and wellness destination globally with more than 1.5 million medical tourists last year. The recent launch of Seven Amazing Wonders by Tourism Authority of Thailand, will not only integrate existing health and wellness tourism market but also with other aspects like – meditation, eco-tourism, shopping etc. Tourists can expect amazing value from a broad range of wellness products from the Land of Smiles.” The attraction of affording high quality healthcare is attracting patients annually to Asia for healthcare needs in Thailand, Singapore, India, and Malaysia. According to Deloitte Centre for health solutions, the number of Americans travelling abroad for care is expected to reach 6 million in 2010 and 15.75 million by 2017. $16 billion in cross border revenues is expected to grow by 325% to $ 68 Billion in 2 years. “FlyFreeForHealth has solved my entire problem and given me assurance, now, I can chat with the iMedical Butler and have the butler help me research on my desired aesthetic services I want before I select the doctor. Not to mention, I am bringing some friends along who can’t wait to lay their hands on my shopping vouchers”, said Lucy Tan who is looking at tapping great value provided by health service provider in Thailand. Singapore to Thailand traffic for medical tourism can look extremely favourable now, with the Singapore government setting the green light for medisave claims, which was recently featured in the news.iMedical Butler has not only transformed the consumer interface for medical tourism, hundreds of nurses and parahealth professionals are now signing up to be part of this powerful online concierge network. For further information, please email us at info@flyfreeforhealth.com This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .Or http://www.flyfreeforhealth.com

THAILAND TRADE MART TOUR

THAILAND TRADE MART TOUR CHATUCHAK WEEKEND MARKET, J.J.MALL & J.J.PLAZASATURDAY 18TH OCTOBER 2008/ 09.30 A.M.-03.30 P.M.
Discover the Most Well-Known Market of Thailand! Chatuchak MarketIf you are looking for the delightful handicrafts and fashionable products, let’s join our trade mart tour and see it for yourself.
During your visit to our Bangkok International Gift Fair and Bangkok International Houseware Fair 2008 (BIG+BIH 2008), the Department of Export Promotion would like to invite you to join “Thailand Trade Mart Tour” to visit Thailand’s famous handicraft and fashion center at Chatuchak Weekend Market, J.J. Plaza and J.J. Mall on Saturday 18th, October 2008 at 9.30 a.m.-3.30 p.m.
Chatuchak Weekend Market is one of the world’s largest weekend markets covers area of 70 rai (28 acres) altogether divided into 28 sections, contains more than 15,000 booths selling goods from every part of Thailand. Chatuchak Weekend Market is a very popular shopping centre to Thais and has become a popular place to tourists and foreigners. There have over 200,000 visitors each day (FRI-SUN). There are almost everything can be found here at a bargaining local price, and most vendors actually come from local factories, like antique wood carving, clay handicrafts, local souvenirs, hand made decorated flowers, ceramic wares, trendy fashions, silk, etc.
J.J.Plaza is another famous open-air market. There are more than 700 shops in 17 rai (6.8 acres), where you can find a great variety of goods everyday. This place is a big market for Thai local products export. The variety and lively atmosphere of J.J.Plaza has added color to Bangkok people for a long time.
J.J.Mall is next to Chatuchak Weekend Market. It is a 3-storeyed and air-conditioned shopping center, which contains more than 1,100 shops. It is a center of various merchandises ranging from products from wisdom and exported goods to delicious cuisines for domestic and foreign shoppers. J.J.Mall is an everyday Bangkok shopping paradise where you can buy everything from clothing, handicrafts, arts & paintings, and various items of home décor & accessories.

