After the crazy times of Songkran in Chiang Mai, one might think that Thailand lulls itself into a few months of relative calm. That is not the case for the month of May, as several events take place, and Visaka Bucha which begins in early June should be on the radar screen of anyone in Thailand.
Trail running usually involves moving through different types of terrain – it is a cross between hiking and traditional running. These are often routes that would be inaccessible by car and can include running through jungle, up and down hills, and along narrow hiking paths. In recent years there has been a huge increase in the number of people around the world taking up this sport – 4.8 million in the US alone. It is far more challenging than normal road running because the participant needs to be able to navigate many different types of obstacle. It can also require a higher degree of physical fitness than other forms of running, but it is gentler on the joints and bones in the body. As an added challenge there are many individuals who prefer to run trails where wearing a backpack. As well as being popular in other parts of the world there is a growing appetite for trail running in Thailand.
Visitors to Phuket will usually find that they have no problem surviving in the English language. Most of the locals who have any dealings with foreigners will at least be able to speak some English. There is no urgent need for visitors to Phuket to learn Thai, but it is something that is highly recommended. It will increase their appreciation of the local culture and longer term visitors will find that it makes their life much easier.
If people are looking for things to do in Phuket then they might want to consider a trip to the movies. Phuket is home to a couple of world class movie theatres. It is possible to go to see locally made movies or international blockbusters. Many of the Thai films will also come with English subtitles and are well worth seeing.
Phuket Fantasea really does offer something unique to visitors to the island. It is the first Thai cultural theme park in the world, and it includes an impressive number activities and shows. Those who attend Phuket Fantasea are almost guaranteed a memorable time. The park covers 140 acres and it took 3 years to build. It is divided into 3 sections; Las Vegas type show, restaurant area, and festival village. Since opening in 1988 Phuket Fantasea has become the island’s number one tourist attraction.
One of the great things about visiting Thailand is the opportunity to sample authentic local food. The fact that people from all the country have set up home in Phuket means that all the different varieties of local cuisine can be enjoyed on the island. Most western countries now have plenty of restaurants that claim to offer Thai food, but these tend to be a poor imitation of the real thing. Not only can visitors to Phuket get the chance to enjoy these delicious dishes, but they can also learn how to make them. In fact Thai cooking classes have become one of the most popular activities among visitors to the island.
Spending time on the beautiful Phuket beaches is a wonderful way to relax and unwind. With all the available beach activities though, it is easy to work up a hunger. Most of the popular beaches on the island will have plenty of Thai vendors selling food items but sometimes people can get a hankering for western style food. The Malisa and Me mobile café is an attempt to meet this demand. Not only do they sell delicious toasted sandwiches but also high quality iced coffees.
Phuket has a much hotter climate than most foreign visitors are used to. This is because Thailand is situated in the planet’s tropical zone. It experiences warm to hot weather all year round, and at times a great deal of moisture. If people are unfamiliar with dealing with a tropical climate it can mean that they struggle to get comfortable when out in it. There is also the risk that their inability to stay cool could put their health in danger.
Most people will associate Phuket with beautiful beaches and exotic culture. In recent years there has been a growing appreciation of the island as a fitness destination. This is partly due to the fact that there are so many popular Muay Thai camps on the island that have attracted foreigners who wish to learn this art. There are also many new gyms and health spas popping up everywhere. Those who have been visiting Phuket for a few years are almost certain to have noticed an increase in the number of people out running or riding a bike. It really does seem like the island is turning into one huge exotic fitness park. Another factor that is helping to create this image of Phuket as a fitness destination is the Laguna Phuket International Marathon. This has really helped to put Thailand on the map where running is concerned.
There are several events this Friday April 6th, and over the weekend, April 7-8th, 2012. Friday is Chakri Day; there will be elections in Phuket and Chiang Mai and other towns and provinces; and Monday April 9th will be the royal cremation ceremony of HRH Princess Bejaratana Rajasud.
The 6th of April is Chakri Day in Thailand. It is a celebration of the House of Chakri from which the current royal family originates. The first of the Chakri dynasty was Rama I (Chao Phraya Chakri Buddha Yodfa Chulaloke) who became king of Siam on the 6th of April 1782. The current king of Thailand is Rama IX (King Bhumibol Adulyadej the Great) who has reigned in Thailand since 1946.
Chakri day commemorates the coronation of Rama I, but it is also to recognize the contributions of all the kings in this dynasty. It is usual for the people of Thailand to celebrate this day by expressing their thanks to the kings of the Chakri family. They often do this by putting flowers on statues of Rama I. The King also performs a special ceremony to pay respects to his ancestor. Government offices, some schools, and banks close, but most other businesses open as usual on this day.
There will be local elections in many provinces in Thailand on the 7th April 2012 – including tourist areas such as Phuket and Chiang Mai. This means that there will be an alcohol ban over the weekend. In some places this will start from 6pm on Friday the 6th. Bars are also likely to be closed from the 8th until the 10th of April because of the Royal cremation on the 9th. This means that there will be no alcohol sold for a full 4 days in most places.
The Royal Cremation for HRH Princess Bejaratana Rajasud will take place on the 9th of April 2012. The ceremony will take place in the grounds of Sanam Luang. Those who wish to give their respects will be able to offer scented flowers at a number of locations around Bangkok.
HRH Princess Bejaratana Rajasud was the first cousin of King Bhumibol Adulyadej, and she was the only child of Rama VI (King Vajiravudh). She proved to be a devoted princess who had a particular interest in public health, education, and Buddhism. She was particularly gifted at mathematics. She died on the 27th July 2011 aged 85 years of age.
Songkran the Water Festival (sometimes called the Thai New Year) is rapidly approaching, and those who are lucky enough to be in Thailand can look forward to plenty of fun. Songkran is the water festival because the favorite activity at this time of year is throwing water (or at least gently pouring it on elders and Buddha figures). Those visitors who have never been involved in a Thai water fight are in for a real treat. Even those individuals who would normally not enjoy such frolicking appreciate it because the cool water is a blessing in the heat.
For most Thai people this is a time of year to be with family. The villages of rural Thailand see their populations increase as people return home for the holiday. It is a time to party but it is also an occasion to visit the local temples where they cleanse the Buddhist statues. Songkran is a time for renewal. The whole of Thailand celebrates this festival but it is claimed that the biggest celebrations occur in Chiang Mai. Songkran officially takes place between the 13th and 15th of April, but in some parts of the country it will include days prior to and after this date. Songkran is a time when traffic accidents are high so people need to drive carefully.
