THAILAND NOW—the newest English information hub has been launched and is all set to go...explore all you need to know about Thailand on www.thailand now.in.thH.E. Mr Vijavat Isarabhakdi, Vice Minister, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand presided over the launch event of THAILAND NOW, the newest information hub about Thailand in the English language on 1 October, 2020.Visit THAILAND NOW via its website at www.thailandnow.in.th, or on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and Twitter.Conceived through the partnership between public and private agencies, THAILAND NOW is designed to facilitate foreigners in their search for reliable, comprehensive, and insightful information about Thailand.The event was witnessed by members of the diplomatic corps in Bangkok, government agencies, business people and the media. The launch was inaugurated by a spectacular Khon mask performance by a group of talented young dancers, and witty testimonies from with famous influencers/bloggers, such as Mr. Christopher Wright, Mr. Adam Bradshaw and Mr. Ali Gubush, who shared their experiences in finding &nbsp;information about Thailand.Watch the spectacular launch event here!Powered by <a href="https://www.froala.com/wysiwyg-editor?pb=1" title="Froala Editor">Froala Editor</a>

THAILAND NOW—the newest English information hub has been launched and is all set to go...explore all you need to know about Thailand on www.thailand now.in.thH.E. Mr Vijavat Isarabhakdi, Vice Minister, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand presided over the launch event of THAILAND NOW, the newest information hub about Thailand in the English language on 1 October, 2020.Visit THAILAND NOW via its website at www.thailandnow.in.th, or on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and Twitter.Conceived through the partnership between public and private agencies, THAILAND NOW is designed to facilitate foreigners in their search for reliable, comprehensive, and insightful information about Thailand.The event was witnessed by members of the diplomatic corps in Bangkok, government agencies, business people and the media. The launch was inaugurated by a spectacular Khon mask performance by a group of talented young dancers, and witty testimonies from with famous influencers/bloggers, such as Mr. Christopher Wright, Mr. Adam Bradshaw and Mr. Ali Gubush, who shared their experiences in finding &nbsp;information about Thailand.Watch the spectacular launch event here!Powered by Froala Editor

Thailand NOW A new multi-platform information hub

<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/11ATfDex9DRNofYDHM-fdCBvbsgCKmp5t/view?usp=sharing"><img src="https://thailandnow-dev.sgp1.digitaloceanspaces.com/production/Y48OKCllL_Visa%20procedure%20during%20COVID-19%20%28201020%29_Page_1.png" style="width: 1000px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"></a><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/11ATfDex9DRNofYDHM-fdCBvbsgCKmp5t/view?usp=sharing"><img src="https://thailandnow-dev.sgp1.digitaloceanspaces.com/production/9yi44nkdj_Visa%20procedure%20during%20COVID-19%20%28AW%2015.10.20%29_Page_2.png" style="width: 1000px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"></a><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/11ATfDex9DRNofYDHM-fdCBvbsgCKmp5t/view?usp=sharing"><img src="https://thailandnow-dev.sgp1.digitaloceanspaces.com/production/jRUS6z_qF_Visa%20procedure%20during%20COVID-19%20%28AW%2015.10.20%29_Page_3.png" style="width: 1000px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"></a><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/11ATfDex9DRNofYDHM-fdCBvbsgCKmp5t/view?usp=sharing"><img src="https://thailandnow-dev.sgp1.digitaloceanspaces.com/production/XI23o0bDM_Visa%20procedure%20during%20COVID-19%20%28AW%2015.10.20%29_Page_4.png" style="width: 1000px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"></a><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/11ATfDex9DRNofYDHM-fdCBvbsgCKmp5t/view?usp=sharing"><img src="https://thailandnow-dev.sgp1.digitaloceanspaces.com/production/Wf4g3QCME_Visa%20procedure%20during%20COVID-19%20%28AW%2015.10.20%29_Page_5.png" style="width: 1000px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"></a><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/11ATfDex9DRNofYDHM-fdCBvbsgCKmp5t/view?usp=sharing"><img src="https://thailandnow-dev.sgp1.digitaloceanspaces.com/production/8bFKInH2B_Visa%20procedure%20during%20COVID-19%20%28201020%29_Page_6.png" style="width: 1000px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"></a>&nbsp;Download<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/11ATfDex9DRNofYDHM-fdCBvbsgCKmp5t/view?usp=sharing">&nbsp;Download</a>Powered by <a href="https://www.froala.com/wysiwyg-editor?pb=1" title="Froala Editor">Froala Editor</a>

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Visa procedures during COVID-19 (FAQ)

The continued growth of high-quality international schools in Thailand coupled with a broad range of innovative learning approaches and competitive fees are cementing the country’s position as a hub for international education in Asia.The past decade has seen a sharp rise in demand from local wealthy families, expatriate parents and students around the world, especially from China and the ASEAN member countries, who prefer schools for undergraduate and graduate studies in the region rather than those in Europe or the United States, which are expensive and far away from home.Also driving the demand for quality educational institutes is the government's economic initiative known as Thailand 4.0 and in particular, the development of the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) and Special Economic Zones (SEZ) in 10 provinces around Thailand to connect with neighbouring countries in terms of trade, economy, and investment.For expatriates planning to migrate with their families, finding the right school for their children is one of the most important factors. They have to consider their children’s needs and balance these with the availability of exceptional educational institutions that offer more than just schooling, by also supporting each individual child through a thriving learning experience.The bright prospects for international education are luring more leading companies as well as some of the world's best-known universities to move into the lucrative private education business in Thailand, mainly in Bangkok and the surrounding area.VERSO International School and King’s College International School Bangkok are the latest players, both opening for their first semesters in August 2020. Country Group Development will launch a premium international school in Bangkok next year.U City Public Company Limited, an affiliate of one of Thailand's largest infrastructure developers, BTS Group Holdings Public Company Limited, in partnership with Fortune Hand Ventures from Hong Kong, invested 5-billion Baht to offer a new choice of innovative learning. Located on 168 rai in Bang Na district, VERSO is the largest international school in Bangkok with a capacity of up to 1,800 students.&nbsp;<figure><img src="https://thailandnow-dev.sgp1.digitaloceanspaces.com/production/qbL5HkfB6_VERSO_3.jpg" class="fr-fic fr-dii" style="width: 2000px;"></figure>Mr. Cameron Fox, Head of VERSO International School, says that the starting point for the project was a simple question: How can we design a new international school that will truly prepare its students for a world that is changing faster than at any other time in human history?In addition to a new teaching approach, VERSO represents a paradigm shift in physical design. It is the first international school in the world to be designed in partnership with IDEO, which is recognised globally for using Design Thinking, a methodology based on a human-centred design process to find solutions to a problem creatively and innovatively. <img src="https://thailandnow-dev.sgp1.digitaloceanspaces.com/production/1Fu3Wy8ME_Lowerloop%20class.JPG" style="width: 2000px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"> King's College International School Bangkok (King's Bangkok) is a King's College School Wimbledon's international school. King's College School, Wimbledon, ranked in the top 5 schools in the UK, selected Bangkok as the destination to establish its third international school in Asia and first in South East Asia.<figure><img src="https://thailandnow-dev.sgp1.digitaloceanspaces.com/production/9udS61of3_King%27s_collage_1.jpg" class="fr-fic fr-dii" style="width: 2000px;"></figure>Headmaster Mr. Thomas Banyard explains that the school offers a unique curriculum that goes beyond academics with students able to explore their potential in sports, music, and a host of cocurricular activities. Situated in the Ratchada-Rama 3 area of Bangkok with a capacity of 1,500 students, the state-of-the-art facilities will soon include a sports complex boasting an Olympic-size swimming pool, a 600-seat auditorium, and specialist science, music and art resources.<figure><img src="https://thailandnow-dev.sgp1.digitaloceanspaces.com/production/nT9IAxVO__King%27s_collage_2.jpg" class="fr-fic fr-dii" style="width: 2000px;"></figure> Wellington College, one of the world's top co-educational independent day and boarding schools, opened Wellington College International School Bangkok last year, its first branch in Southeast Asia. Starting from pre-prep and prep levels, the school is also opening a senior school running from Year 9 to Year 13, with the first Year 9 class available from September 2020.The Thongsima Family, owner of the Nakornthon Hospital, joined with BASIS International Education Holdings to establish BASIS International School Bangkok on Rama 2 Road last year as the first campus in ASEAN.&nbsp;For the early years, each classroom has two teachers - an Early Education Teacher and a Teaching Fellow - both experts in early childhood education. The campus believes that this co-teaching model allows teachers to offer focussed attention to each student.<figure style="width:100%;"><img src="https://thailandnow-dev.sgp1.digitaloceanspaces.com/production/znj40qeRQ_international%20schools.jpg" style="width: 2000px;" class="fr-fic fr-dii"> </figure> According to the International School Association of Thailand (ISAT), the number of member schools has grown continuously, going from only 5 schools in 1994 when ISAT was established to 141 today. The majority are in Bangkok and the Greater Bangkok area, with others in Chon Buri, Phuket, Chiang Mai, Nakhon Ratchasima, and Udon Thani.The main international curricula offered in Thailand are British, American, and International Baccalaureate (IB), but French, German, Australian, Singaporean, and Chinese curricula are also available.In addition to the international schools, local leading public and private universities also provide international programmes from pre-prep to undergraduate and higher education.&nbsp;Powered by <a href="https://www.froala.com/wysiwyg-editor?pb=1" title="Froala Editor">Froala Editor</a>

