WITH the two coastlines stretching for hundreds of miles and some of the finest beaches to be found anywhere in Southeast Asia Thailand has become a major travel destination for lovers of all kinds of water sports. A number of excellent resorts offer a full range of equipment at reasonable rates for anyone who wants to spend a holiday exploring the pleasures of deep-sea fishing, windsurfing, water skiing , parasailine, scuba diving, or swimming in crystal-clear waters.
The earliest water-sport centre and still one of the most popular is Pattaya on the Gulf of Thailand. just two hours' drive from Bangkok which has a wide variety of ccommodations to meet almost any traveling budget. The main beach is located on a scenic bay. but facilities are available down the coastline for some 30 miles and there are also more than 30 picturesque off-shore islands with a wealth of coral and many types of tropical fish.

The best known centre for deep-sea fishing in the Pattaya area is Bang Saray from which it is possible to charter boats and go in search of marlin king mackerel, sharks and barracuda.
Scuha divers can organize daily trips from the resort to the off-shore islands of Ko Lan Ko Sak and Ko Krok all of which take only 45 minutes to reach; interesting coral formations and colorful fish are visible for up to 30 metres depending on the season in warm waters ranging in depth from 3 to 25 metres.
Many of Pattaya's diving schools have personnel trained by the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) or by the National Association of Underwater Instructors (PADI), plus all kinds of equipment for hire. Among the languages spoken in these schools are English, German, Dutch, French and Japanese .
The other major water-sport centre is the southern island of Phuket on the Andaman Sea. Here on the west coast there are more than 14 magnificent white-sand beaches, all with warm clear waters as well as a Large number of nearby islands that hosts diving conditions to rival the best in the world. Most of the beaches have equipment for diving windsurfing, and other sports for rent.
The majority of diving destinations close to Phuket are located in Phang Nga Bay east of the island. The spectacular Phi Phi Islands near Phuket are also popular sites. True enthusiasts also hire larger boats excursions to the largely uninhabited Similan Islands. 80 kilometres northwest of Phuket. which has clear waters similar to those found in the Maldives. the Caribbean and the Great Barrier Reef of Australlia.
Contact TAT for a list of selected diving metres and schools.

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  Synopsis
Thailand Tourism Festival 2008 aims to promote tourism in Thailand as well as to show the uniqueness of Thai arts, culture and tradition. The event consists of exhibitions, sales booths, activities and performances to reach out to every group of potential tourists.
Principle
Promoting the tourism industry in Thailand is an important mission for Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) especially that of encouraging Thai people to travel domestically.
TAT puts an emphasis on domestic projects in order to achieve the balance in tourism in two dimensions. First, the societal dimension focusing on preservation of the environment and culture in travel destinations. Second, the economic dimension focusing on distributing tourism industry income to other parts of the country and creating money supply within the country.

In order to achieve this goal, TAT organizes the Thailand Tourism Festival 2007, which is another project our organization has been intent on supporting. Its aim is to express the cultures and traditions of each region, stimulate domestic tourism and present the progress of Thai tourism industry in the forms of various travel activities which are scenic and attractive. In addition, the festival brings together quality tourism products and services, which would inspire visitors to travel to these travel destinations.

Objectives
1. To show the unique culture and traditions of Thailand, to instill pride in the nation and to encourage tourism, a vital part of life and learning.
2. To show the potential of tourism in Thailand which is has always been progressing and has now reached an international standard.
3. To promote as well as increase tourist destinations in a larger circle, to reach both big and small cities. To encourage more money supply in the economic system and distribute income to every region.
4. To encourage the tourism industry to share their knowledge and create an understanding of the impact of tourism on Thailand, as well as to promote TAT’s campaigns and programs.

Target Groups
Every group of tourists, as well as government and private sectors.

Concept and Form of Event
This festival focuses on shows depicting Thai culture, traditions and uniqueness which demonstrate the progress of tourism in Thailand. This event includes products and services associated with tourism and also a variety of tourism activities such as Cultural and Community Life Tourism, Ecotourism, Adventure Tourism, Health Tourism and Tourism Along His Majesty The King’s Teachings. There is also a main stage for cultural performances from each region and from neighboring countries as well as exhibitions from the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s projects and associated government projects and an academic talk on tourism.
The venue is divided into:
1. Booths for tourism-related business owners and SMEs as well as government sectors and organizations associated to tourism. Products and services, travel agents, airlines, hotels, resorts, arts and crafts from everywhere in the country can also be found here as well.
2. TAT’s section for tourism activities
Cultural and Community Life Tourism divides its space into 3 parts:
- “Culture and Lifestyle In The Golden Land” comprising of exhibitions and folk lifestyles on show.
- “A Thousand and One Things Thai” comprising of products from each community which reflects their culture and lifestyle.
- “Markets of the 4 Regions” is a mock-up of Thai markets and floating markets
Adventure Tourism: Adventurous activities in Thailand on show
Ecotourism: Demonstrations and activities to show that ecotourism can help reduce greenhouse gases and preserve nature comprising of:
- Mock-ups of ecotourism destinations such as forests, waterfalls and rivers with the use of technology and multimedia.
- Award-winning business owners’ environmental projects.
Health Tourism with activities such as:
- Six Sense: Demonstrations of Thai massages in various styles
- Health Check-up: Offers check-up services from hospitals and modern treatments
- Wellness Package Promotion: Health tourism from the 4 regions
Products and Services: Demonstrations of products and services from award-winning communities
Crafts and Souvenirs: See and enjoy shopping for the best arts and crafts and also join in activities such as:
- Auction for award-winning crafts from all over Thailand
- An exhibition of the details of crafts and where they were made
- Crafts games and prizes
Tourism Seminar led by experienced speakers from TAT’s marketing division and famous lecturers with a variety of interesting topics.
Activities on the Main Stage
- A spectacular cultural parade from every region every day throughout the event from 10 am to 9 pm such as dances from the College of Dramatic Arts in every
region (13 schools in all), dances from China,Vietnam, Myanmar, fashion shows and games
- Thai classical mask performances
Exhibitions on a variety of topics
- An exhibition of old photographs depicting the history of TAT and TAT in each campaign in the past
- “48 Best Travel Destinations in Thailand” Exhibition
- “Travel the Thai Way: Reduce Global Warming” Exhibition
- Screenings of Thai travel films from every province, all day every day throughout the event
Communication Technology for Tourism
- Using online media to promote tourism
- Encourage online community participation to develop tourism in Thailand

