Tuesday, January 29, 2008

Festival in January

Bor Sang Umbrella and Sankampaeng Handicraft Festival
18 Jan 2008 - 20 Jan 2008



Bor Sang, on highway 1006 heading east from Chiang Mai, appears to be a typical sleepy rural village, the kind the tour bus speeds by giving you just a fleeting glimpse of its two-storey wooden houses. But hidden in the tiny lanes, villagers have perfected a craft that creates the country’s most famous umbrellas.

For more than 100 years, the village has been associated with the production of umbrellas made from Saa paper derived from mulberry tree bark. According to local history, a monk travelled to neighbouring Myanmar, where he came across Saa paper umbrellas that offered protection against both the sun and rain.
He returned with the production technique and introduced the umbrella to the elders of Bor Sang village, who added their own artistic skills to create a distinctive colourful, but very practical, umbrella. At first it was just a profitable hobby that supplemented the villagers’ earnings from the annual rice crop. However, with time production of the Saa paper umbrellas prospered, prompting villagers to establish a handicraft cooperative in 1941 that now organises the annual festival.

Using silk and cotton, weaved at neighbouring Sankampaeng, villagers eventually added a second line of umbrellas decorated with images of the north, its flowers and birds, all intricately hand-painted.
Today, Bor Sang village exports both Saa-paper and silk umbrellas. They are seen at trade shows in a variety of sizes, from giant parasols that offer a shady canopy from the sun, to miniscule variations that adorn popular cocktail drinks.

To celebrate success the village hosts a three-day festival every January. Streets are illuminated by lanterns, while hundreds of umbrellas are hung from the rafters and beams of houses and shops. Bands play, while villagers compete to design the year’s most attractive umbrella. Concerts, a food festival and beauty contest all compete for the attention of the audience, a mix of both tourists and residents, who gather here to celebrate Bor Sang’s innovative handicraft skills.

Throughout the year, tourists visit the village, a short 6 km drive from Chiang Mai, to buy umbrellas and study the process and skills that go into making a handicraft entirely from natural products. But nothing quite compares with the buzz that permeates the village during this colourful three-day handicraft festival, every January. It is a scene that represents village hospitality and charm at its very best.


Baan Phai Rice Ceremony
18 Jan 2008 - 22 Jan 2008



from 18 to 22 January, at Baan Pai district office, Khon Kaen province, and offers rice castle builders an opportunity to show off their skills in architecture, while the crowd can also vote for the year’s Miss Rice, who will represent local rice growers as their “beauty queen.” Tel: 043 272 611.


I-San Agricultural Fair
25 Jan 2008 - 3 Feb 2008



from 25 January to 3 February, at the Agricultural Technology Park, Khon Kaen University, offers much more than glimpses of the latest tractors and trucks. Local farmers and market gardeners are here to present their farm produce including flowers and plants. This is not your typical tourist venue, but visitors will enjoy the way northeast residents can inject an element of fun and entertainment into an otherwise serious exhibition. Tel: 043 202 360.


The Royal Trophy Postponed
1 Jan 2008 - 31 Jan 2008




The Royal Trophy – Europe vs Asia Golf Championship is a unique, emotionally-charged and passionate competition played between the continents of Europe and Asia in a team match-play format. The best players from Europe play against the best players from Asia to compete in a spectacular series of matches for stewardship over the perpetual Royal Trophy – graciously donated by His Majesty the King of Thailand.

The Royal Trophy Postponed
The Princess passed away on January 2 after receiving treatment for abdominal cancer in the hospital for the last six months. She was 84.

The Thai government announced a 15-day mourning period and asked that festive activities be suspended during this time.

The Royal Trophy tournament features the finest players from Asia and Europe competing for stewardship over the Royal Trophy, which was graciously donated by His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej. The event's third edition will be held in the earliest date possible

Website : www.theroyaltrophy.com

Festival in February

Passport to Chiang mai
1 Feb 2008 - 3 Feb 2008



Experience the new aspects of sufficient travel
“Uniting all tourist NEEDS; Dining, Traveling, Staying, Shopping and Spa”
The First collaboration of travel entrepreneurs and exporters aims to provide a privilege for you with sincerity in the Passport to Chiang Mai Fair 2008 (PCM) Between 1st – 3rd February 2008 at JJ Market Chiang Mai 10 a.m.- 8 p.m.