Thailand aspires to be Asia’s education hub for the citizens of the world.	

The continued growth of high-quality international schools in Thailand coupled with a broad range of innovative learning approaches and competitive fees are cementing the country’s position as a hub for international education in Asia.The past decade has seen a sharp rise in demand from local wealthy families, expatriate parents and students around the world, especially from China and the ASEAN member countries, who prefer schools for undergraduate and graduate studies in the region rather than those in Europe or the United States, which are expensive and far away from home.Also driving the demand for quality educational institutes is the government's economic initiative known as Thailand 4.0 and in particular, the development of the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) and Special Economic Zones (SEZ) in 10 provinces around Thailand to connect with neighbouring countries in terms of trade, economy, and investment.For expatriates planning to migrate with their families, finding the right school for their children is one of the most important factors. They have to consider their children’s needs and balance these with the availability of exceptional educational institutions that offer more than just schooling, by also supporting each individual child through a thriving learning experience.The bright prospects for international education are luring more leading companies as well as some of the world's best-known universities to move into the lucrative private education business in Thailand, mainly in Bangkok and the surrounding area.VERSO International School and King’s College International School Bangkok are the latest players, both opening for their first semesters in August 2020. Country Group Development will launch a premium international school in Bangkok next year.U City Public Company Limited, an affiliate of one of Thailand's largest infrastructure developers, BTS Group Holdings Public Company Limited, in partnership with Fortune Hand Ventures from Hong Kong, invested 5-billion Baht to offer a new choice of innovative learning. Located on 168 rai in Bang Na district, VERSO is the largest international school in Bangkok with a capacity of up to 1,800 students.&nbsp;Mr. Cameron Fox, Head of VERSO International School, says that the starting point for the project was a simple question: How can we design a new international school that will truly prepare its students for a world that is changing faster than at any other time in human history?In addition to a new teaching approach, VERSO represents a paradigm shift in physical design. It is the first international school in the world to be designed in partnership with IDEO, which is recognised globally for using Design Thinking, a methodology based on a human-centred design process to find solutions to a problem creatively and innovatively.King's College International School Bangkok (King's Bangkok) is a King's College School Wimbledon's international school. King's College School, Wimbledon, ranked in the top 5 schools in the UK, selected Bangkok as the destination to establish its third international school in Asia and first in South East Asia.Headmaster Mr. Thomas Banyard explains that the school offers a unique curriculum that goes beyond academics with students able to explore their potential in sports, music, and a host of cocurricular activities. Situated in the Ratchada-Rama 3 area of Bangkok with a capacity of 1,500 students, the state-of-the-art facilities will soon include a sports complex boasting an Olympic-size swimming pool, a 600-seat auditorium, and specialist science, music and art resources.Wellington College, one of the world's top co-educational independent day and boarding schools, opened Wellington College International School Bangkok last year, its first branch in Southeast Asia. Starting from pre-prep and prep levels, the school is also opening a senior school running from Year 9 to Year 13, with the first Year 9 class available from September 2020.The Thongsima Family, owner of the Nakornthon Hospital, joined with BASIS International Education Holdings to establish BASIS International School Bangkok on Rama 2 Road last year as the first campus in ASEAN.&nbsp;For the early years, each classroom has two teachers - an Early Education Teacher and a Teaching Fellow - both experts in early childhood education. The campus believes that this co-teaching model allows teachers to offer focussed attention to each student.According to the International School Association of Thailand (ISAT), the number of member schools has grown continuously, going from only 5 schools in 1994 when ISAT was established to 141 today. The majority are in Bangkok and the Greater Bangkok area, with others in Chon Buri, Phuket, Chiang Mai, Nakhon Ratchasima, and Udon Thani.The main international curricula offered in Thailand are British, American, and International Baccalaureate (IB), but French, German, Australian, Singaporean, and Chinese curricula are also available.In addition to the international schools, local leading public and private universities also provide international programmes from pre-prep to undergraduate and higher education.&nbsp;Powered by Froala Editor