Walk in Registration:At Thailand Trade Mart Tour Counter at Challenger 2,(14-17 October 2008) IMPACT, Muang Thong Thani, Bangkok, Thailand.
Organizer: Department of Export Promotion, Ministry of Commerce International Business Consulting Center Contact person: Miss Nongnapat Toupthong (Pha)
Trde Advisor, Trade Mart Division +66 80 924 7960, +66 81 930 4046 E-mail:nongnapatt@depthai.go.th, gornthongt@depthai.go.th Fax. +66 (2) 5120328, +66 (2) 5120323

2009-03-06

1ST ASIAN MARTIAL ARTS GAMES 2009




The 1st Asian Martial Arts Games 2009 will be hosted by Thailand from 25 April to 3 May 2009 in Bangkok as well as Suphan Buri province of Thailand. Featured games including compulsory Martial Arts, namely Karatedo, Kickboxing, Wushu, Muay, Kungfu and Kurash, as well as optional Martial Arts namely, Jujitsu & Beltwrestling, Pencat Silat and Kaliripattu.
This event will see the participation from 45 countries with expecting more than 2,500 competitors around the world.

For More Information, please call 1672

The Illuminated Boat Procession



Date : 29 September – 15 Octorber 2009Venue : 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 1574Website : http://www.tourismthailand.org/E-mail : tatphnom@tat.or.th

4th Phuket Japanese Festival

4th Phuket Japanese Festival
Tourism Authority of Thailand, Phuket Office and Phuket Japanese Association will hold “The 4th Phuket Japanese Festival” on the 7th of March 2009 at Queen Sirikit Park in Phuket Town.
As we are one of the parts of Phuket, we would like to provide the opportunity to the local people who is working for the tourism and local students interested in Japan and Japanese people through the Japanese traditional festival which introduce the Japanese culture and foods, and we hope these experiences will help them to be familiar with Japanese tourists.
And also, we hope this festival make Japanese children in Phuket improve their knowledge of Japan.
Due to the economic crisis and the Bangkok Airport closed last year, it is very hard situation for Japanese market. So we hope this festival shows the good news of Phuket through the media to Japan and can be contributed to the tourism as we usually had done in the past.
This festival is supported by Tourism Authority of Thailand (Phuket Office), Japan Embassy in Bangkok, The Japan Foundation, Japanese Chamber of Commerce in Bangkok, and Japanese Association in Thailand, Fujifilm and Japan Airlines which are our special sponsors.
The highlights of the festival are “Free photo taken with Kimono by Fujifilm” and “JAL Air Ticket to Japan” for the lucky draw.
Also, In order to promote further exchanges between Japan and Mekong Region Countries (Kingdom of Cambodia, Lao People’s Democratic Republic, Union of Myanmar, Kingdom of Thailand, and Socialist Republic of Viet Nam), it was decided at the Japan-Mekong Foreign Ministers’ Meeting held in January 2008 to celebrate the year 2009 as "Mekong-Japan Exchange Year." By the government.
In this Japanese festival, it came to co-sponsor with The Japan Foundation, Bangkok, and to screen the movies as a film festival, and it is authorized as one of the events of the Japan - Mekong Exchange Year. Two movies will be shown (“YUKI NI NEGAUKOTO” and “BEAT KIDS”).
The movies will be shown at the Baan Kathu School one day before the festival on March 6, 2009 and it is also one of the promotions for the festival.
We will hold the first speech contest during the festival. We would like to provide the opportunity to the students who are studying Japanese hard, and we hope they use this event for the improved motivation to further studying Japanese.
In others, the Heisei Nozomi no Kai, Japanese acting volunteer group comes from Japan to show the Edo folk craft as same as the last time, and you will enjoy it. And also we will organize Thai Classical Dancing Performance to present Thai Traditional cultural for relationship between Thailand and Japan; such as local Thai dessert.
Additionally, we have much more things at the festival. Lucky draw free ticket and free gift will be distributed, first come and first served basis. We are waiting for many people coming on that day.
More information Contact: TAT Phuket Office Tel. 076 – 212213, 211036 orPhuket Japanese Association Tel. 076 – 234446