Time and Venue
5-8 June 2007, Challenger Hall, Impact, Muangthong Thani

Organization Responsible
North Eastern Region Division, Tourism Authority of Thailand

Results
1. A money supply of more than 100 million baht in the festival.
2. A money supply of more than 150 million baht in the economic system, both directly and indirectly due to this festival.
3. At least 150,000 people participating at the festival
4. At least 250 business owners in Thailand, tourism-related businesses, clubs, associations and government organizations participating in the festival.

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Deriving from the Sansakrit language, the word “Songkran“ means to pass or to move into. In this context, the meaning implies to the passing and the moving of the sun, the moon and the other planets into one of the zodiacal orbit. And the Grand Songkran Festival which falls on the Aries indicates the new era of the Thai New Year. Owing to the ancient Indian belief, the Grand Songkran Festival is most appropriate to be the Thai New Year due to the timing of the best season which is known as the spring of India which comes right after the cold season of winter. Also, there are other aspects supporting this belief such as the blooming flowers, the fresh atmosphere of the nature and the livelihood of all the living creatures.

Date 13 – 15 April 2008

Venue
Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Historical Park, Wihan Phramongkhon Bophit, and around the island city, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya
Activities
Making merit to the monks, releasing of birds and fish, paying homage to the elderly.

  
 Hi-Light

13 April 2008

06.00 hrs.
Making merit to the monks at the front of Wihan Phramongkhon Bophit

14.00 hrs.
The grand procession of the Songkran tradition, enjoying splashing water with elephants at the old city.

Further Information
Education Division, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Municipality.
Tel. 0 3525 2168
TAT Central Region Office : Region 6 (Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya),
Tel. 0 3524 6076-7, 0 3532 2730-1

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Date : 8 - 9  March, 2008
Venue : Rama VI camp, Cha - Am , Phetchaburi
Hi-light :
1. Thai Kites form 4 Regions, Kites from Rattanakosin Era
2. Chula and Pak - Pao Kites competition, The World Largest Chula Kite Show
3. Fast Kite Flying and exhibition workshop International Kite Show
4. Kite Show from more 16 countries with Giant 3D flying : Maple Kite train, Sexy
    Legs Kite, Giant Gecko Kite, Giant Octopus Kite, Free Willy Whale Kite, Smiling 
    Sun Kite, Teddy Bear Kite, Mermaid Kite, Banner Art Kite etc.
5. Night Kite Show

6. Stunt Kite Show, Activities and Workshop
7. THEOS Satellite Kite, Tetrahedron Kite Show, Science for Kids Activities by 
    Geo - Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency 
    (public Organization) (GISTDA)
8. Kite Stall Contest, Arts Activities, Kite Workshop, etc.
9. Parachuting Show
10. Remote-controlled Small Airplane show
11. Balloon Show
12. Visit the summer seaside palace of H.M. the King Rama VI
13. OTOP Fair, Food Fair
14. Safe Energy Global Warming Caravan

Programs
Friday 7 th March, 2008
16.00 - 17.00 hrs.  Kite Show for Press
Sunday 9 th March, 2008
10.00 - 11.00 hrs.  Parachuting Show
11.00 - 18.30 hrs.  International Kite Show, Stunt Kite Show with Music, Fast Kite Show, Thai Kite Show and Chula, Pak - Pao Show,Activities by Geo - I nformatics and SpaceTechnology Development Agency (GISTDA),Exhibition etc.
18.30 - 20.30 hrs.  Night Kite Show, Balloon Show
For any Further information :
TAT (Head Office) Tel. 0 2250 5500 ext. 3477
TAT Central Region 2 (Cha AM) Tel. 0 3247 1005 - 6
TAT Call Center : 1672
E - Mail : eprodiv@tat,or.th
www.tourismthailand.org  

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Thailand's highly popular King's Cup Elephant Polo Tournament returns to the hills in 2008. Event organiser Anantara Resorts announced that the 2008 tournament would take place from March 31 to April 6 in the northern-most region of the country known as the Golden Triangle.
This popular event, ranked as the 6th largest event on the Thai tourism calendar had taken place in the royal seaside town of Hua Hin for 5 years before moving to the natural home of elephants in 2006. The tournament was introduced to Thailand in 2001 and is a charitable event that raises money for the country's National Elephant Institute in Lampang, northern Thailand.

