Carved in wax

The month-long festive event, which this year is on the theme “Isaan Art and Culture”, brings the finest arts of Isaan to Ubon Ratchathani’s public park. The international wax carving competition also adds a foreign shade to the local colour palette, with many international artists showing off their artistic skills. The highlight is on July 22, when more than 100,000 devotees will join a procession of carved candles on floats. A sightseeing tour of the eight candle-making communities is a must.

 

Tropical with the luxury touch

Vana Belle on Koh Samui launches its new Ocean View Pool Suites and Tropical Pool Villas for the perfect romantic escape in a tropical paradise. These exquisite Suites and Villas cultivate elegant island living with a contemporary design that seamlessly integrates the indoors and outdoors along with unrivalled services and amenities, including Koh Samui’s only personal butler service. Visit www.LuxuryCollection.com/vanabelle.

 

Salute to the South

Asiatique the Riverfront on the banks of the Chao Phraya River is hosting the Halal & Southern Thai Food Fest 2013 from Monday through July 22. The festival promises gourmets the finest Southern Muslim dishes prepared by the best 50 shops. They include the Lod Chong Paeng Sod shop located in front of the Songkhla Mosque, the Khao Yum Saiburi shop from Pattani and the Mariam shop famed for its fried beef and baked liver. The festival will also feature popular performances from the South, including Likay Hulu dance and Langkawi singing. Visit www.AsiatiqueThailand.com.

 

Running for a cause

The Pattaya Marathon returns to the beach city on July 21. Also known as the King’s Cup marathon, this annual event now attracts athletes from all over the world. Activities held during the weekend-long event include a number of racing competitions, among them wheelchair races, a quarter marathon, a half marathon and a full-length marathon. Find out more at (038) 253 129 or visit www.Pattaya-Marathon.com.