A destination for international education   

Hotel operators in Thailand will have to adopt new strategies in order to survive the fallout from the coronavirus pandemic and without an influx of international tourists on the horizon, must overhaul operations, and set a new focus, experts say.&nbsp;<img src="https://thailandnow-dev.sgp1.digitaloceanspaces.com/production/dxDCOEjdt_p1.jpg" style="width: 1000px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"> The absence of international visitors since the beginning of the pandemic means local hoteliers are having to share the domestic cake of about 35% occupancy. Foreign tourists account for 65% of the tourism industry in Thailand.However, there is light at the end of tunnel. Amornpan Somsawat, a hotel business consultant, suggests that rather than dwell on what might have been, hoteliers should change their mindset and focus on the market that remains. “Expats are still here, and the operators have to narrow their target and concentrate on that segment,” she said.During a recent online panel discussion on the hotel industry held recently by Siam Commercial Bank, Amornpan said adopting strict hygiene standards is crucial as hotel guests are now very concerned about safety. The pandemic has led to changes in consumer behavior and hoteliers must respond, accordingly.&nbsp;Hoteliers have to rethink their marketing and communications strategies as well. “Due to the pandemic, your target group will be clearer - in fact, much clearer - so your marketing and communications must be redesigned to reach the target group. There’s no more beating around the bush,” she said.Thailand is facing a dilemma. It&nbsp;will possibly see new infections and local transmission when it reopens its borders to international tourists. But if the country doesn’t reopen, the impact will be massive. Tourism Authority of Thailand’s Governor Yuthasak Supaporn predicted that around 2.4 million out of 4 million jobs in the hospitality industry will be at risk.<img src="https://thailandnow-dev.sgp1.digitaloceanspaces.com/production/PotzxXXqN_p2.jpg" style="width: 1000px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"> TAT forecasts a total of 6.7 million international arrivals in 2020 and revenue of 332 billion Baht, down 65% from 2019. It has also downgraded its 2020 estimates to 70 million domestic trips from 80 million, contributing 418 billion Baht in revenue, a decrease of 61% over 2019.Although a large number of hotels across the country have not reopened, those known to attract local visitors and expats have resumed operations. The lifting of travel restrictions has benefitted many hotels, especially those in locations popular with Thais.&nbsp;In addition, the staycation is booming, and some operators have adapted their businesses to attract local people. For example, hotels in Bangkok have launched special promotions to draw people to join the staycation trend while many tour activities; such as; bike tours, scooter tours, and whale watching have turned their focus to Thais now that there are no foreigners.&nbsp; <div class="fr-img-space-wrap"><img src="https://thailandnow-dev.sgp1.digitaloceanspaces.com/production/LSD8Mf8V6_shutterstock_1481786072%20%281%29%20low.jpg" style="width: 3000px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">- The staycation trend is booming among hoteliers -&nbsp;<span style='color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; display: inline !important; float: none;'>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Pornpavee Chauyruang, General Manager of Aksorn Rayong, a Vitality Collection Hotel, said that the hotel currently focusses on domestic tourists, and that it had done well after launching special packages for Thais. The 123-room, 5-star hotel also aims to encourage guests to spend more on the facilities; such as, spa and dining.</div> “We’ve just wrapped up a very special rate for the period since the travel ban was lifted, and we’re approaching the high season, so we will be offering a new promotional rate. The new rate will be applied across all platforms, which means you can book a room on our website and get the same rate as those offered on OTA (online travel agent),” she said.Hotel Consultant Amornpan is full of praise for the Aksorn Rayong’s policy, pointing out during the webinar that “It’s a golden period for hoteliers.” “This is the time to grab the opportunity to bring back direct booking and bypass OTA, which will benefit your cashflow as you get the money faster than if customers book through OTA like booking.com or Agoda and also give you a higher return, as you won’t be paying commission.<img src="https://thailandnow-dev.sgp1.digitaloceanspaces.com/production/w5XYumFJ3_p.3.jpg" style="width: 1000px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"> “What you must work on now is convincing customers to book rooms with you directly. I’d suggest it is about time you went back and made your website attractive and user-friendly,” said Amornpan.Hoteliers should consider developing their websites to make them compatible with mobile browsing. as this will enhance user experience and lead to successful bookings. The website should also have a strong presence on leading meta search engines like Google Hotel Ads. Kitchen and menu overhauledIn the months or even years following the COVID-19 crisis, the entire market will be more price-driven than ever. With customers having less disposable income, affordable meals will be in high demand. People will also look for added value experiences, and hotels must respond, accordingly.Dusit International Bangkok’s Global Vice President, Food &amp; Beverage, Jean-Michel Dixte says he can foresee a trend where hotel companies will invest less in F&amp;B operations and related human resources meaning F&amp;B programming may be massively reduced overall.&nbsp;He predicted quick service restaurants and fast casual dining establishments will take over the standalone market, each featuring minimum layers of staff and requiring minimal skills while still providing decent dining experiences in their related segments.<img src="https://thailandnow-dev.sgp1.digitaloceanspaces.com/production/CBvzcQ-QM_shutterstock_661325308%20low.jpg" style="width: 1000px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"> “To compete, hotels will increasingly use high-speed ovens, sous vide techniques, and other versatile cooking machines and methods that offer consistent levels of performance while simplifying cooking processes, allowing for smaller kitchens, and requiring less staff.&nbsp;“The luxury dining sector will become super niche with table service led by staff who are skilled, knowledgeable, and passionate about their craft. Michelin Star chefs will become only affordable to the 1% who control the planet. High-end restaurants, as we know them, will become a thing of the past remembered only by a few,” he added. Powered by <a href="https://www.froala.com/wysiwyg-editor?pb=1" title="Froala Editor">Froala Editor</a>

Hotel operators in Thailand will have to adopt new strategies in order to survive the fallout from the coronavirus pandemic and without an influx of international tourists on the horizon, must overhaul operations, and set a new focus, experts say.&nbsp;The absence of international visitors since the beginning of the pandemic means local hoteliers are having to share the domestic cake of about 35% occupancy. Foreign tourists account for 65% of the tourism industry in Thailand.However, there is light at the end of tunnel. Amornpan Somsawat, a hotel business consultant, suggests that rather than dwell on what might have been, hoteliers should change their mindset and focus on the market that remains. “Expats are still here, and the operators have to narrow their target and concentrate on that segment,” she said.During a recent online panel discussion on the hotel industry held recently by Siam Commercial Bank, Amornpan said adopting strict hygiene standards is crucial as hotel guests are now very concerned about safety. The pandemic has led to changes in consumer behavior and hoteliers must respond, accordingly.&nbsp;Hoteliers have to rethink their marketing and communications strategies as well. “Due to the pandemic, your target group will be clearer - in fact, much clearer - so your marketing and communications must be redesigned to reach the target group. There’s no more beating around the bush,” she said.Thailand is facing a dilemma. It&nbsp;will possibly see new infections and local transmission when it reopens its borders to international tourists. But if the country doesn’t reopen, the impact will be massive. Tourism Authority of Thailand’s Governor Yuthasak Supaporn predicted that around 2.4 million out of 4 million jobs in the hospitality industry will be at risk.TAT forecasts a total of 6.7 million international arrivals in 2020 and revenue of 332 billion Baht, down 65% from 2019. It has also downgraded its 2020 estimates to 70 million domestic trips from 80 million, contributing 418 billion Baht in revenue, a decrease of 61% over 2019.Although a large number of hotels across the country have not reopened, those known to attract local visitors and expats have resumed operations. The lifting of travel restrictions has benefitted many hotels, especially those in locations popular with Thais.&nbsp;In addition, the staycation is booming, and some operators have adapted their businesses to attract local people. For example, hotels in Bangkok have launched special promotions to draw people to join the staycation trend while many tour activities; such as; bike tours, scooter tours, and whale watching have turned their focus to Thais now that there are no foreigners.&nbsp;- The staycation trend is booming among hoteliers -&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Pornpavee Chauyruang, General Manager of Aksorn Rayong, a Vitality Collection Hotel, said that the hotel currently focusses on domestic tourists, and that it had done well after launching special packages for Thais. The 123-room, 5-star hotel also aims to encourage guests to spend more on the facilities; such as, spa and dining.“We’ve just wrapped up a very special rate for the period since the travel ban was lifted, and we’re approaching the high season, so we will be offering a new promotional rate. The new rate will be applied across all platforms, which means you can book a room on our website and get the same rate as those offered on OTA (online travel agent),” she said.Hotel Consultant Amornpan is full of praise for the Aksorn Rayong’s policy, pointing out during the webinar that “It’s a golden period for hoteliers.” “This is the time to grab the opportunity to bring back direct booking and bypass OTA, which will benefit your cashflow as you get the money faster than if customers book through OTA like booking.com or Agoda and also give you a higher return, as you won’t be paying commission.“What you must work on now is convincing customers to book rooms with you directly. I’d suggest it is about time you went back and made your website attractive and user-friendly,” said Amornpan.Hoteliers should consider developing their websites to make them compatible with mobile browsing. as this will enhance user experience and lead to successful bookings. The website should also have a strong presence on leading meta search engines like Google Hotel Ads.Kitchen and menu overhauledIn the months or even years following the COVID-19 crisis, the entire market will be more price-driven than ever. With customers having less disposable income, affordable meals will be in high demand. People will also look for added value experiences, and hotels must respond, accordingly.Dusit International Bangkok’s Global Vice President, Food &amp; Beverage, Jean-Michel Dixte says he can foresee a trend where hotel companies will invest less in F&amp;B operations and related human resources meaning F&amp;B programming may be massively reduced overall.&nbsp;He predicted quick service restaurants and fast casual dining establishments will take over the standalone market, each featuring minimum layers of staff and requiring minimal skills while still providing decent dining experiences in their related segments.“To compete, hotels will increasingly use high-speed ovens, sous vide techniques, and other versatile cooking machines and methods that offer consistent levels of performance while simplifying cooking processes, allowing for smaller kitchens, and requiring less staff.&nbsp;“The luxury dining sector will become super niche with table service led by staff who are skilled, knowledgeable, and passionate about their craft. Michelin Star chefs will become only affordable to the 1% who control the planet. High-end restaurants, as we know them, will become a thing of the past remembered only by a few,” he added.Powered by Froala Editor