In just six years the King's Cup Elephant Polo Tournament has gone from a small 2-day event with 6 teams into a week-long extravaganza, which in 2006 featured 12 teams from 3 continents encompassing 36 players from 15 countries.
Hosting the event in the far North ensures that the international spotlight is focused onto a very unique and special part of Thailand, showcasing the beauty of the natural landscape of the Golden Triangle region. Through its own Elephant Camp located within the grounds of the Anantara Resort Golden Triangle, the property's focus on the future of Thailand's pachyderm population which forms an integral part of the resort's experience offering. On an on-going basis, resident nature ranger, John Roberts, works closely with the Thai government's Elephant Conservation Centre in Lampang to develop Anantara's camp as an elephant sanctuary.
The Tourism Authority of Thailand supports the King's Cup Elephant Polo tournament and spectator entrance is free of charge.
To date the tournament has raised over US$140,000 for the National Elephant Institute, which provides medical care, sustenance, employment, welfare and mahout training to Thailand's elephant population. It is estimated that Thailand has around 2500 domesticated elephants and 1500 wild elephants. This is down from an elephant population of around 50,000 in 1950 and 100,000 in 1900.
The 2006 tournament featured the return of DHL Global Mail, led by Tom Claytor, a bush pilot who loves to play elephant polo, Margie McDougal, the most experienced female player in the world, Torquhil Ian Campbell, 13th Duke of Argyll, an experienced captain from ThisistheLife.com Scotland, All Blacks team headed by Justin Sampson (Sambo), Bernie Fraser, New Zealand's former world-ranking rugby player. The ultimate winners of the tournament were the ThisistheLife.com team - in what came to be a very close sudden-death shoot-out.
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, visit www.anantara.com
For all media enquiries, please contact:
Marion Walsh - Brand Director of Public Relations
Tel: + 66 (0) 2 725 6104
Email: mwalsh@anantara.com
Additional images are available upon request.
Source from www.thailandgrandfestival.com

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Si Phao Thai Si Sa Ket Festival
Date :15 - 17 March 2008
Place: Si sa Ket Province
This festival is held every March 15-17 at Somdet Phra Si Nakharin Park when the Lamduan flowers in the park are in full bloom. Shows include cultural performances by 4 tribes, which are Khmer, Suai, Lao, and Yo. There are shops selling handicrafts and a light-and-sound show about the city's

(Four Tribes Festival) is held every March 15-16 at Somdet Phra Sri Nakharin Park to promote the cultures and traditions of Si Sa Ket people. The festival features the floats exhibiting the costumes of four tribes (Khmer, Suai, Lao and Yo) and demonstrating the weaving of the Khmer. Further, it features a music contest in which musicians compete to be the best panpiper, the best harpist and the best “Morlum” group. Also, there is a light-and-sound show of the legend called “Sri Pluettesuan” about the city’s construction and the historical background of Sa Kamphaeng Yai (stone) castle. According to the legend, King Suriyaworaman traveled from Angkor Wat to Lopburi and then Pimay.
Somdet Phra Si Nakarin Park
The park is suited in the Si Sa Ket Agricultural College on Kasikam Road, Tambon Nong Khrok, Amphoe Muang. It is about 2 km. from the provincial hall.
Somdet Phra Sri Nakarin Park Si Sa Ket was built by the people of Si Sa Ket and the Ministry of Education to celebrate the 60th birthday anniversary of H.R.H. The Princess Mother. Approximately 237 rai (379,200 sq. meters) of the Si Sa Ket Agricultural College was used for the park which is a natural forest area and the only forest in Thailand that has a dense concentration of Lamduan flowers, giving the forest a pleasant aroma from February to April. The Lamduan flower is a plant of historical significance for Si Sa Ket as it gave the city its old name of "Si Nakhon Lamduan". When they blossom as the same time, he forest turns soft yellow and the Lamduan leaves impart a sweet smell that lasts for months. Thus, the Lamduan flower is regarded as the provincial flower if Si Sa Ket.

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Thai Airways International Public Company Limited has announced that it will start commercial flights, for the first time, to the popular southern resort island of Samui.

THAI’s Boeing 737-400 aircraft, capable of carrying 149 passengers (12 on Royal Silk Class / 137 on Economy Class) commenced the twice daily service on 15 February, 2008. The schedule is as follows.

 Flight          Destination           Departure Time         Arrival Time
TG285        Bangkok – Samui           07:45                      08:55
TG286        Samui - Bangkok            09:35                     10:45 
TG287        Bangkok – Samui           16:00                      17:10 
TG288        Samui - Bangkok            17:50                     19:00

According to Mr. Pandit Chanapai, THAI’s Executive Vice President, Commercial Department, said the new route supports the Thai government’s policy to promote inbound and domestic tourism, particularly to the southern and outer island resorts. THAI expects up to 70 percent of passengers into Samui on its flights to be from overseas. It fits with our policy of “First Flight, Full Flight, Every Flight.