2009-03-01

The 24th ASEAN Barred Ground Dove Festival

The 24th ASEAN Barred Ground Dove FestivalDate : 7 - 8 March 2008Venue : Khwan Mueang Park, Mueang District, Yala
Thais have long believed that doves are creatures which bring good luck to those who rare them. They are also regarded as symbols of purity and peach. Those with qualities specified by ancient texts are believed to bestow great wealth and honor upon their owners. The ASEAN Barred Ground Dove Festival attracts dove-lovers from the southern part of Thailand as well as from neighboring countries. The major highlight is a dove-cooing and red-whiskered bulbul singing competition. Local products are on sale as well.
Contact : TAT Narathiwat Office, Tel. 66 (0) 7351 6144, 7352 2411Yala Municipality Office, Tel. 66 (0) 7321 4898

Thai Elephant Week

Thai Elephant WeekDate : 12 March 2009Venue : Thai Elephant Conservation Centre, Lampang
Thailand’s most noble beast, the elephant is the star of two important events this month. In the northern province of Lampang, people interested in the welfare and care of these noble animals gather for Thai Elephant Week, 12 March at the Thai Elephant Conservation Centre.The scene of documentary films made for worldwide TV audience, the conservation centre, located in Hang Chat district in Lampang province, is a renowned refuge where elephants, both healthy and invalid, can be cared for and respected.In this day visitors can learn from mahouts about the traditions and practices that help to maintain an elephant’s health and well-being. On the lighter side, visitors can also join the mahouts, feeding the elephants in the style of the northern Khantok dinner. Considered an ancient royal tradition adopted by princes and high-ranking officials of the Lanna Kingdom, the Khantok dinner is at the pinnacle of traditional northern cuisine. So what better way to recognise and respect our elephants than to give them a Khantok treatω
For more informationTAT Chiang Mai Office, Tel 66 (0) 5324 8604, 66 (0) 5324 8607Thai Elephant Conservation Centre, Tel 66 (0) 5424 7979www.thailandelephant.org

King’s Cup Elephant Polo Tournament


King’s Cup Elephant Polo TournamentDate : 23 - 30 March 2009Venue : Anantara Golden Triangle Resort, Chiang Rai
The 8th King’s Cup Elephant Polo Tournament takes place, 23 - 30 March, on the playing field of the Anantara Resort, near the Golden Triangle, Chiang Saen district.First held in Hua Hin, the tournament moved north to Chiang Saen two years ago. The event attracts 50 polo players, who represent teams sponsored by companies in Thailand as well as polo clubs in foreign countries. All told, 12 teams compete for the trophy. It requires 18 elephants to travel to the venue from their home pastures in Surin province, in northeast Thailand.Anantara Resort is located on the road that follows one of the tributaries that flows into the Mekong River at the area known as the Golden Triangle, where the borders of Thailand, Myanmar and Laos meet.It is approximately 80 km north of Chiang Rai. The provincial city is served by both scheduled and low-cost airlines based in Bangkok.
For more informationwww.anantaraelephantpolo.com

Phangan Triathlon 2009


Phangan Triathlon 2009 Date : March 14 -15, 2009Venue (Start/Finish) : Thongsala beach, Koh Phangan, Suratthani, Thailand

Koh Phangan Tourism Promotion association, Koh Tao Tourism Association and Phangan Triathlon Association are hosting the Second Phangan Triathlcn to help build a reputation as attractive triathlon destination. Distances : 1. Duathlon : Run 10 Km. Bike 40 Km. Run 5 Km.2. Triathlon : Swim 1.5 Km. Bike 40 Km. Run 10 Km. 3. Triathlon Team Competition : for three (male and female)4. Triathlon : The age under 15 and Team : Swim 500 M. Bike 15 Km. Run 5 Km. Prize money for the duathlon open category is Bt5,000 and Bt8,000 male open.Triathlon prize money is Bt10,000, except for male open, Bt12,000 and age under 15 Bt5,000.
For more information : http://www.phangantriathlon.com/

