JUNE 1 - JULY 31, 2008
BLOOMING KRACHIAO FLOWER FESTIVAL/
The Siam Tulip Festival of Chaiyaphum
Pa Hin Ngam National Park
Ban Rai district and Thep Sathit sub-district, Chaiyaphum province

The unique geographical landscape of Chaiyaphum Province in the northeast of Thailand gives rise to a range of natural attractions of exceptional beauty. Of these, the fields of pinkish-purple Siam Tulip, or "Dok Krachiao", come in to full bloom in the early part of the rainy season from June to August.

Also commonly called 'patumma', 'bua sawan' (heaven lotus), or 'bua bok' (the land lotus), the Siam Tulip is a member of the ginger genera — Curcuma or Zingiberaceae.

Contact information:
TAT Northeastern Office - Region 1
Tel: +66 (0) 4421 3666, (0) 4421 3030
Fax: +66 (0) 4421 3667
E-mail: tatsima@tat.or.th

JUNE 1 – AUGUST 31, 2008
AMAZING THAILAND GRAND SALE 2008
Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Pattaya, Phuket and Hat Yai

The Amazing Thailand Grand Sale, Thailand's annual three-month shopping extravaganza offers world-class shopping, a diverse selection of quality products and services, special discounts of 10 - 70 per cent and promotional offers being extended by participating department stores, shopping complexes and retail outlets along designated ‘Shopping Streets’ in Bangkok and the popular tourist destinations of Chiang Mai, Pattaya, Phuket and Hat Yai.

The ‘Shopping Streets’ provide a convenient opportunity to spot great buys in an exotic range of unique crafts and cottage industry products, including exquisitely hand-crafted decorative items for home and living and fashion accessories, available in the traditional as well as contemporary design.

In addition to discount offers of up to 70 per cent from participating establishments, check out the special promotions offered by retail and service outlets displaying the ‘Thailand Grand Sale’ decal. These include free gifts, vouchers and lucky draw prizes.

To take advantage of these promotional offers, simply look out for the "Amazing Thailand Grand Sale" decal on display at participating outlets.

The origins of the Phi Ta Khon Festival can be found in the tale of Lord Buddha's last great incarnation before attaining Enlightenment. In Buddhist accounts, it is said that when Prince Vessandara, the Buddha's penultimate incarnation, returned to his city, it was such a joyous occasion that the village spirits came forth to join the welcoming parade. This very colourful and vibrant Phi Ta Khon procession is the central focus of the celebrations.

In a lively re-enactment of the tale, the young men of the community dress up as "spirits" wearing long trailing costumes made from colourful strips of cloth sewn together.

Contact information:
LOEI TOURISM CO-ORDINATOR CENTER
Tel: +66 (0) 4281 2812, (0) 4281 1405
Fax: +66 (0) 4281 1480

TAT Northern Region Office: Area 5
Tel: +66 (0) 4232 5406-7
Fax: +66 (0) 4232 5408
E-mail: tatudon@tat.or.th

JULY 16 - 18, 2008
TAK BAT DOK MAI FESTIVAL
Wat Phra Phutthabat Ratchaworamahawihan, Amphoe Phra Phutthabat, Saraburi

The Tak Bat Dok Mai floral offering merit-making ritual is unique to Saraburi province. This ritual stands out from the merit-making activities conducted in the other parts of Thailand because in addition to the offerings of cooked rice, food, incense, candles and other conventional sacred items, the Tak Bat Dok Mai ritual includes offerings of Dok Khao Phansa flowers that only come into bloom during the Buddhist Lent, hence the origin of its name. Some villagers call the flower Dok Yung Thong (golden peacock) or Dok Hong Thong (golden swan flower).

JULY 20, 2008
PATTAYA INTERNATIONAL MARATHON

As a tourism centre for the Thailand's eastern seaboard and one of the region's premier beach resorts well-served by an extensive range of facilities of international standards, Pattaya is a complete destination with land and marine attractions within easy access.

Pattaya, home to the "Pattaya Marathon", an annual international event which features a marathon, Half-Marathon, and a 10.550 km. Quarter Marathon offers a picturesque running route. The event attracts participation from world-class runners and locals.

TAT Central Region Office - Region 3 (Chon Buri)
Tel: +66 (0) 3842 7667, (0) 3842 8750
Fax: +66 (0) 3842 9113
E-mail: tatchon@tat.or.th

JULY 23 - 27, 2008
SIX SENSES PHUKET RACEWEEK BREAKS NEW GROUND
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SIX SENSES PHUKET RACEWEEK - THE 'GREEN SEASON' OPPORTUNITY
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