“This is a breakthrough for THAI. Samui is a premier destination. We aim to make the route very competitive by marketing it to tourists from major European cities currently served by THAI connecting through Suvanarbhumi Airport. In addition, THAI’s policy is to expand its network and connections in order to provide seamless travel and convenience for its passengers,” Mr Chanapai said.

Special Royal Orchid Holidays [ROH] packages, including a wide range of packages and products, will be offered to travelers. These include selection of twenty hotels in Samui and two hotels in Pha Ngan plus 11 optional tours to the popular Ang Thong Marine National Park and Koh Tao.

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Now in its third year the Phuket International Blues Festival gets underway, 22 to 23 February, at the beachside Hilton Phuket Arcadia on the island’s west coast Karon Bay. It promises to be bigger than ever with at least 12 acts performing on stage during the two-night event. Now a firm fixture in Phuket’s annual entertainment calendar, the festival attracts top blues bands from around Thailand, while two popular bands from Australia and the US return once more. Bangkok’s popular blues bands take centre stage with performances from Cannonball, Georgia, Full House and Soi Dogs beating out the rhythm to a packed house of blues fans.

We have now added California blues diva Shari Puorto to the great line-up of the 2008 festival. Described as "Janis Joplin meets Bonnie Raitt", Shari and her excellent band will give you a night to remember!

This year the festival will be huge - no less than twelve acts will take to the stage during the two nights. Thailand's finest - Cannonball, Georgia, Full House and Soi Dogs from Bangkok; The Blues Machine from Pattaya; The Fabulous Hepcats from Koh Samui; Boy Blues Band from Chiang Mai as well as Phuket's Groove Doctors w/Jimmy Fame and Bonnie Anderson - together with one of Australia's top blues bands, Salty Dog, will rock the stage until Rich Harper closes the show Friday night and Shari Puorto on Saturday. Please see Schedules page for details and get ready for some smokin, hot Blues, R&B and Rock AND Roll!

The internationally renowned Rich Harper Band from Los Angeles which has gathered strong following in Thailand over the past two years will return in 2008, to headline Friday night with their usual fiery style, helping to make this year’s festival a blues/rock extravaganza.

For more information: 
Hotline: 086-682 2639
International: +66 86682 2639
e-mail: info@phuketbluesfestival.com
phuketmusic@yahoo.com

www.phuketbluesfestival.com

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Yasothon Bun Bangfai Rocket Festival
Date : 11 – 13 March 2008
Venue : Phaya Thaen Park, Mueang District, Yasothon
Annual ritual to ensure that the seasonal rains fall at the appropriate time in the planting cycle. In the process, Buddhist merit-making traditions are also observed and reinforced. The festival, which is held over a period of three days, strengthens community spirit. The first day known as “Wan Suk |Dip” features a ritual to play homage to Chao Pu, the spirit of the city pillar. The second day is the rocket procession day. Each is escorted by a colourful dance troupe. The rocket are finally launched on the third day in which various rockets and beauty contests are held. It is also a day for the ordination of novices with festive celebrations following merit-making rituals.

 

 

 

For this annual festival, villagers of the Northern fashion rockets of all kinds, some of them several metres long, the launching of which is believed to ensure plentiful rains in the coming rice-planting season. High-spirited revelry accompanies the event, with beauty parades, folk dancing, and stage shows.
Contact : TAT Northeastern Office : Region 2
Tel : 0 4524 3770-1
Yasothon Municipality Office
Tel : 0 4571 1397 Ext. : 112
Website : www.tat.or.th/festival

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1st – 3rd February 2008
Passport to Chiang Mai” PCM FAIR 2008

“Uniting all tourist NEEDS; Dinning, Traveling, Staying, Shopping and Spa”

The first collaboration of travel entrepreneurs

and exporters aims to provide a privilege for you with sincerity in the

Passport to Chiang Mai (PCM) Fair 2008

Between 1st – 3rd February 2008 at JJ Market Chiang Mai 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.

For more information please call 053 808770, 081 530 5185
source from http://www.jjchiangmai.com

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New Zealand is asking Thai authorities to explain why it has refused to let a group of Kayan "long-necked" refugees from Burma to leave Thailand to start new lives.

New Zealand agreed two years ago to accept two families of Kayan people - whose women traditionally wear a number of brass rings around their unnaturally long necks - as refugees, but Thai authorities will not give them exit visas.

According to a BBC report from the area in Mae Hong Son province on Wednesday, it is suspected that the families are being kept in Thailand because of the central role they play in the local tourism industry.

The BBC said three Kayan villages close to the Burmese border were a major lure for foreign tourists and quoted a spokeswoman for the United Nations High Commission for Refugees as saying, "It's absolutely a human zoo."

Kitty McKinsey said some 20,000 other Burmese refugees had recently been allowed to move to third countries, but Thailand was not letting a group of 20 Kayans who had been accepted as refugees by New Zealand and Finland leave.

"We don't understand why these 20 are not allowed to start new lives," she told the BBC. "The Thai authorities are treating them in a special way."

The BBC quoted a 23-year-old woman called Zember as saying the UNHCR told her family in 2005 that they had been accepted by New Zealand.

"I was so happy," she said. "They tell me a house is already waiting for us in New Zealand."