Website : http://www.tatchiangmai.org


Thailand OTOP to the World
8 Feb 2008 - 10 Feb 2008

Thailand OTOP to the World


Welcome to Sapa Khongdee Doi Saket Fair, Chiang Mai during 8-10 February
You will enjoy buying the OTOP products from the source of production and agriculture produce is free from toxin touching on attractiveness spell and tourist beautiful attraction continue sharing territory culture legend fully try to taste an initiator food of Doi Saket , beautiful attraction in Chiang Mai Thailand

Website : http://www.tatchiangmai.org


Thailand Chinatown Festival
7 Feb 2008 - 8 Feb 2008



Thailand Chinatown Festival
Date : 7-8 February 2008
Venue : Chinatown on Yaowarat Road, Bangkok
Come to celebrate the Chinese New Year at the biggest Chinatown in Thailand, Yaowarat Road renowned as the Golden Road, the Land of the Siamese Dragon. Watch the beauty, treasure the Chinese cultural demonstrations and experience a wide range of Chinesw cuisine available at famous restaurants as well as fashion shows depicting ancient Chinese attire from various regions. The goldsmith shops offer you beautiful souvenirs. Last but not least, Chinese movies are sure to fascinate you.

Website : www.tat.or.th/festival


I-San Agricultural Fair
25 Jan 2008 - 3 Feb 2008



from 25 January to 3 February, at the Agricultural Technology Park, Khon Kaen University, offers much more than glimpses of the latest tractors and trucks. Local farmers and market gardeners are here to present their farm produce including flowers and plants. This is not your typical tourist venue, but visitors will enjoy the way northeast residents can inject an element of fun and entertainment into an otherwise serious exhibition. Tel: 043 202 360.


Trang Underwater Wedding Ceremony
13 Feb 2008 - 15 Feb 2008



Date : 13-15 February 2008
Venue : Ko Kradan, Sikao District, Trang
The brides and grooms parade through the city streets and attend lavish parties. The wedding ceremony will be held on the beach in a traditional Thai style while the registration procedure will take place underwater off Ko Kradan.


The 31st Chiang Mai Flower Festival
1 Feb 2008 - 3 Feb 2008



The 31st Chiang Mai Flower Festival
Date : 1-3 February 2008
Venue : Nong Buak Hat Park, Mueang District, Chiang Mai

If you are obsessed with beautiful flowers and decorative plants, this is the festival for you. Experience these beautiful flower-decorated floats and a magnificent tapestry of floral splendor that blankets the land. There are also agricultural exhibitions, floral contents, and product sales by local groups of housewives.

Website : www.tourismthailand.org, www.tatchiangmai.org

Festival in March

Yasothon Bun Bangfai Rocket Festival
11 Mar 2008 - 13 Mar 2008
Annual ritual to ensure that the seasonal rains fall at the appropriate time in ...

Pattaya International Music Festival 2008
21 Mar 2008 - 23 Mar 2008
Free concerts by an incredible range of local and international musicians. Visit...

The 23rd ASEAN Barred Ground Dove Festival
1 Mar 2008 - 2 Mar 2008
Thais have long believed that doves are creatures which bring good luck to those...

Si Maha Racha Songkran Festival
19 Mar 2008 - 21 Mar 2008
Date : 19-21 April 2008 Venue : Ko Loi Park, Si Racha District, Chon Buri ...

The 23rd ASEIAN Barred Ground Dove Festival
2 Mar 2008 - 3 Mar 2008
Thais have long believed that doves are creatures which bring good luck to those...

Mekong River International Multi-sport
28 Mar 2008 - 31 Mar 2008
Take in the triathlon races on the longest river in Southeast Asia. Partake in t...

Festival in April

Phra Pradang Songkran Festival
18 Apr 2008 - 20 Apr 2008
The Phra Pradaeng Songkran Festival, formerly known as the ‘Pak Lat Songkran Fes...

Phra Pradang Songkran Festival
18 Apr 2008 - 20 Apr 2008
Date : 18-20 April 2008 Venue : Phra Pradaeng District, Samut Prakan The Phr...

Nong Khai Grand Songkran Festival
6 Apr 2008 - 18 Apr 2008
You will see beautiful processions to sprinkle water onto the sacred Luang Pho P...

Bangkok Songkran Festival
6 Apr 2008 - 13 Apr 2008
Songkran embodies traditional Thai cultural values. The underlying significance ...

Dok Khun Siang Khaen Songkran Festival
8 Apr 2008 - 15 Apr 2008
Experience the beauty of dok khun flowers in full yellow bloom throughout this n...