Strategies for hotels to stay afloat post COVID-19

<h2> </h2><h2>&nbsp; From top to bottom, a whole-of-society effort has been the key to prevention. &nbsp;</h2> The fear was palpable. The predictions were dire. In early January, Thailand detected the first case outside China of a new, highly transmissible and deadly coronavirus (COVID-19) with no known cure. The Kingdom is a favorite destination for Chinese tourists: nearly 11 million visited in 2019, and in January 2020 alone, over 7,000 arrived from Wuhan, the epicenter of the outbreak. Public health professionals diagnosed Thailand as a country poised for disaster. That disaster never happened. Today, the World Health Organization (WHO), the United Nations and global health experts are praising Thailand for preventing COVID-19 from becoming an epidemic. Since January, the Kingdom of over 69 million people has recorded fewer than 3,600 infections, 59 deaths, and just one locally transmitted case in over 100 days. Journalists, economists and analysts have been advancing theories about how Thailand succeeded in stopping the virus. Some credited lockdowns and border closures. Others point to widespread mask-wearing. More than one wondered if it could just be luck.Luck is always welcome, but Thailand’s effective response is built on a more solid foundation. &nbsp;The Kingdom “is reaping the benefits of 40 years of health system strengthening,” WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom said in a recent speech. Thailand’s public health system, cited by the U.N. as a model for developing countries, has been central to preventing the spread of COVID-19. But the Kingdom’s approach is even more holistic. It is a whole-of-society effort in which everyone from the upper echelons to village volunteers are playing important parts. “I call it the Bang Rajan spirit,” says Dr. Tanarak Plipat of the Department of Disease Control, referring to a celebrated chapter in Thai history. In 1765, villagers in the hamlet of Bang Rajan banded together and staved off an invading foreign army for months, rallying a divided Kingdom. In 2020, health volunteers in villages and towns across Thailand have been inspiring fellow Thais by selflessly working on the front lines of the response. <div class="fr-img-space-wrap"><img src="https://thailandnow-dev.sgp1.digitaloceanspaces.com/production/dbXhUsYKD_St2EPrUKE_image%20no%20caption.png" style="width: 2000px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">- The Village Health Volunteer in rural areas of Thailand / Picture: www.prachachat.net -&nbsp;In most societies, it is rare to see someone at the very top getting involved in the trenches. But Thailand’s public health system originated with one such individual. A century ago, Prince Mahidol of Songkhla abandoned life at the royal court, earned degrees in public health and medicine at Harvard, and treated poor patients as a doctor in Chiang Mai. He helped upgrade Siriraj, the first modern hospital in the Kingdom and is regarded as the Father of Thai Medicine. He instilled in his family a devotion to public health and service. Prince Mahidol was a visionary and knew that a strong, accessible Thai public health system would be a decisive factor for the country’s future.</div> <div class="fr-img-space-wrap"><img src="https://thailandnow-dev.sgp1.digitaloceanspaces.com/production/j5N1i3jqE_shutterstock_670092124%20low.jpg" style="width: 3000px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">-Siriraj hospital, Thailand -&nbsp;His son, the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej The Great, carried on that commitment, as has his grandson King Maha Vajiralongkorn Phra Vajiraklaochaoyuhua. &nbsp;Many of His Majesty King Bhumibol’s royal projects focused on public health and he granted hundreds of scholarships to medical students to study overseas.</div>While still Crown Prince, His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn Phra Vajiraklaochaoyuhua funded the building of 21 hospitals across Thailand, mostly in remote and impoverished areas. These hospitals filled the gap in the network of public health services and complemented the endeavour of the government to provide the people with equal access to such crucial services. More recently during the COVID-19 pandemic, Their Majesties the King and the Queen donated ventilators, personal protective equipment, and ambulances, to assist communities in far-flung districts. In addition, His Majesty provided modular swab units and COVID-19 testing systems to hospitals nationwide.<img src="https://thailandnow-dev.sgp1.digitaloceanspaces.com/production/hGdmT0f5w_Crown%20Prince%20Hospital%20Map%20low.jpg" style="width: 1000px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Successive Thai governments have consistently prioritized public health. Thanks to sustained and widespread building of hospitals, clinics, and medical schools and universities, the Kingdom scores highly on many health indicators, including extremely low levels of maternal and child mortality despite being a developing country. Life expectancy is long at 75+ years and still increasing. The system had become so robust in 2001 that the government introduced universal health care, allowing anyone to receive treatment at public hospitals for about a dollar. The program, which is periodically refined and improved, remains enormously popular.Thai governments have also consistently funded medical schools, universities and their research. Mahidol and Chulalongkorn universities have been at the forefront and scientists at Chulalongkorn are fast at work on a COVID-19 vaccine. Thailand also has successful attempts in conducting large clinical vaccine trials, including treatments for HIV.<div class="fr-img-space-wrap"><img src="https://thailandnow-dev.sgp1.digitaloceanspaces.com/production/l5qvzi1P9_2Nqw8PaQU_CV3.png" style="width: 3000px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">- The Chula-COVID-19, a prototype vaccine being developed through mRNA method -Experience with pandemics is another key to Thailand’s response to COVID -19. Since the 1990s, the Kingdom has a sterling record of protecting its people from SARS, MERS, Avian Influenza, and other viruses. Its public health professionals have learned from every outbreak or potential threat and sharpened their skills and protocols. But they didn’t do it completely alone.</div>Partnerships have also been essential. Most Americans don’t realize that the Center for Disease Control’s largest office outside the United States is in Bangkok. And for 60 years, the U.S. Armed Forces Research Institute of Medical Sciences in Thailand has worked with the Kingdom’s doctors and scientists to prevent, control and cure diseases such as malaria, tuberculosis, dengue fever, and HIV/AIDS.But the most important partnership of all is between Thailand’s people, from top to bottom. In the 1970s, when the public health infrastructure was still limited, the government filled the gaps with a program of Village Health Volunteers. In every community, someone was trained in basic health care. That person would relay health information to their neighbors, check on the ill and the elderly, keep family health records, and act as an interface with clinics or hospitals in the province.Today, the WHO hails them as the “unsung heroes” of the COVID-19 response. The roughly one million Village Health Volunteers are serving as sentinels to spot, prevent, track and trace COVID-19 infections in their communities. Sometimes they are at risk of contracting the illness themselves. ‘I do it because I want to help my neighbors,” 60-year-old volunteer Arunrat Rukthin in Nong Khai province told Khaosod newspaper. “The Kingdom’s COVID-19 success was built on this record of cooperation between public health authorities and civil society that goes back 50 years,” wrote professor Walden Bello.As in many countries, politics can be divisive. But Thailand adopted a wise approach, acting early and decisively, and letting public health authorities take the lead. Those decisions engendered trust. As a result, when the government ordered a soft lockdown and a curfew, issued rules on wearing masks and appealed for unity and cooperation on other preventive measures, it got it. &nbsp;Thailand’s success in tackling COVID-19 can provide worthwhile lessons. The Kingdom doesn’t have the wealth or resources comparable to developed nations. &nbsp;But by adopting an honest, practical, and science-based approach, leadership won the trust and cooperation of the people who responded as a community. Doctors and scientists warn that a second wave of the virus could strike Thailand. If it does, Thailand and its people will be up to the challenge. <div id="_com_5" language="JavaScript"> </div>Powered by <a href="https://www.froala.com/wysiwyg-editor?pb=1" title="Froala Editor">Froala Editor</a>