The New Zealand foreign ministry spokeswoman told Deutsche Presse-Agentur dpa: "we have raised our concerns with the Thai foreign ministry. We are waiting for a response." (dpa)
Source from bangkokpost.net

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Over the past eight years, Bumrungrad International has showcased some of Thailand’s best restaurants through its Great Chefs programme. For 2008, Bumrungrad International, in cooperation with the Royal Project Foundation, launched “Gourmets of the Garden”, a special promotion.

Participating chefs have been asked to design menus featuring healthy vegetables from The Royal Project Foundation in northern Thailand, source of the famous “The Royal Project” brand. These vegetables are nutritious and hygienic. They receive special care to retain their fresh flavor from farm to kitchen.

Under the Great Chefs programme, each restaurant works with hospital’s kitchen to design or adapt a healthy menu, which is then featured for a month. The special menus are available at no extra charge to patients, giving them the opportunity to sample dishes from some of Thailand’s best restaurants.

The Great Chefs programme is highlighted prominently throughout the hospital. It has also attracted local and international media attention. “This year we are privileged to have 12 premium hotels offering delicious and healthy dishes using healthy vegetables from The Royal Project to our patients and their guests. It is part of our commitment to serve our patients while promoting their health,” said Mr. Mack Banner, Bumrungrad International’s CEO.

Participants in the Great Chefs Programme

1. JW Marriott Bangkok - Executive Chef Dieter Ruckenbauer
2. Swissotel Le Concorde Bangkok - Chef Willment Leong
3. Grand Hyatt Erawan Bangkok - Chef Sarawut Im-sup
4. Banyan Tree Bangkok - Chef Vipawan Udomthanapipat
5. Grand Mercure Park Avenue - Chef Sakkajonh Thang-on
6. Sofitel Centara Grand Bangkok Hotel and Convention Centre (BCC) - Chef Jasvir Sanghera
7. Millennium Hilton Bangkok - Chef Supoj Suwanwong
8. Amari Boulevard - Chef Silvano Amolini
9. Courtyard by Marriott Bangkok - Executive Chef Sombat Lerkratanaphaisan
10. The Dusit Thani - Chef Thaneht Naovarat
11. InterContinental Bangkok - Chef Seksan Kerdyoo
12. Grand Sukhumvit by Sofitel - Executive Sous Chef Nitipat Panyajiravisit

The Royal Project Foundation
The Royal Hill-Tribes Development Programme, at present called The Royal Project, was inaugurated in 1969, following His Majesty the King's expressed desire to initiate the benefits of sedentary agricultural practice to the Hill-Tribes community with introduction of substituted cash crops that, in some cases, may fetch higher market prices than opium. During the early stages of the project, His Majesty encouraged the grafting of temperate climate peach scions to the stocks of local species of peach trees. The grafted trees bore fruits that were improved in texture and taste and were hardy enough to withstand long transportation journey to the markets. Other temperate climate fruit scions were also experimented with at different elevations at the Royal Project's Highland Agricultural Research Stations in various villages in Chiang Mai Province, Phui Village, Mae Chaem District, Khum Village, Fang District, Khun Wang Village, San Pa Tong District, Sam Mun Village, Chiang Dao District, and Mae Tho Village, Hot District.

Bumrungrad International
Bumrungrad International is Southeast Asia’s premier private hospital and a regional referral center for advanced care, offering 554 beds, 30 specialty centers, 940 medical specialists and over 800 nurses. It is Asia’s first JCI accredited hospital and serves more than one million patients yearly from 190 different countries.

Contact Information:
Bumrungrad International
Tel: +66 (0) 2667 1000
Fax: +66 (0) 2667 2525
E-mail: info@bumrungrad.com
Web site: www.bumrungrad.com

Source: Bumrungrad International release dated January 10, 2008

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Bor Sang, on highway 1006 heading east from Chiang Mai, appears to be a typical sleepy rural village, the kind the tour bus speeds by giving you just a fleeting glimpse of its two-storey wooden houses.  But hidden in the tiny lanes, villagers have perfected a craft that creates the country’s most famous umbrellas.

For more than 100 years, the village has been associated with the production of umbrellas made from Saa paper derived from mulberry tree bark.  According to local history, a monk travelled to neighbouring Myanmar, where he came across Saa paper umbrellas that offered protection against both the sun and rain. 

He returned with the production technique and introduced the umbrella to the elders of Bor Sang village, who added their own artistic skills to create a distinctive colourful, but very practical, umbrella. At first it was just a profitable hobby that supplemented the villagers’ earnings from the annual rice crop. However, with time production of the Saa paper umbrellas prospered, prompting villagers to establish a handicraft cooperative in 1941 that now organises the annual festival.

Using silk and cotton, weaved at neighbouring Sankampaeng, villagers eventually added a second line of umbrellas decorated with images of the north, its flowers and birds, all intricately hand-painted.
Today, Bor Sang village exports both Saa-paper and silk umbrellas.  They are seen at trade shows in a variety of sizes, from giant parasols that offer a shady canopy from the sun, to miniscule variations that adorn popular cocktail drinks.

 

To celebrate success the village hosts a three-day festival every January. Streets are illuminated by lanterns, while hundreds of umbrellas are hung from the rafters and beams of houses and shops.  Bands play, while villagers compete to design the year’s most attractive umbrella.  Concerts, a food festival and beauty contest all compete for the attention of the audience, a  mix of both tourists and residents, who gather here to celebrate Bor Sang’s innovative handicraft skills.