Mekong River International Multi-Sport ITU Asian Cup 2009


Mekong River International Multi-Sport ITU Asian Cup 2009Date : 27th - 29th March 2009Venue : Along the Mekong river, Amphoe Mueang Nong Khai, Nong KhaiHightlights :Buddy Bike & RunAquathlon Asian Cup Series 2009Duathlon Asian Cup Series 2009Triathlon ITU Asian Cup 2009Let’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 335TAT Udon Thani, Tel. 66 (0) 4232 5406-7Events Planning Division,TAT, Tel. 66 (0) 2250 5500 ext. 3475-77TAT Call Center 1672website : http://www.thaitriathlon.org/


5 th World Thai Martial Arts Festival


5 th World Thai Martial Arts FestivalCELEBRATION NAIKHANOM TOM DAY ASSOCIATION INSTITUTE OF THAI MARTIAL ARTS & WORLD MUAYTHAI FEDERATIONWai-Kru Ceremony Muay Boran & Krabi – Krabong SeminarNai Khanomtom Pro/Championships BeltDate: 15th - 17th March 2009, Venue: City of Ayutthaya Stadium, Ayutthaya, Thailand

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

The Wai Kru process will also give him time to concentrate & revise what he has learned, as well as display the nature of his weapons and the high degree of his skill. The steps, movements & use of his weapons are designed to warm up the body’s muscles, survey the field of play & conceal the contestant’s style of fighting. When the traditional Sarama music sounds around the ring it is recognised by all who are present as a symbol of deference & respect. Prior to the fight, the music helps to urge the fighter on, and rouses his spirit until he is ready to face his opponent in the boxing ring in manly combat.
Programs Sunday 15th March 2009 07.00 - 16.00 hr. Seminar of Muay Boran Courses & Krabi Krabong 08.00 - 16.00 hr. Competition of Amateur Muay Thai, Muay Thai Boran and Krabi Krabong 17.30 hr. Introduction to all the Grand Masters and Masters all Ranking of Kru. Oats of respect to all teachers. Present Mongkon and blessing to the new comers. the Fighter for Muaythai ready for the start. 19.30 hr. Welcome Party Monday 16th March 2009 07.00 - 16.00 hr. Seminar of Muay Boran & Krabi Krabong Courses 08.00 - 16.00 hr. Competition of Mae Mai Muay Thai, Amateur Muay Thai, Muay Thai Boran and Krabi Krabong (Semi-Finals) 10.00 - 16.00 hr. Local Thai Sports Show… Muay Thai Boran, Muay Tabchak and fighting cock19.00 - 20.00 hr. Competition of Aerobic Muay Thai Tuesday 17th March 2009 "WORLD MUAYTHAI DAY (NAI KHANOMTOM DAY)" 07.00 hr. For anyone must go to pay respect and holy 10.00 - 15.00 hr. Ceremony at Nai Khanomtom statue. President arrival at the statue Start of the Holy Ceremony The final 3 bout of Amateur, Final Muay Boran, demonstration Presentation of Wai Kru, Mae Mai & Amateur Medals And Special Nai Khanomtom Amateur Local Thai Sports Show… Muay Thai Boran, Muay Tabchak and fighting cock 10.00 - 16.00 hr. Closing Ceremony For More Information : www.ideabar.com/muaythai

Thailand Ocean to Ocean Relay Running V

Thailand Ocean to Ocean Relay Running VDate : March 21st - 22nd, 2009Venue : Songkhla to Satun
Thailand Ocean to Ocean Relay Running V - Sunset to Sunrise is held for the first time in Thailand. Thailand is comprised with 2 beautiful shores in which the east is part of the Pacific Ocean (Gulf of Thailand) and along the western shore is the Indian Ocean (Andaman Sea). The total distance is 136.6 km. From the amount of distance covered in this relay running event with a team of 8 runners, estimating 18 km. per runner, thus, the total session should take about 12 hours. In this case, starting from the eastern shore of Songkhla Province (Pacific Ocean - Gulf of Thailand) by the time sun rises, to the western shore of Satun Province (Indian Ocean - Andaman Sea) after the sun has set. For more informationsVejthani Hospital Tel. 66 2734 - 0390 Ext. 1206 Hatyai Running Club Tel. 66 1959 - 8461 TAT Hatyai Office Tel. 66 7423 1055, 66 7423 8518, 66 7424 3747www.runningthailand.net , www.songkhlatourism.org , www.songkhlatourism.com

