A taste of the past

An old-fashioned Lanna marketplace, local dishes, Burmese art in the temple and folk music and dance are among the highlights, of the cultural fair. Located in Muang Phrae district, the temple is noted for fine woodwork as well as crafted ivory recounting the tales of Jataka. For more information, call TAT (Phrae Office) at (054) 521 118 or (054) 521 127.

 

An investment in Asia

Bangkok will host Asia Pacific Hotel Investment Conference at Dusit Thani Bangkok on May 15-16. The two-day conference is expected to attract hospitality players and investment executives from throughout the region with than 200 delegates representing more than 100 hospitality and luxury companies registered to attend. They include some of the region's leading hotel owners, investors, operators, developers, policymakers, designers, architects and master planners. Thailand’s Minister of Tourism and Sports, Somsak Pureesrisak, will deliver the welcome address on the opening day.

 

Sheets to the wind

The tropical paradise of Samui Island has more to offer than coconut and beaches. From May 25 to June 1, the southern island will host Samui Regatta 2013 at Chaweng Beach. One of Asia’s biggest regattas and the final of the Asian Yachting Grand Prix, this event has grown to attract the best yachts in Asia and a large spectator following who come for great sailing, great parties and many other events that occur during one incredible week each year. Visit www.SamuiRegatta.ning.com.

 

Fire in the sky

You don’t need NASA to launch a rocket into the sky. This Saturday and Sunday, some 100 handmade rockets, or bung fai, will be fired skywards over the rice paddies of Yasothon in northeastern Thailand. The annual festival is held to celebrate and encourage the coming rains. The festival usually draws upwards of 50,000 spectators for the rocket competition, the crazy mud dances and the many fun activities.