Nakhon Phanom Songkran Festival
13 Apr 2008 - 15 Apr 2008
Woramahawihan, Renu Nakhon District, Nakhon Phanom Buddhist bathing rituals are...

Hat Yai Midnight Songkran Festival
13 Apr 2008 - 15 Apr 2008
Come and splash water to celebrate Songkran and see a pageant of beauty queens. ...

Chiang Mai Songkran Festival
13 Apr 2008 - 15 Apr 2008
Partake in this ancient spectacle in Chiang Mai with merit-making activities, a ...

Southern Grand Songkran Festival
11 Apr 2008 - 15 Apr 2008
Making merit to monks, bathing the Phra Phuttha Sihing Buddha images, Songkran p...

Songkran Water Festival
13 Apr 2008 - 15 Apr 2008
The traditional gentle sprinkling of water in temples and homes is still practic...

Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Songkran Festival
13 Apr 2008 - 15 Apr 2008
Merit-making activities and an alms-giving ceremony. Bathing ritual of Buddha im...

Wan Lai Bang Saen Songkran Festival
16 Apr 2008 - 17 Apr 2008
An invitation is extended to monks from various temples to give blessings to dif...

Phra Pradang Songkran Festival
18 Apr 2008 - 20 Apr 2008
The Phra Pradaeng Songkran Festival, formerly known as the ‘Pak Lat Songkran Fes...

Si Maha Racha Songkran Festival
19 Apr 2008 - 21 Apr 2008
A religious ritual based around rice, light-and-sound presentation, folk games, ...

Wan Lai Pattaya Songkran Festival
18 Apr 2008 - 19 Apr 2008
Partake in various activities around Na Kluea, Wat Chai Mongkhon and South Patta...

Festival in May

Yasothon Bun Bangfai Rocket Festival

Annual ritual to ensure that the seasonal rains fall at the appropriate time in the planting cycle. In the process, Buddhist merit-making traditions are also observed and reinforced. The festival, which is held over a period of three days, strengthens community spirit. The first day known as “Wan Suk |Dip” features a ritual to play homage to Chao Pu, the spirit of the city pillar. The second day is the rocket procession day. Each is escorted by a colourful dance troupe. The rocket are finally launched on the third day in which various rockets and beauty contests are held. It is also a day for the ordination of novices with festive celebrations following merit-making rituals.

Website : www.tat.or.th/festival

Festival in June

Phi Ta Khon Festival
1 Jun 2008 - 31 Jul 2008
Phi Ta Khon is an utterly unique celebration during the Bun Luang Festival, the ...

Thailand Grand Sale 2008
16 Jun 2008 - 15 Aug 2008
Date : 16 June – 15 August 2008 Venue : Department stores, hotels, restaurants,...

Laguna Phuket International Marathon 2008
15 Jun 2008
Experience the real challenge with the doable course for all participants due to...

Hua Hin Jazz Festival
6 Jun 2008 - 8 Jun 2008
Relax at the Hua Hin Jazz Festival where you will enjoy renowned Thai and intern...

Thailand Grand Sale 2008
16 Jun 2008 - 15 Aug 2008
If your hobby is shopping, you have to visit the country from 16 June to 15 Augu...

Festival in July

2008 Bangkok International Film Festival
19 Jul 2008 - 29 Jul 2008
Once again, the Royal Thai Government and the Tourism Authority of Thailand are ...

Phi Ta Khon Festival
1 Jun 2008 - 31 Jul 2008
Phi Ta Khon is an utterly unique celebration during the Bun Luang Festival,

Pattaya International Marathon
13 Jul 2008
The Pattaya International Marathon is one of the most famous marathons in Thailand

Ubon Ratchathani Candle Festival
1 Jul 2008 - 19 Jul 2008
Join the alms-giving for Asalha Puja and the Khao Phansa Buddhist ceremony.

Festival in August

Central International Watch Fair 2008
1 Aug 2008 - 30 Sep 2008
The International Watch Fair where brands and many exclusive collections from ov...

H.M. the Queen’s Birthday Celebrations
12 Aug 2008
An alms-giving ceremony in the morning is followed by a huge festival of music a...

Thailand Grand Sale 2008
16 Jun 2008 - 15 Aug 2008
Date : 16 June – 15 August 2008 Venue : Department stores, hotels, restaurants,...

H.M. the Queen’s Birthday Celebrations
12 Aug 2008
An alms-giving ceremony in the morning is followed by a huge festival of music a...

Thailand Grand Sale 2008
16 Jun 2008 - 15 Aug 2008
If your hobby is shopping, you have to visit the country from 16 June to 15 Augu...