&nbsp; From top to bottom, a whole-of-society effort has been the key to prevention. &nbsp;The fear was palpable. The predictions were dire. In early January, Thailand detected the first case outside China of a new, highly transmissible and deadly coronavirus (COVID-19) with no known cure. The Kingdom is a favorite destination for Chinese tourists: nearly 11 million visited in 2019, and in January 2020 alone, over 7,000 arrived from Wuhan, the epicenter of the outbreak. Public health professionals diagnosed Thailand as a country poised for disaster.That disaster never happened. Today, the World Health Organization (WHO), the United Nations and global health experts are praising Thailand for preventing COVID-19 from becoming an epidemic. Since January, the Kingdom of over 69 million people has recorded fewer than 3,600 infections, 59 deaths, and just one locally transmitted case in over 100 days. Journalists, economists and analysts have been advancing theories about how Thailand succeeded in stopping the virus. Some credited lockdowns and border closures. Others point to widespread mask-wearing. More than one wondered if it could just be luck.Luck is always welcome, but Thailand’s effective response is built on a more solid foundation. &nbsp;The Kingdom “is reaping the benefits of 40 years of health system strengthening,” WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom said in a recent speech. Thailand’s public health system, cited by the U.N. as a model for developing countries, has been central to preventing the spread of COVID-19. But the Kingdom’s approach is even more holistic. It is a whole-of-society effort in which everyone from the upper echelons to village volunteers are playing important parts.“I call it the Bang Rajan spirit,” says Dr. Tanarak Plipat of the Department of Disease Control, referring to a celebrated chapter in Thai history. In 1765, villagers in the hamlet of Bang Rajan banded together and staved off an invading foreign army for months, rallying a divided Kingdom. In 2020, health volunteers in villages and towns across Thailand have been inspiring fellow Thais by selflessly working on the front lines of the response.- The Village Health Volunteer in rural areas of Thailand / Picture: www.prachachat.net -&nbsp;In most societies, it is rare to see someone at the very top getting involved in the trenches. But Thailand’s public health system originated with one such individual. A century ago, Prince Mahidol of Songkhla abandoned life at the royal court, earned degrees in public health and medicine at Harvard, and treated poor patients as a doctor in Chiang Mai. He helped upgrade Siriraj, the first modern hospital in the Kingdom and is regarded as the Father of Thai Medicine. He instilled in his family a devotion to public health and service. Prince Mahidol was a visionary and knew that a strong, accessible Thai public health system would be a decisive factor for the country’s future.-Siriraj hospital, Thailand -&nbsp;His son, the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej The Great, carried on that commitment, as has his grandson King Maha Vajiralongkorn Phra Vajiraklaochaoyuhua. &nbsp;Many of His Majesty King Bhumibol’s royal projects focused on public health and he granted hundreds of scholarships to medical students to study overseas.While still Crown Prince, His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn Phra Vajiraklaochaoyuhua funded the building of 21 hospitals across Thailand, mostly in remote and impoverished areas. These hospitals filled the gap in the network of public health services and complemented the endeavour of the government to provide the people with equal access to such crucial services. More recently during the COVID-19 pandemic, Their Majesties the King and the Queen donated ventilators, personal protective equipment, and ambulances, to assist communities in far-flung districts. In addition, His Majesty provided modular swab units and COVID-19 testing systems to hospitals nationwide.Successive Thai governments have consistently prioritized public health. Thanks to sustained and widespread building of hospitals, clinics, and medical schools and universities, the Kingdom scores highly on many health indicators, including extremely low levels of maternal and child mortality despite being a developing country. Life expectancy is long at 75+ years and still increasing. The system had become so robust in 2001 that the government introduced universal health care, allowing anyone to receive treatment at public hospitals for about a dollar. The program, which is periodically refined and improved, remains enormously popular.Thai governments have also consistently funded medical schools, universities and their research. Mahidol and Chulalongkorn universities have been at the forefront and scientists at Chulalongkorn are fast at work on a COVID-19 vaccine. Thailand also has successful attempts in conducting large clinical vaccine trials, including treatments for HIV.- The Chula-COVID-19, a prototype vaccine being developed through mRNA method -Experience with pandemics is another key to Thailand’s response to COVID -19. Since the 1990s, the Kingdom has a sterling record of protecting its people from SARS, MERS, Avian Influenza, and other viruses. Its public health professionals have learned from every outbreak or potential threat and sharpened their skills and protocols. But they didn’t do it completely alone.Partnerships have also been essential. Most Americans don’t realize that the Center for Disease Control’s largest office outside the United States is in Bangkok. And for 60 years, the U.S. Armed Forces Research Institute of Medical Sciences in Thailand has worked with the Kingdom’s doctors and scientists to prevent, control and cure diseases such as malaria, tuberculosis, dengue fever, and HIV/AIDS.But the most important partnership of all is between Thailand’s people, from top to bottom. In the 1970s, when the public health infrastructure was still limited, the government filled the gaps with a program of Village Health Volunteers. In every community, someone was trained in basic health care. That person would relay health information to their neighbors, check on the ill and the elderly, keep family health records, and act as an interface with clinics or hospitals in the province.Today, the WHO hails them as the “unsung heroes” of the COVID-19 response. The roughly one million Village Health Volunteers are serving as sentinels to spot, prevent, track and trace COVID-19 infections in their communities. Sometimes they are at risk of contracting the illness themselves. ‘I do it because I want to help my neighbors,” 60-year-old volunteer Arunrat Rukthin in Nong Khai province told Khaosod newspaper. “The Kingdom’s COVID-19 success was built on this record of cooperation between public health authorities and civil society that goes back 50 years,” wrote professor Walden Bello.As in many countries, politics can be divisive. But Thailand adopted a wise approach, acting early and decisively, and letting public health authorities take the lead. Those decisions engendered trust. As a result, when the government ordered a soft lockdown and a curfew, issued rules on wearing masks and appealed for unity and cooperation on other preventive measures, it got it. &nbsp;Thailand’s success in tackling COVID-19 can provide worthwhile lessons. The Kingdom doesn’t have the wealth or resources comparable to developed nations. &nbsp;But by adopting an honest, practical, and science-based approach, leadership won the trust and cooperation of the people who responded as a community. Doctors and scientists warn that a second wave of the virus could strike Thailand. If it does, Thailand and its people will be up to the challenge.Powered by Froala Editor