4th Phuket Japanese Festival

Tourism Authority of Thailand, Phuket Office and Phuket Japanese Association will hold “The 4th Phuket Japanese Festival” on the 7th of March 2009 at Queen Sirikit Park in Phuket Town.
As we are one of the parts of Phuket, we would like to provide the opportunity to the local people who is working for the tourism and local students interested in Japan and Japanese people through the Japanese traditional festival which introduce the Japanese culture and foods, and we hope these experiences will help them to be familiar with Japanese tourists.
And also, we hope this festival make Japanese children in Phuket improve their knowledge of Japan.
Due to the economic crisis and the Bangkok Airport closed last year, it is very hard situation for Japanese market. So we hope this festival shows the good news of Phuket through the media to Japan and can be contributed to the tourism as we usually had done in the past.
This festival is supported by Tourism Authority of Thailand (Phuket Office), Japan Embassy in Bangkok, The Japan Foundation, Japanese Chamber of Commerce in Bangkok, and Japanese Association in Thailand, Fujifilm and Japan Airlines which are our special sponsors.
The highlights of the festival are “Free photo taken with Kimono by Fujifilm” and “JAL Air Ticket to Japan” for the lucky draw.
Also, In order to promote further exchanges between Japan and Mekong Region Countries (Kingdom of Cambodia, Lao People’s Democratic Republic, Union of Myanmar, Kingdom of Thailand, and Socialist Republic of Viet Nam), it was decided at the Japan-Mekong Foreign Ministers’ Meeting held in January 2008 to celebrate the year 2009 as "Mekong-Japan Exchange Year." By the government.
In this Japanese festival, it came to co-sponsor with The Japan Foundation, Bangkok, and to screen the movies as a film festival, and it is authorized as one of the events of the Japan - Mekong Exchange Year. Two movies will be shown (“YUKI NI NEGAUKOTO” and “BEAT KIDS”).
The movies will be shown at the Baan Kathu School one day before the festival on March 6, 2009 and it is also one of the promotions for the festival.
We will hold the first speech contest during the festival. We would like to provide the opportunity to the students who are studying Japanese hard, and we hope they use this event for the improved motivation to further studying Japanese.
In others, the Heisei Nozomi no Kai, Japanese acting volunteer group comes from Japan to show the Edo folk craft as same as the last time, and you will enjoy it. And also we will organize Thai Classical Dancing Performance to present Thai Traditional cultural for relationship between Thailand and Japan; such as local Thai dessert.
Additionally, we have much more things at the festival. Lucky draw free ticket and free gift will be distributed, first come and first served basis. We are waiting for many people coming on that day.
More information Contact: TAT Phuket Office Tel. 076 – 212213, 211036 orPhuket Japanese Association Tel. 076 – 234446

2009-02-23

PHUKET HISTORY

Phuket has undergone a number of name changes over the years. One commonly used was Junk Ceylon, which can be found on most old maps.
On a major trading route and a port of call for many over the years, Phuket has been influenced by passing merchants some of which have remained to shape the island into what we see today, a cultural melting pot. Chinese, Malay, Portuguese, Burmese, they have all left their mark on the culture and religious make-up of Phuket and also in its architecture, as can been seen in the old sector of Phuket Town and the Chinese temples and Muslim mosques dotted around the island.
Probably Phuket’s most significant event was the stand by Phuketians against an invasion from the Burmese.Khunying Jan, wife of the recently deceased Phuket Governor, and her sister, Mook, assembled forces, mainly women, and held the Burmese off for over a month, until they finally left on 13th March 1785. With a small male population at the time and lack of weapons, the women cut their hair short to look like men, made “fake” weapons and created the illusion of a sizeable army. As a result of this, King Rama I bestowed titles of nobility on the two sisters.Today on the bypass road north of Phuket Town south of Thalang, you will see a monument in memory of the two sisters and their bravery. This is known locally as the heroines monument and is an island landmark.
The 19th century saw the arrival in numbers of Chinese immigrants. They came to work in the tin mines, a booming industry, and later established businesses and their own community on Phuket.Signs of Chinese influence can be found around the island today, with the older communities still in Phuket Town.
Due to the multi-cultural nature of Phuket people, there are numerous festivals from a variety of religions and cultures throughout the year. Today, the majority religion is Buddhism, with significant populations of Malay Muslims, Thai Chinese Buddhists and Christians from the early Portuguese presence, but more recently from expatriates who have made Phuket their home.