Festival in September

Phuket Vegetarian Festival
28 Sep 2008 - 7 Oct 2008
The Thai-Cginese in Phuket have long passed on the vegetarian festival to purify...

Tennis ATP Thailand Open
22 Sep 2008 - 30 Sep 2008
See many renowned tennis pros that come to compete in this tournament.

Thailand International Swan Boat Races
12 Sep 2008 - 13 Sep 2008
Arts and Crafts Centre, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya The international Swan Boat R...

Central International Watch Fair 2008
1 Aug 2008 - 30 Sep 2008
The International Watch Fair where brands and many exclusive collections from ov...

Thailand International Swan Boat Races
12 Sep 2008 - 13 Sep 2008
The international Swan Boat Race 22 paddlers and the Thai Traditional Long Boat ...

Festival in October

Phuket Thailand Open 2008
1 Oct 2008 - 30 Nov 2008
One of the World Tour of SWATCH FIVB Beach Volley World Tour and the current big...

Phuket Vegetarian Festival
28 Sep 2008 - 7 Oct 2008
The Thai-Cginese in Phuket have long passed on the vegetarian festival to purify...

The End of the Buddhist Lent Festival
11 Oct 2008 - 15 Oct 2008
Participate in the “Tak Bat Thevo” alms-giving activity in the morning of Ok Pha...

Sakon Nakhon Wax Castle Festival
10 Oct 2008 - 14 Oct 2008
One of the biggest events in the Ok Phansa Day (The end of Buddhist Lent), the a...

The Illuminated Boat Procession
9 Oct 2008 - 15 Oct 2008
This festival was originally aimed at payings respect to the Lord Buddha. Then t...

Festival in November

Surin Elephant Roundup
15 Nov 2008 - 16 Nov 2008
Experience the lifestyle of the Kuai or Suai people, the locals whose lives are ...

Tak’s Loi Krathong Sai Festival
10 Nov 2008 - 15 Nov 2008
This festival involves Royal lamps, and a light-and-sound spectacular on a water...

Chiang Mai Yi Peng Festival
11 Nov 2008 - 13 Nov 2008
Participate in the launching of lanterns to worship Phrathat Chulamani, and take...

Bang Sai Loi Krathong Tam Prathip Festival
11 Nov 2008 - 13 Nov 2008
Relive the glorious past of Ayutthaya on this atmospheric night. Enjoy the tradi...

Sukhothai Loi Krathong and Candle Festival
7 Nov 2008 - 12 Nov 2008
Be enchanted by the worshipping ceremonies to “Phra Mae Ya” and King Ramkhamhaen...

Loi Krathong Festival
7 Nov 2008 - 12 Nov 2008
View the illuminated boat procession , Loi Krathong activities as well as illumi...

Phuket Thailand Open 2008
1 Oct 2008 - 30 Nov 2008
One of the World Tour of SWATCH FIVB Beach Volley World Tour and the current big...

Bangkok Marathon
30 Nov 2008
The starting point is at Sanam Chai, in front of the Royal Palace, passing many ...

River Kwai Bridge Week
24 Nov 2008 - 5 Dec 2008
Watch the light-and-sound show in remembrance of the bridge and the construction...

Laguna Phuket Triathlon
17 Nov 2008 - 18 Nov 2008
The competition among the “iron men” from Thailand and international countries i...


Website : www.loikrathong.net

Wednesday, January 23, 2008

Festival in December

Phuket King’s Cup Regatta
Phuket King’s Cup Regatta
Date : 6-13 December 2008
Venue : Phuket
After first being launched in 1987 to celebrate His Majesty the King’s 60th birthday, the King’s 60th birthday, the King’s Cup Regatta has been held annually and featured many international participants. See for yourself how these yachting people compete from Phuket to Phang-nga before moving on to Krabi on the Andanan sea, where the enchanting scenic beauty will take your breath away. This is the biggest and most impressive regatta in Asia.
Website : www.tourismthailand.org

Bangkok Jazz Festival 2007
Venue : Sanam Suea Pa, Dusit District, Bangkok
Relax in the chilled-out atmosphere inspired by jazz music from many international well-known artists.
Website : www.bangkokjazzfestival.com

Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya World Heritage Fair
Venue : Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Histirical Park, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya
Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya was once the glorious capital of Thailand. It was also a centre of trade and government, and possessed a long period of prosperity. Be amazed by the light-and-sound show, the exhibitions on Ayutthaya as a World Heritage Site, as well as the cultural performances. Having fun shopping for a variety of OTOP product is another activity.
Website : www.tat.or.th/festival