How Thailand turned the tide on COVID-19

<img src="https://thailandnow-dev.sgp1.digitaloceanspaces.com/production/xfUCFa8bY_1602590376429.png" style="width: 1000px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Scientifically, smiling can create a chemical reaction in the brain and make people happy. &nbsp;In other words, smiling can trick your brain into happiness. When you feel stressed, tensed, and weary, smiling can help release tension and let out negative thoughts, so a smile is actually a remedy, or therapy for the mind. <img src="https://thailandnow-dev.sgp1.digitaloceanspaces.com/production/cvIfaAvum_1602590427073.png" style="width: 1000px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"> Amazingly, smiles are so abundant in Thailand, as they are on the face of the Thais. Everywhere you go in Thailand, you will be treated with a natural happy smile. Thais are specialists in smiling happily, as it comes naturally, so possibly smiling genes are embedded in our DNA.Thailand is known as the “Land of Smiles”. From airport officials to public transport staff, from salespersons in big department stores to street food vendors selling juicy grilled pork and sticky rice, from elderly people to young kids, smiles are everywhere.For the past few decades, the Thai “smile” has been widely used in promotional campaigns to attract foreign tourists. It is not a marketing tool created for promotional purposes, but very much part of the cultural identity of Thailand, reflecting the Thais’ unique characteristics - friendliness, helpfulness, care, kindness and thoughtfulness.&nbsp;Why do Thais smile?Thai culture is very open. Thais are easy-going, friendly and sweet by nature. They love fun and humour. Found everywhere, the smile signals a relaxed way of life, friendship, and welcome, and makes Thai culture unique.When asked to define the outstanding characteristics of Thai culture, Monthon Kasantikul, a Thai blogger and the owner of the “I roam alone” YouTube channel, who has travelled the world solo and witnessed many different cultures, is quick to answer “Nam Chai (generosity and helpfulness, which can be literally translated to “water from the heart”). and Yim (smile)”.“Thais are so generous. Wherever I go in Thailand, people are so helpful. Smiles are an outstanding feature of the Thai people. The smile is charming. I bring smiles with me everywhere I travel. What I get back are friendship and happiness,” Monthon said with that famed big smile creasing her face.Smile even when in a difficult situationThe smile is an integral part of the Thai way of life and culture. In the Thai dictionary published by the Royal Institute in 1999, there are as many as 28 words related to smile or “yim” in Thai. Half of them are about enjoyment and happiness, while the rest refers to a reaction in a difficult or unpleasant situation.&nbsp;Have you ever watched a tough sporting competition where the athletes are under loads of stress and pressure? Can you guess which team is Thai? Of course, the one with smiles. When they win, they smile. When they lose, they smile. When something goes wrong, Thais smile.Many people probably cannot understand this phenomenon. But to Thais, it is perfectly normal. Smiles come naturally.<img src="https://thailandnow-dev.sgp1.digitaloceanspaces.com/production/k16SvbzkJ_1602590465612.png" style="width: 1000px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"> In a sporting competition, when the players smile, they are telling themselves to be relaxed. At the same time, they are communicating with other team players that it is okay to make mistakes. We are a team; we have to make it happen. When they win, the smile means a big reward. When they lose, they smile to cheer up the others and congratulate the other team.In Thai culture, which is strongly influenced by Buddhism, forgiveness and care are deep-rooted. It is a peaceful culture that avoids confrontation or the expression of bad feelings. Smiling is a way to show politeness, care, and forgiveness. Smiling is also a mental therapy to help release tension when in stress or under pressure. So, it is not surprising to see us smile in difficult situations.Some research has confirmed that even a fake smile can reduce stress and blood pressure. A smile can be such a positive action in the sense that even faking one can trick your own mind into feeling happy and actually producing a genuine smile.It might be difficult for foreigners to understand right away what Thais are really thinking when they smile. The best way to understand this is to be open and try to look at things in the Thai context rather than using their own background and experience in judging. With an open heart and mind, you will eventually discover how profoundly spiritual and unique Thai culture is. Deep under the glamourous exterior, there is a meaningful resilience residing under every Thai smile. Powered by <a href="https://www.froala.com/wysiwyg-editor?pb=1" title="Froala Editor">Froala Editor</a>

There’s no place better than the country known as the “Land of Smiles” 

Scientifically, smiling can create a chemical reaction in the brain and make people happy. &nbsp;In other words, smiling can trick your brain into happiness. When you feel stressed, tensed, and weary, smiling can help release tension and let out negative thoughts, so a smile is actually a remedy, or therapy for the mind.Amazingly, smiles are so abundant in Thailand, as they are on the face of the Thais. Everywhere you go in Thailand, you will be treated with a natural happy smile. Thais are specialists in smiling happily, as it comes naturally, so possibly smiling genes are embedded in our DNA.Thailand is known as the “Land of Smiles”. From airport officials to public transport staff, from salespersons in big department stores to street food vendors selling juicy grilled pork and sticky rice, from elderly people to young kids, smiles are everywhere.For the past few decades, the Thai “smile” has been widely used in promotional campaigns to attract foreign tourists. It is not a marketing tool created for promotional purposes, but very much part of the cultural identity of Thailand, reflecting the Thais’ unique characteristics - friendliness, helpfulness, care, kindness and thoughtfulness.&nbsp;Why do Thais smile?Thai culture is very open. Thais are easy-going, friendly and sweet by nature. They love fun and humour. Found everywhere, the smile signals a relaxed way of life, friendship, and welcome, and makes Thai culture unique.When asked to define the outstanding characteristics of Thai culture, Monthon Kasantikul, a Thai blogger and the owner of the “I roam alone” YouTube channel, who has travelled the world solo and witnessed many different cultures, is quick to answer “Nam Chai (generosity and helpfulness, which can be literally translated to “water from the heart”). and Yim (smile)”.“Thais are so generous. Wherever I go in Thailand, people are so helpful. Smiles are an outstanding feature of the Thai people. The smile is charming. I bring smiles with me everywhere I travel. What I get back are friendship and happiness,” Monthon said with that famed big smile creasing her face.Smile even when in a difficult situationThe smile is an integral part of the Thai way of life and culture. In the Thai dictionary published by the Royal Institute in 1999, there are as many as 28 words related to smile or “yim” in Thai. Half of them are about enjoyment and happiness, while the rest refers to a reaction in a difficult or unpleasant situation.&nbsp;Have you ever watched a tough sporting competition where the athletes are under loads of stress and pressure? Can you guess which team is Thai? Of course, the one with smiles. When they win, they smile. When they lose, they smile. When something goes wrong, Thais smile.Many people probably cannot understand this phenomenon. But to Thais, it is perfectly normal. Smiles come naturally.In a sporting competition, when the players smile, they are telling themselves to be relaxed. At the same time, they are communicating with other team players that it is okay to make mistakes. We are a team; we have to make it happen. When they win, the smile means a big reward. When they lose, they smile to cheer up the others and congratulate the other team.In Thai culture, which is strongly influenced by Buddhism, forgiveness and care are deep-rooted. It is a peaceful culture that avoids confrontation or the expression of bad feelings. Smiling is a way to show politeness, care, and forgiveness. Smiling is also a mental therapy to help release tension when in stress or under pressure. So, it is not surprising to see us smile in difficult situations.Some research has confirmed that even a fake smile can reduce stress and blood pressure. A smile can be such a positive action in the sense that even faking one can trick your own mind into feeling happy and actually producing a genuine smile.It might be difficult for foreigners to understand right away what Thais are really thinking when they smile. The best way to understand this is to be open and try to look at things in the Thai context rather than using their own background and experience in judging. With an open heart and mind, you will eventually discover how profoundly spiritual and unique Thai culture is. Deep under the glamourous exterior, there is a meaningful resilience residing under every Thai smile.Powered by Froala Editor