1ST ASIAN MARTIAL ARTS GAMES 2009

1ST ASIAN MARTIAL ARTS GAMES 200925 Apr 2009 - 3 May 2009 The Thai Cabinet together with the Olympic Council of Asia made an announcement during the 52nd OCA Executive Board Meeting in Bangkok for Thailand to host the 1st Asian Martial Art Games 2009 during 25 April - 3 May, 2009. This Asian Martial Art Games is the latest games set up by the Olympic Council of Asia. In order for this event to be a success, a number of committees have been established in which the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has been appointed as the Committee for Public Relations.Being the first country to host the Asian Martial Art Games will also help promote Thailand’s image as a sports tourism destination to the world. There will be approximately 2,500 people from 45 countries participating in these Games. The competition will take place in 4 different venues: Indoor Stadium Hua Mark Sports Authority of Thailand, Nimibutr Gymnasium Supachalasai National Stadium, Bangkok Youth Centre (Thai-Japanese) Stadium, and Sports School Suphan Buri province. However, the opening and closing ceremony will take place at the Indoor Stadium Hua Mark on 28 April and 3 May, respectively. Moreover, there will be 9 different kinds of sport over a 9-day period, which include Karatedo, Kickboxing, Muai, Wushu and Kungfu, Jujitsu, Pencak Silat, Judo, Taekwondo, and Kurash.Further information on the details of the history, important information of the training, Games, and details of the stadium of the 1st Asian Martial Art Games 2009 will be posted on the Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT) or the official Olympic Council of Asia’s website.

Contact information: Sports Authority of Thailand Ramkhamhaeng Rd., Huamark Bangkapi Bangkok 10240, ThailandTel: 0-2369-0999Fax: 0-2319-3883Web site: sat.or.th or www.ocasia.org (The Olympic Council of Asia)

World Comedy Film Festival 2009

Fact SheetTitle : World Comedy Film Festival 2009Concept : Laughter’s Beyond FrontiersTime frame : April 23-29, 2009Venues : Paragon Cineplex, Siam Paragon and SF World Cinema, Central WorldObjectives : 1. Improving the image of the country after the political, economic, and social crisis of the past two years.2. Regaining the confidence of foreign tourists and investors.3. Bringing in income during the time of recession.4. Creating an atmosphere of harmony and reducing tension among the people.Target Groups and Beneficiarie:1. Foreign tourists.2. Foreign investors and film industry operators: Fortifying the country‘s strength as an investment and production base.3. Thai people: Increasing consumer spending and stimulating the economy.Main Activities: 1. Opening Ceremony Welcoming guests from various foreign film industries, beginning with a fancy parade of local comedians dressed as the world’s well - known comedians and characters.2. Closing Ceremony A gala night for comedians and festival participants, joining to pay tribute to one of the world’s renowned film comedians with an honorary award for his or her contribution to the art and world of comedy.3. Film Screenings 55 films in total.
Scope and Contents:1. The screenings of comedy films from all over the world. Tentative program includes twenty films from Asian countries; such as, China, Korea, Japan, Taiwan, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, India, Pakistan, Kazakhstan, Lebanon, Palestine, Kyrgyzstan, Sri Lanka and Syria, twenty films from Europe, America and Africa, ten Thai classic and contemporary films, and some internationally regarded shorts. The goal is to bring together highly successful comedy films, directors and actors with a special focus on Asian cinema.2. There are seven comedy film festivals existing internationally. This is the first one to be held in Asia. 3. This is the first time the Comedian Association, the Federation of National Film Associations, and the Tourism Authority of Thailand co-operate together to showcase the local prowess of comedy acts in films and other kinds of media.Expected Results: 1. Atmosphere of fun and pleasant feelings between the Thai people and foreigners touring the country.2. Consumer spending with more jobs and income for those involved in the film industry and tourism generated from having 1,000 expected participants, film industry operators, and the press from various parts of the world, joining the festival.Organizers: 1. The Federation of National Film Associations of Thailand2. Tourism Authority of Thailand