H.M. the King’s Birthday
Celebrate in the auspicious occasion of our beloved king's birthday!
An alms-giving ceremony in the morning is followed by a huge festival of music and culture at Sanam Luang in Bangkok to celebrate His Majesty the King’s birthday. You can also appreciate the beauty of the decorations along Ratchadamnoen Avenue.
Website : www.belovedking.com

Nong Saeng Christian Church , Muang district
December 24-25, 2007 at Ta Rae – Nong Saeng Christian Church , Muang district, Sakon Nakhon
World first Christmas Star Parade Cerebration in Sakon Nakhon Province, Thailand

Join the Christmas Star Procession at Ta Rae – Nong Saeng Christian Church, Muang district, Sakon Nakhon.

The Church is situated in Roman Catholic community serving Christian missions in 4 provinces, Sakon Nakhon, Nakorn Phanom, Mookdaharn and Kalasin. The gigantic celebration is held annually. Star shaped lamps are decorated in front of each house as the commemoration of Jesus’ birth.

The Christmas Star Procession is the commemorating event when the prophets followed a mysterious star to the Jesus’ birth place in the city of Bethlehem. Over a hundred vehicles from 4 provinces decorated with fabulous star lamps perform the procession. The activities include nativity scenes, Christmas songs singing contest and much more.
For more details, please call Ta Rae – Nong Saeng Christian Church, Sakon Nakhon.

River Kwai Bridge Week
Venue : River Kwai Bridge, Mueang District, Kanchanaburi
Watch the light-and-sound show in remembrance of the bridge and the construction of the “Death Railway” during World War II. (There are 4 sets of headphones available in English, Japanese, Chinese and German.) A wealth of entertainment and exhibitions are on display.
Website : www.kanchanaburi.go.th,

The Celebration on the Auspicious Occasion of His Majesty the King’s 80th Birthday Anniversary 5th December, 2007

Fireworks Performance “The Celebration on the Auspicious Occasion of His Majesty the King’s 80th Birthday Anniversary 5th December, 2007”

The spectacular fireworks will be held 5 days from December 4 to 8, 2007 to honor His Majesty the King’s 80th Birthday which will be the greatest event in memories.
The fireworks will be launched from different location as follows:

Day 1, on December 4 under the name “Dok Mai Fire Haeng Karm Jong Rak Pak Dee” or “Fireworks for loyalty to the King” at the Royal Sport Club sponsor by Seiko Holding Corporation and The Fireworks Association of Japan. There are 14 fireworks displays in 30 minutes designed by 12 Japanese Fireworks Artists. Khunying Tipavadee Meksawan will preside the opening ceremony at the Prince Palace Hotel.

Day 2, on December 5 under the name “Pung Pracha Tou Lah Tawai Pra Porn” or “People Well Wish His Majesty the King” at site on Chao Praya River between Rama IX Bridge and Industrial Ring Bridge. Well-wishes Candle lit will be presided by General Winai Pattriyakul,

Day 3, on December 6 under the name “Pra Bidorn Lon Krao Chao Thai” or “Our Beloved Father” at The Royal Athlete Society. Fireworks are designed and produced in Thailand under Japanese Management performing 3,000 shot of gorgeous displays.

Day 4, on December 7 under the name “Si Lao Terd Tai Ong Bhumiphol” or “Worship King Bhumiphol” at Lam Mae Pim beach, Kraeng district, Rayong. Fantasy Fireworks from China with computerized control will be launched from the sea. General Pichit Kullavanit will preside the well wishes ceremony.

Day 5, on December 8 under the name “Chalerm Pra Kiart Pra Baramee Greg Fah Kong Pattapee” or “Celebrating His Majesty the King’s Glorious 80th Birthday” at QSNCC. Splendid and Fantasy Fireworks Displays will be performed. General Montri Supaporn, Chairman of the glory fireworks performance committee, will preside the well wishes ceremony.
Find more details at www.gloryfireworks.com

Yoyot Ying Fah Ayutthaya World Heritage Site 2007
Spectacular Light and Sound Performance “ Yoyot Ying Fah Ayutthaya World Heritage Site 2007 ”

Ayutthaya Province in collaboration with the Government and Private Organization organize the special event “Yoyot Ying Fah Ayutthaya World Heritage Site and Red Cross Fair 2007” during 7-16 December 2007 at Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Historical Park. The event is for the purpose of conservation the unique Ayutthaya traditional culture which has been passed down from generation to generation since the province has been the capital of Thailand for 417 years under the rule of 33 kings.

