Happening events in Thailand!

The spirited and lively cities of Thailand have played host to diverse kinds of events every year and this time too it’s no different. The coming months of the year will see Thailand hosting an array of shows and events which have been long awaited by one and all throughout the year!

With events like the Marathon. Sea food festivals and candle carving competitions, there is much more than you could have expected out of the people of Thailand! In fact, at some of the world famous shows, people from all across the globe are enthusiastic to join in.

The “Amazing Thailand Grand Sale 2008” which began on the 1st of june, will go on till the 31st of august 2008. here tourists will enjoy an alluring discount of 5-70% in selected outlets across the country. Other attractions include a chance to win an all expense paid holiday in Thailand, if you happen to spend 500bahts or more with your Visa card!

Starting on the 15th of june,2008 the Laguna Phuket International Marathon 2008, which is expected to attract more than 1500 particapants from across 40 countries, will include a 42km marathon, a half marathon and a 5km walk down some of the scenic beaches of Thailand.

Come the 1st of July, and the Ubon Rathchathani candle and International Candle Carving Festival will commence along with the alms-giving for Asalha Puja and the Khao Phansa Buddhist ceremony.

The Phi Ta Khon is an utterly unique celebration during the Bun Luang Festival, the biggest yearly merit-making ceremony of entertainment. Starting on the 4rth of july, this 3 day long event will feature participants parading down the streets in the most colourful clothes, masks and props.

By now you must have understood that Thailand is a land of mixed cultures….and to get a sneek peek and the post event review of the events of Thailand……..you now know where to look right? So stay hooked!

Enjoy Thai massage!!

Heard of a Thai massage but skeptical to try it? Well, here are some of the valuable informations which might help you overcome your inhibitions to a certain extent. Though it was initially a form of therapeutic healing, today Thai massage has taken the garb of a more fashionable form. Whether it’s the street in Bangkok, a by lane in the magnificent Chingmai island or the charismatic Pattaya, a massage parlour is sure to catch your attention.

There are more than a dozen types of Thai massages which are well-known from the ancient times. The Old Medicine Hospital Style, the Buntautak style, Thai classic massage and the Thai yoga massage are just a few to name; and if you happen to hit any of the parlours, you are sure to find a style that suits your needs.

As soon as the receiver changes into his/her pyjamas, he is put into yoga-like positions during the course of the massage. In the northern style there are a lot of stretching movements whereas the southern style emphasis is given to acupressure. Usually no oil is applied, but sometimes a hot herbal compress is used to warm and sooth the receiver’s body. A typical relaxation therapy may last upto two hours. There is a standard procedure and rhythm to the massage.

A Thai massage is a sheer treat to your mind and soul, but it might be a little heavy on your pocket. While a regular parlour may charge you approximately $10 to 15, the same may be five times more expensive if you opt for a five star hotel parlour. But whatever your choice of massage may be, make sure you have a fair bargain and not get cheated by the innumerable parlours.

Image source: dresden

Love thai food

When it comes to food, Thailand serves you one of the vastest spreads of sumptuous eateries. Being situated near the sea, sea food is one of the reasons why tourists flock to Thailand. In fact food is as much a part of Thai culture, as is a Thai massage or kick boxing.

If you are in Bangkok, you won’t have to walk far before you find something to eat. In fact to taste the actual flavours of Thai cuisine, a roadside movable van or a pavement eatery should be your destination….but yes…don’t be surprised to see and hear some of the funniest sounding and looking dishes!

Likewise, other smaller towns of Thailand also offer the most delicious and mouth watering dishes. And if you are game to try out something new and different, then opt for the “Yam Makhua”, a salad of grilled long eggplants topped with tiny dried shrimps or the “Gaeng Som”, a soup flavored with tamarind and palm sugar, packed with chunks of coarsely chopped cauliflowers.

A word of caution here would be necessary here, if you are a pure vegetarian. Though the country offers an unmatched culinary experience, it often gets difficult for a veggie to get his/her hands of something that does not contain meat, fish or egg. Infact the Thais often don’t seem to understand the major difference ‘coz for them everything is “eatable”! thus, you might even find it impossible to have a simple cheese burger!

There quite a few “Vegetarian” restaurants in Bangkok offering limited variety of dishes, but in the suburbs like Pattaya and Phuket, it will be wise to carry your own veg food to avoid disappointments.