Throughout the year, tourists visit the village, a short 6 km drive from Chiang Mai, to buy umbrellas and study the process and skills that go into making a handicraft entirely from natural products.  But nothing quite compares with the buzz that permeates the village during this colourful three-day handicraft festival, every January. It is a scene that represents village hospitality and charm at its very best.
source from http://www.tourismthailand.org/

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Date: January 18-26, 2008
The ASEAN Tourism Forum 2008 (ATF 2008), the annual travel industry summit of the 10 member Association of Southeast Asian Nations, is to be held in Bangkok between 18-26 January, 2008.

The ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF) is one of the most significant annual tourism promotional events in Asia, and is hosted on a rotational basis among the ASEAN member countries. Thailand is honored to be playing host for the 2008 ATF exchange, which is the show's fifth time in Thailand since its establishment.

The fair is made up of numerous high-level events, including a meeting of ASEAN Tourism Ministers, a meeting of the ASEAN NTOs, as well as airline meetings, press briefings, a tourism conference, and the popular Travel Exchange (TRAVEX) trade fair.

Bearing the theme, "Synergy of ASEAN towards Dynamic Unity in Diversity," the annual gathering of high-level ASEAN tourism public and private sector officials, airlines, and hundreds of buyers of ASEAN tourism products is designed to showcase the best of ASEAN tourism products and services.

Mrs. Phornsiri Manoharn, TAT Governor said, “Thailand is proud to once again welcome all delegates to ATF 2008. We last hosted the ATF in 2000, the first one of the 21st century.

“By 2008, we expect that many of the growth-drivers, such as low-cost airlines, open skies, improved road and rail networks, will be in place”.

“Clearly the issues of the future will be managing the growth to come. This is going to be our biggest challenge and we expect the ATF 2008 to provide the industry with an appropriate forum to openly discuss these issues in pursuit of constructive, positive, and long-term solutions.”

Mrs Phornsiri said TAT is working with Thai Airways International, the ASEAN airlines, travel trade associations, and other public and private sector organizations to ensure the success of this event.

She said the delegates will also get to see many of the changes taking place in Thailand, such as the new niche market products called “Amazing Wonders of Thailand,” as well as the new Royal Initiative Discovery products highlighting the long-term value of His Majesty the King’s sufficiency economy concepts.

The official programme will begin on 18 January, 2008, with the meetings of the ASEAN Tourism Task Forces at Sofitel Central Hotel. The meetings of the ASEAN National Tourism Organizations (NTOs) will held on 19-20 January.

A half-day meeting of the NTOs of ASEAN, China, Japan and Korea (ASEAN+3) will be held on 20 January at the Sofitel Central Hotel. The ASEAN Tourism Ministers, Airlines, Hoteliers and Travel Agents will hold their respective meetings on 21 January, 2008.

The buyer-and-seller trade show, called TRAVEX, will be held between 22-25 January at the Challenger 2, Impact Exhibition and Convention Centre, the world’s largest column-free exhibition hall, Asia’s largest indoor exhibition centre and Thailand’s largest ballroom. About 400 sellers, 450 buyers, and 150 media are expected to attend.

Several complimentary pre- and post-tours are being organised by TAT together with Thai Airways and the private sector to take buyers and the media to various ASEAN destinations in line with the theme "Synergy of ASEAN Towards Dynamic Unity in Diversity."

Mrs Phornsiri said, “ASEAN member countries are making continuous improvements in our tourism products such as new destinations and facilities. These tours will help introduce these exciting developments.”

For more details and on-line registration, please check out www.atf2008thailand.com

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Date: November 28, 2007 - March 28, 2008
Place : Srisothorn Road, Chachoengsao provincial center, Chachoengsao

The World Sand Sculpture Festival - the world's largest indoor sand sculpture exhibition - is being held in Thailand for the first time.

The four-month long festival, which features 80 works of art created by over 70 highly talented sculptors from countries around the world, such as the Netherlands, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Ireland, the United States and Thailand, covers an area of 12 rai (1.92 hectares or 4.74 acres).
The exhibition is divided into three zones.