The activities include Light and Sound Performances at Wat MahaThad Temple, the showcasing of ancient market, OTOP shops, traditional culture shows and much more. A mini tram service is provided free of charge.

Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) proudly invites all visitors to the spectacular event. The opening ceremony will be on Friday December 7. Tickets for the Light and Sound Performance are 200 Baht and 500 Baht available at Thai Ticket Master or www.thaiticketmajor.com.

21st PHUKET KING'S CUP REGATTA
The Phuket King's Cup Regatta held in honour of His Majesty the King of Thailand to commemorate His Majesty's birthday on December 5th has become the biggest sailing event in Asia. With participants from all over the world converging on Phuket to race in Asia's most prestigious regatta, the event offers five days of great sailing off Phuket's West Coast.

The Phuket King's Cup Regatta, Asia's biggest and most popular regatta, is the jewel in the crown of the Asian Yachting Circuit, a circuit of the leading regattas in Asia including the Raja Muda International Regatta, the Singapore Straits Regatta and the China Sea Race. More than a regatta, the week long event consists of great parties, great sailing and lots of fun.

Inaugurated in 1987 to celebrate the sixtieth birthday of His Majesty the King of Thailand, the event has been held during the first week of December every year since. With the Royal Patronage of His Majesty the King, the Regatta is organized by the Phuket King's Cup Regatta Organizing Committee under the auspices of the Royal Varuna Yacht Club, in conjunction with the Yacht Racing Association of Thailand, the Royal Thai Navy and the Province of Phuket.

The 2004 Phuket King's Cup Regatta attracted some 900 participants representing 96 teams. In 2006, the organizers are expecting the participation of representatives from at least 15 countries from around the world namely - from Australia, New Zealand, Indonesia, Singapore, Malaysia, the Philippines, the United States, the United Kingdom, Italy, Russia as well as teams from Europe. Travel to Thailand is being sponsored by Thai Airways International, the national carrier. Approximately 1,000 visitors, including some highly experienced crews, are expected to travel to the tropical resort island of Phuket.

The Phuket King's Cup Regatta was inaugurated in 1987 to celebrate the 60th birthday of His Majesty the King and has been held annually every year since in honour of His Majesty who graciously agreed to be patron of the event.

The regatta has progressed from modest beginnings into an event that is now widely recognised as the largest regatta in Asia. The Phuket King's Cup Regatta has a unique combination of top standard racing, spectacular scenery and sailing conditions and outstanding social events. Each year, His Majesty the King sends a personal representative to present the King's Cup trophies on his behalf. This special Royal awards ceremony is the highlight of the event.

Racing takes place over a 6-day period in several classes of yacht, namely racing, cruising, ocean cruising, multi-hull, classic keel boats and Farr Platus. Competitors and their yachts come from all over the world, including strong contingents from Asia, Australia, New Zealand, America and Europe.

The 2000 event saw almost 100 boats entering over the 6 classes - a record. These ranged from some of the world's top racing yachts (with a fair number of world class sailors onboard) through to amateur racing, cruising and classic sailing yachts. Around 1,000 participants and partygoers enjoyed the splendid sailing and memorable social events. This year, the Phuket King's Cup Regatta will proceed as planned without changes to the programme or the level of participation. The island paradise is preparing to welcome a large fleet close to the 2000 record. The organizing committee expects that these figures will steadily increase as Phuket gains an ever-stronger reputation as a premier sailing destination in Asia.

Media interest in the event has grown alongside, and the 2000 event saw media representation, both print and broadcast, from Thailand, Singapore, Hong Kong and Japan, as well as America, Belgium, Holland Italy, Germany and Britain. And, for the first time, a half-hour show was broadcast on television around the world, bringing the Phuket King's Cup Regatta into more than 250 million homes. This year, with a new involvement with CNN, the Phuket King's Cup Regatta will be seen in 450,000 million households.

Since its outset, the regatta has consisted of a number of organizations and people, public and private, commercial and volunteer. These include the organizing yacht clubs, the Royal Thai Navy, the Sports authority of Thailand, the Office of the Governor of Phuket, the Tourist Authority of Thailand, police, customs and immigration departments and sponsors, without whom the event would not be possible. This year, for added peace of mind, visible added security courtesy of the navy and police has been put into place for further reassurance.
For more information, please visit www.kingscup.com