Get Smiling Therapy from a specialist  

<h2> </h2><h2> </h2><h2>Thanks to growing delivery troop, more and more urban dwellers can enjoy their favourite from anywhere without going anywhere.</h2><hr>large is more. Kasikorn Research Center recorded a 41% growth in online food delivery in 2019 and expects the industry to grow by 78-84% in 2020. That may sound unrealistically high, but the “new normal“ brought to us by Covid-19 has made it real. The whole country was under a two-month lockdown and consumers became more concerned about infection, prompting them to stay home and rely more on food delivery.Recently, an online survey by the Electronic Transactions Development Agency (ETDA) conducted between March 5 and 15, 2020 also showed how popular the service is among different segment and why they love it.According to the survey, 85% of respondents were food delivery customers. About one half are members of Gen Y. And 40% of these young people used the service because they were worried about Covid-19 infections as compared to 30% of other age groups.&nbsp;<hr> Of all respondents, about 80% said the service saved on their travelling time while about 57% mentioned less queuing time. Spending also varied from one generation to another. While Gen X spends around 501-1,000 baht per time, Baby Boomers pay around 301-500 baht, and Gen Y and Gen Z spend less than 300 baht.The voice from the users also confirms that the delivery service fits perfectly with “new normal” life the Covid-19 has brought us.<img data-fr-image-pasted="true" src="https://thailandnow-dev.sgp1.digitaloceanspaces.com/production/74sBbLI8v_image.png" alt="https://thailandnow-dev.sgp1.digitaloceanspaces.com/production/74sBbLI8v_image.png" class="fr-fic fr-dii" style="width: 1000px;">In pre-Covid-19 times, an office worker in her mid-30s who asked to be referred to as Tai enjoyed having her lunch delivered as it meant she didn’t have to leave her desk and brave the hot sun and the queue. The service by the convenience store on the ground floor of her office building was also free.Delivery by a convenience store has made Tai’s work-from-home life during Covid-19 lock-down even smoother as she can’t cook. She can also work more efficiently as she doesn’t have to bother about going out for lunch.“When I can’t decide what to eat, I either walk to the store or scroll down the menu on the store’s app and place an order [to have the food or snack delivered] if I’m too busy,” said Tai.&nbsp;“It’s very convenient,” said Vipada who lives in Ploenchit, a business district of Bangkok. She regularly orders anything from fast food like pizzas and burgers to cooked-to-order Thai food from roadside shops across Bangkok.Her private yoga class was just over and the group having agreed on what they wanted for lunch, Vipada tapped the screen of her mobile phone a few times then announced that the meal would be delivered within half an hour, giving just enough time for everyone to get changed and ready for lunch. Thirty minutes later, the table was set and everyone was ready to dig into the freshly cooked food that was still warm.<img data-fr-image-pasted="true" src="https://thailandnow-dev.sgp1.digitaloceanspaces.com/production/EA6f_oS6G_image.png" alt="https://thailandnow-dev.sgp1.digitaloceanspaces.com/production/EA6f_oS6G_image.png" class="fr-fic fr-dii" style="width: 1000px;">Vipada and her friends are among millions of Bangkok residents making the most of the latest urban lifestyle. Costing only a small fee, life has never been easier as almost all the food on the menus of roadside shops or convenience stores can be delivered to your doorstep just by tapping the app on your smartphone. Ordering in has become more common both during and since the lockdown, as due to the coronavirus pandemic, Thais were encouraged to work from home&nbsp;and go out only for essential trips. More and more people have taken to relying on food deliveries whether by food delivery companies, restaurants or convenience stores services.However, on-demand food delivery isn’t the only service created to cater to the urban lifestyle. During the lockdown, convenience store chains began to introduce a similar service, delivering ready-to-eat food to the doorstep of any customers living close to their branches and helping people avoid non-essential trips.“I don’t have to set foot out of the house,” said a female customer in her 70s, standing behind the door of her residence as she paid for three lunchboxes. Within 100metres&nbsp;of her centrally-located house, there are at least one food shop, two coffee shops and two&nbsp;other convenience stores.Since 2015, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration has been reclaiming public space from illegal street vendors in 175 spots to improve the cityscape and food hygiene with the result that street food has become harder to find in certain areas, especially in the inner city. Many vendors have lost their former clientele while customers have needed to find new favourite food shops to replace the one that has disappeared.&nbsp;In a way, the service has supported local food vendors and provided job opportunities for the delivery people too, said Tai. &nbsp;Now the food can be delivered to customers on the other side of the city despite the bustling urban life, not just to regulars in the neighbourhood.In her view “It’s win-win-win; diners can order food from their favourite stalls that have relocated to other areas, vendors can promote their shops through the app and keep their business, and the delivery people have a job.”&nbsp;<img data-fr-image-pasted="true" src="https://thailandnow-dev.sgp1.digitaloceanspaces.com/production/93nCyvXzD_shutterstock_1561012655%20low.jpg" alt="https://thailandnow-dev.sgp1.digitaloceanspaces.com/production/93nCyvXzD_shutterstock_1561012655%20low.jpg" class="fr-fic fr-dii" style="width: 1000px;"> <img src="https://thailandnow-dev.sgp1.digitaloceanspaces.com/production/9Dk_jKyOp_Picture1.jpg" style="width: 1000px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">-Delivery troops in Bangkok-&nbsp;Powered by <a href="https://www.froala.com/wysiwyg-editor?pb=1" title="Froala Editor">Froala Editor</a>