ZONE 1
The Royal Projects Zone
The sand sculptures in this zone depict themes related to Royal Projects initiated by His Majesty the King of Thailand and reflect the extraordinary achievements of His Majesty the King of Thailand during the 60 years of his glorious reign.
Among the fascinating works of art are sand sculptures representing the Chaipattana aerator, an award-winning invention patented by His Majesty the King; Bhumibol Dam, royal rainmaking, His Majesty's 'Micro Mod' sailing boat, a jazz band, Mae Fah Luang Gardens and Doi Tung Royal Villa, the first royal residence of Her Royal Highness Princess Srinagarindara, the Princess Mother, the late mother of His Majesty the King of Thailand. HRH the Princess Mother dedicated her life to the conduct of royally-sponsored developmental initiatives for the benefit of the country and its people and endeared herself to the Thai nation. Her contribution to humanity was recognised by UNESCO in its description of the Princess Mother as a "World Great Personality of the 20th Century".
ZONE 2
The Thai History and Thai Literature Zone
The collection of 11 sand sculptures on display in the tent draw their inspiration from Thai history and characters depicted in Thai literature. For example, the giant yaak or demons that stand guard in front of the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, Wat Sothorn Vararam Voraviharn temple - the sacred landmark of Chachoengsao province, Jatukarmramathep, King Naresuan the Great at war and a selection of characters from Thai literature.
ZONE 3
The International Sand Sculpture Zone
These masterpieces by sculptors representing 13 participating countries capture the magnificence of a selection of famous landmarks from around the world - France, the United Kingdom, the United States, Japan, China, Spain, Egypt and others. These include impressive sand sculptures of The Eiffel Tower accompanied by sculptures of French artists for which Paris is known; the Changing the Guards at Buckingham Palace and Big Ben in London, the Statue of Liberty in New York and the Manhattan skyline as a backdrop, Japan's Mount Fuji and geishas, The Great Wall of China embellished with a dragon.
In all, more than 40,000 tonnes of sand have been used to create these awe-inspiring masterpieces.
The World Sand Sculpture Festival is an established event that originated in Europe 14 years ago. Given the popularity and success of the exhibition in its early years, the festival has since been held in several European countries including France, Belgium, The Netherlands, Germany, the United Kingdom and Denmark.
Opening Hours:
Monday to Friday: 10.00 - 19.00
Saturday and Sunday: 09.00 - 20.00
Public holidays: 08.00 - 22.00
Admission Fee
80 baht for adults; 40 baht for children
Contact information:
Tel: (0) 3851 5120-1
Source from http://www.tat.or.th/

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New Product
PB AIR LAUNCHES NEW BANGKOK-MAE HONG SON SERVICE
1 December 2007 to 1 March 2008 onl

To meet peak season demand for travel to Mae Hong Son during Thailand’s cool season, PB Air will be launching a new Bangkok-Mae Hong Son service that will be offered every Tuesday and Saturday from 1 December 2007 to 1 March 2008 only.

Mae Hong Son, a remote picturesque town surrounded by mountainous terrain and scenic natural landscape, is ranked among Thailand's most popular holiday destinations for cool season travel for both Thai as well as foreign visitors.

This new Bangkok-Mae Hong Son service is a PB Air-Thai Airways International (THAI) code-sharing route and will be served by a 50-seater ERJ 145 aircraft.

Flights will depart from Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok at 12.40 and arrive at Mae Hong Son Airport at 14.10. The return flight to Bangkok departs Mae Hong Son at 14.45 and arrives at Suvarnabhumi Airport at 16.15.

The fare for a one-way ticket is 3,100 baht* and 5,800 baht* for a return trip ticket. (*the fare includes airport tax and other charges and fees)

Contact information:
PB Air
Tel: +66 (0) 2261 0222
Fax: +66 (0) 2261 0227
E-mail: sales@pbair.com
Web site: www.pbair.com

Source from http://www.tatnews.org

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Date December 1 – 8, 2007
Place koh Samui Surat thani

In his annual birthday address, His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej consistently highlights the importance of preserving the environment and urges responsible agencies to undertake efforts to keep the country clean and green and to make conservation efforts one of the priorities in the quest to achieve sustainable development.

Taking heed of this royal advice, the Koh Samui District Office and Koh Samui Municipality are leading efforts to clean up the tropical island paradise as a birthday gift to His Majesty the King on the auspicious occasion of His Majesty’s 80th birthday on 5 December 2007.

This initiative is being promoted under the ‘Keep Samui Clean Days’ campaign theme and also marks the start of Samui’s peak travel season. It also reflects efforts to keep the island resort, billed as ‘the Emerald of the Gulf of Thailand’, clean and pristine.

The Koh Samui District Office and Koh Samui Municipality is involving local members of the community and will be working hand-in-hand with other state agencies and private sector organizations.

Koh Samui authorities have pledged to make the ‘Keep Samui Clean’ theme a permanent element of the island’s development and management policy with efforts maintained beyond the official launch of the campaign during 1-8 December 2007.

‘Keep Samui Clean Days’
Activities

• 7 December – clean up of Thong Yaang Beach (Haat Thong Yang), Lipa Noi district
• 8 December – clean up of Taling Ngam Beach, Taling Ngam district

Contact information:
TAT Southern Office – Region 5
Tel: +66 (0) 7728 8818-9
Fax: +66 (0) 7728 2828
E-mail: tatsurat@tat.or.th

Information form www.tatnews.org

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Mr. Jaturaporn Na Nakorn, the deputy Governor of Sport Authority of Thailand (SAT) and Sport Promotion Bureau, presided over the 3rd working group meeting of the opening ceremony of His Majesty the King's 80th Birthday Anniversary Stadium (5th December 2007) for 2007, with Mr. Phongsiri Kusum, the deputy Governor of Nakhon Ratchasima, as the Advisor of working group, joined the meeting, at Meeting Room, Suranaree Foundation, City Hall, Nakhon Ratchasima province on November 21 2007.

