Phuket's spiritual renewal
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Religious adherents at the Phuket Vegetarian Festival have to follow a strict regime that involves wearing white clothing and doing without meat, alcohol and nicotine.
More extreme expressions of faith involve the piercing of flesh with everything from umbrellas to tyre spanners. The event runs from October 5 to 13 on the island resort of Phuket for the purpose of cleansing and renewing the body and soul. The festival and its accompanying sacred rituals also involve processions, fireworks and music.
It’s all about travel
Thailand International Travel Fair gets underway tomorrow at Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre in Bangkok. Running through Sunday, this year’s edition will highlight the overseas destinations including Bhutan, Japan and Taiwan. The event bring together travel agents, hotel operators and airlines, all of them offering a range of promotions. Cultural shows and tourism seminars are also on the programme.
Hawks in a flutter
Thailand’s hawk watching season is held in September to October, the months when thousands of hawks migrate from Russia and China to Thailand’s Andaman coastline. The place to spot the hawk is Khao Radar – the hilltop in Prachuap Khiri Khan’s Bang Saphan Noi district. Armed with binoculars, you will be able to watch the sought-after birds hovering in the sky. To welcome the birds, the southern province of Prachuap Khiri Khan is hosting a hawk exhibition for weekenders. Call the local tourism office at (032) 513 854.
Marathons on two wheels
Bikers can pump up their adrenaline on August 24 and 25 in a series of races being organised at Bhumibol Dam. This event has something for everyone. Bikers can choose to join one of the six categories, which include long distance, family, tour biking and cross-country. Other activities include sightseeing, shopping, youth activities for environmental awareness and folk music by Bhumibol Dam youth club. Call the TAT Tak office at (055) 514 341-3.