The North Face River Kwai Trophy 2009

The North Face River Kwai Trophy 2009Date : 28 February 2009Venue : Saiyok district, Kanchanaburi
Under the banner of the Amazing Thailand Adventure Race Series, the event will attract 120 teams comprising of two participants in each team, who will tackle an adventure course that includes running, mountain biking, swimming and kayaking. The race route travels along scenic trails and explore the mountainnns and farmlands of western Thailand.Backing the event are the Tourism Authority of Thailand and North Face, while the actual running of the event comes under sports activity specialist, Active Management Asia.
Extreme adventure racing, that test stamina and team work, has grown in popularity in Thailand with the Kanchanaburi event attracting nearly 60% of its participants from neighbouring countries such as Hong Kong, Malaysia, Singapore, as well as participants from even Europe. The 2006 augural event gained 46 team registrations, while the 2007 event grew to attract 80 teams and 120 teams in the 2008 event. Now 120 teams, of two participants in each team, will participate in the 2009 event.
There are three signature events in the 2009 series. The season kicks off with the River Kwai Trophy in Kanchanaburi, followed by the inaugural Chiang Mai Challenge, 10 May and the second Bangkok Challenge, hosted in Nong Chok district, on the outskirts of the capital, this November.
For more information, visit www.riverkwaitrophy.com

Honda LPGA Thailand 2009

Honda LPGA Thailand 2009Date : February 26 – March 1, 2009 Venie : Pattaya’s Siam Country Club, Chon Buri
Following the successes of the Honda LPGA Thailand 2006 and 2007, Mr. Kenji Otaka, President of Honda Automobile (Thailand) Ltd. announces Honda’s continued support of the Honda LPGA Thailand 2009 “Since its inauguration in 2006, the Honda LPGA Thailand has now become one of the highlights in the LPGA Tournament, and forms an integral part of the LPGA calendar. The tournament was a huge success last year which attracted more than 25,000 spectators at the golf course and secured the participation of world-class LPGA golfers.”
It is indeed an honour for Honda, in its capacity as title sponsor, to team up with our partners in organizing this Honda LPGA Thailand 2009 which will be held at Siam Country Club, Pattaya. For fans and enthusiasts, they will be treated to four days of world-class golf, watching their favourite players in action as they attempt to beat their personal best scores to win the top cash prize from US$ 1.45 million prize purse.
As well as thrilling the golf fans with a keenly fought contest, the tournament allows them to see top-ranked professionals of the Ladies Professional Golf Association competing this year. Honda is delighted to confirm the participation of the world’s leading female golfers, Ms. Lorena Ochoa, and Ms. Paula Creamer, who will both take part in next year’s exciting tournament. The Honda LPGA 2009 will be spiced up with an additional Hole-in-one prize of the new Honda Accord 2.4 EL valued at 1.5 million baht.
The player field of Honda LPGA Thailand 2009 will comprise of 50 leading LPGA Tour players and 10 sponsor invites, competing for a purse of US$1.45 million over 72 holes stroke play with no cut in the field. The strong player field of Honda LPGA Thailand 2009 will ensure the Thailand crowds experience the most exciting actions at Pattaya in the weekend of February 26 to March 1, 2009.
For More InformationTAT Pattaya Office Tel. 66 (0) 3842 8750, 66 (0) 3842 7667http://www.lpgathailand.com