        The meeting discussed on the detail of opening ceremony�s schedule of His Majesty the King's 80th Birthday Anniversary Stadium (5th December 2007) and approved to organize the opening ceremony on December 6 2007, on 05.15 pm., which the Sport Authority of Thailand was inform to His Majesty the King to open the His Majesty the King's 80th Birthday Anniversary Stadium (5th December 2007).
        At 05.45 pm. to 08.00 pm., starting the opening ceremony of the 24th SEA Games 2007, which have 8 performances consist of Amazing Royal Merit, Amazing Northeast, Amazing Korat, Amazing Sport Aspiration, Amazing Torch Light (light the torch pot), Amazing Spirit, Amazing Friendship and Amazing Capital.
       About His Majesty the King's 80th Birthday Anniversary Stadium (5th December 2007), the Sport Authority of Thailand was inform to His Majesty the King to assigned the name of stadium from the 333th Year Anniversary of Main City, Nakhon Ratchasima, to be the His Majesty the King's 80th Birthday Anniversary Stadium (5th December 2007) together with the brand of the Celebration of His Majesty the King�s Birthday Anniversary on December 5 2007, to decorate on the label of stadium.

Source from Thai Post Newspaper Date: November 22, 2007.
More Informaiton about Seagame 2007 in Korat Thailand please visit to www.2007seagames.com

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Japan Food Fair 2007: Mega Food Festival in Thailand Original taste of Japanese food, unseen products from agriculture and fisheries
December 6-9, 2007

JETRO Bangkok has planned to launch “Japan Food Fair 2007” for the third year during December 6-9, 2007 with a wide range of top quality Japanese agriculture and fishery products and original Japanese food to be presented by more than 70 booths at Bangkok Convention Center, Central World Plaza.

The Fair will be organized under the concept: Discover Real Japanese Cuisine: The Gift of Nature. Thais who love Japanese food and food business operators will have a chance to experience the quality of authentic Japanese cuisines among more than 70 booths whose best delicious selections importantly include, for example, low-calorie seafood, famous ingredients, and fresh fruits directly imported from Japan.

The Fair is expected to attract over 20,000 visitors from Thailand and neighboring countries. It will also serve as a significant forum for business talks and information exchange on a variety of agricultural and fisheries products.

Mr. Yoichi Kato, President of Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO), said the increasing popularity of Japanese food among Thais and the trend for healthy food have convinced the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries of Japan to introduce Japan Food Fair 2007 for the third time in Thailand.

“It’s very much indeed an auspicious occasion to hold the event this year as part of the celebration of the 120th Anniversary of Japan-Thailand Relations It’s a mega food fair to display food and raw materials in Thailand for businessmen in the Japanese food industry and Japanese food lovers. Our target groups are those business operators in Thailand and from adjacent countries,” he said.

JETRO operates the Fair, which is fully funded and presented by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries of Japan. Among 52 companies participating in the Fair, 42 companies are from Japan and 10 are companies in Thailand with either Thai and Japanese partnership and purely owned by Thais.

The Fair also features “Supermarket Zone” for the visitors to enjoy shopping with varieties of fruits, vegetables, and products from fisheries from Japan at more reasonable prices. The visitors can also enjoy activities such as Japanese food shows from Japanese chefs who will demonstrate original styles, the display of products from agricultural and fisheries industries. Many of them have neither been imported to Thailand nor displayed nor for sale in Thailand, such as Unshuu Mandarin oranges. The orange will be introduced for the first time in Thailand. Importantly, all of them are directly imported from Japan.

Mr. Kato added, “Japan Food Fair is held in nine cities in seven countries around the world. But the Japan Food Fair in Thailand is the most important since it was invested by 32 million yen or 8.0 million baht.

The market for Japanese food in Thailand has high growth potential since Thai consumers are interested in Japanese agricultural and marine products. In addition, both countries have long-term relationship. Moreover, Thai consumers love dining at Japanese restaurants. The taste of Japanese food is favored by Thai comparing with other foreign cuisines. Also, Japanese food is good for health because they are low in calories. Thai people really love Japanese food at heart.

Mr. Seiji Tazo, Director of JETRO Trade Promotion, said there are 750 Japanese restaurants in Thailand. This Year 2007, it is expected that Japan Food Fair will draw more than 20,000 visitors and bring up 2,500 business talks and 480 business deals. In 2004, there were more than 3,900 business talks and 413 business deals were concluded. In 2005, since the number of days was reduced from five to four, it brought more than 2,500 business talks and 480 business deals were reached.

JETRO has expected the increase in trade talks between Thailand and Japan and planned to help the operators of Japanese restaurants in Thailand to discover more choices of raw material products under the concept “Discover Real Japanese Cuisine: The Gift of Nature”.

December 6-7, 2007: 10.00-18.00: Business Days

December 8, 2007: 11.00-19.00: Public Days

December 9, 2007: 11.00-18.00 Public Days

For more information: www.japanfoodfair.com.
source http://www.thailand4.com

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November 24 - December 7, 2005
Kanchanaburi , Thailand

Each year in late November to early December, the world famous River Kwae 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.

Contact information:
TAT Central Office - Region 1
Tel: +66 (0) 3451 1200, (0) 3451 2500
Fax: +66 (0) 3451 1200
E-mail: tatkan@tat.or.th

Contact:
Tourism Authority of Thailand
Email: info@tat.or.th
Website: www.tat.or.th
Tel: +66 (0) 2250 5500 (120 automatic lines)
Fax: +66 (0) 2250 5511 (two automatic lines)

FOR EVENT INFORMATION,
please call 1672.
Address:
1600 Petchaburi Road, Makkasan, Rajatevee
Bangkok 10400
Thailand

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