Thanks to growing delivery troop, more and more urban dwellers can enjoy their favourite from anywhere without going anywhere.large is more. Kasikorn Research Center recorded a 41% growth in online food delivery in 2019 and expects the industry to grow by 78-84% in 2020. That may sound unrealistically high, but the “new normal“ brought to us by Covid-19 has made it real. The whole country was under a two-month lockdown and consumers became more concerned about infection, prompting them to stay home and rely more on food delivery.Recently, an online survey by the Electronic Transactions Development Agency (ETDA) conducted between March 5 and 15, 2020 also showed how popular the service is among different segment and why they love it.According to the survey, 85% of respondents were food delivery customers. About one half are members of Gen Y. And 40% of these young people used the service because they were worried about Covid-19 infections as compared to 30% of other age groups.&nbsp;Of all respondents, about 80% said the service saved on their travelling time while about 57% mentioned less queuing time. Spending also varied from one generation to another. While Gen X spends around 501-1,000 baht per time, Baby Boomers pay around 301-500 baht, and Gen Y and Gen Z spend less than 300 baht.The voice from the users also confirms that the delivery service fits perfectly with “new normal” life the Covid-19 has brought us.In pre-Covid-19 times, an office worker in her mid-30s who asked to be referred to as Tai enjoyed having her lunch delivered as it meant she didn’t have to leave her desk and brave the hot sun and the queue. The service by the convenience store on the ground floor of her office building was also free.Delivery by a convenience store has made Tai’s work-from-home life during Covid-19 lock-down even smoother as she can’t cook. She can also work more efficiently as she doesn’t have to bother about going out for lunch.“When I can’t decide what to eat, I either walk to the store or scroll down the menu on the store’s app and place an order [to have the food or snack delivered] if I’m too busy,” said Tai.&nbsp;“It’s very convenient,” said Vipada who lives in Ploenchit, a business district of Bangkok. She regularly orders anything from fast food like pizzas and burgers to cooked-to-order Thai food from roadside shops across Bangkok.Her private yoga class was just over and the group having agreed on what they wanted for lunch, Vipada tapped the screen of her mobile phone a few times then announced that the meal would be delivered within half an hour, giving just enough time for everyone to get changed and ready for lunch. Thirty minutes later, the table was set and everyone was ready to dig into the freshly cooked food that was still warm.Vipada and her friends are among millions of Bangkok residents making the most of the latest urban lifestyle. Costing only a small fee, life has never been easier as almost all the food on the menus of roadside shops or convenience stores can be delivered to your doorstep just by tapping the app on your smartphone. Ordering in has become more common both during and since the lockdown, as due to the coronavirus pandemic, Thais were encouraged to work from home&nbsp;and go out only for essential trips. More and more people have taken to relying on food deliveries whether by food delivery companies, restaurants or convenience stores services.However, on-demand food delivery isn’t the only service created to cater to the urban lifestyle. During the lockdown, convenience store chains began to introduce a similar service, delivering ready-to-eat food to the doorstep of any customers living close to their branches and helping people avoid non-essential trips.“I don’t have to set foot out of the house,” said a female customer in her 70s, standing behind the door of her residence as she paid for three lunchboxes. Within 100metres&nbsp;of her centrally-located house, there are at least one food shop, two coffee shops and two&nbsp;other convenience stores.Since 2015, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration has been reclaiming public space from illegal street vendors in 175 spots to improve the cityscape and food hygiene with the result that street food has become harder to find in certain areas, especially in the inner city. Many vendors have lost their former clientele while customers have needed to find new favourite food shops to replace the one that has disappeared.&nbsp;In a way, the service has supported local food vendors and provided job opportunities for the delivery people too, said Tai. &nbsp;Now the food can be delivered to customers on the other side of the city despite the bustling urban life, not just to regulars in the neighbourhood.In her view “It’s win-win-win; diners can order food from their favourite stalls that have relocated to other areas, vendors can promote their shops through the app and keep their business, and the delivery people have a job.”&nbsp;-Delivery troops in Bangkok-&nbsp;Powered by Froala Editor

Foods at warp speed…almost 

<h2>Literary gems that offer a glimpse of Thailand’s multiculturism and changing sociopolitical landscape&nbsp;</h2>It’s hard sometimes to make sense of a country, especially one like Thailand that boasts a long history and a rich, diverse culture. One entertaining way to put the pieces of the puzzle together is to look at Thailand and its people from the perspective of its artists. Bookworms should be happy to discover that there are substantial literary works by renowned and respected Thai authors available in English (and possibly many other languages too) that showcase the changing sociopolitical landscape at different times&nbsp;through characters that represent people of varying social status and ethnicity in Thailand. Here are some suggestions.&nbsp;<h3>Ghosts (1957) by Seni Saowaphong&nbsp;</h3><img src="https://thailandnow-dev.sgp1.digitaloceanspaces.com/production/JvoszcWOP_1602588045425.png" alt="https://thailandnow-dev.sgp1.digitaloceanspaces.com/production/x7RTM2i4B_IxFiRDKLq_Thailand_between_the_lines_momok.png" class="fr-fic fr-dii" style="width: 1000px;">Momok (Pisaj)Text in Bahasa IndonesiaGhosts (Thai name pee sard) is considered one of the greatest and most impactful works in Thai modern literature. Written by Seni Saowaphong (the penname of Sakchai Bamrungpong, 1918-2014), a diplomat, author and journalist recognised by the National Artist in Literature award in 1990, the novel criticises the feudal system and old values through a new-generation Thai couple who wants everyone to be treated equally, regardless of their socio-economic status. Vocal, provocative and clearly ahead of its time, Ghosts became a national hit after the 14 October 1973 political uprising backed by student activists.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h3>The Judgment (1981) by Chart Korbjitti</h3><img src="https://thailandnow-dev.sgp1.digitaloceanspaces.com/production/_IBgiOA9s_1602588045335.png" alt="https://thailandnow-dev.sgp1.digitaloceanspaces.com/production/EyKcXMmFj_OLWkP33Uy_Thailand_between_the_lines_The_Judgment.png" class="fr-fic fr-dii" style="width: 1000px;">The Judgment, or kam pi paksa in Thai, is a gripping and tragic story of a simple decent man, Fak, whose life goes into a downwards spiral just because of how society projects him – the classic case of an outsider being judged and cast out by others, which still resonates well almost 40 years after its release. The book won Chart the S.E.A. Write Award. The Southeast Asian Writers Award has been presented annually since 1979 to poets and writers of Southeast Asia.If you like Chart’s honest yet intriguing writing style and his detailed observance of the simple, mundane things in life, you might want to check out his other stellar novel, Time (1993) or wela, which earned him a second S.E.A. Write Award in 1994. This bittersweet tale tells an intimate story of aging and being helplessly senile through the eyes of young adults well before the “aging society” became a pressing issue in Thailand and many parts of Asia. If you’re over forty, this one will definitely make you laugh till you cry – or perhaps also the other way round.&nbsp;Chart, born 1954, was named a National Artist in Literature in 2004, and was among the honorees of the inaugural Silpathorn Award, given to Thai contemporary artists.&nbsp;<h3>A Child of the Northeast (1987) by Kampoon Boontawee</h3><img src="https://thailandnow-dev.sgp1.digitaloceanspaces.com/production/QnRe78Chk_1602588045698.png" alt="https://thailandnow-dev.sgp1.digitaloceanspaces.com/production/lKgjrDynt_9_d5nhzce_Thailand_between_the_lines_A_child_of_the_northeast.png" class="fr-fic fr-dii" style="width: 1000px;">Kampoon Boontawee, Thailand's first S.E.A Write winner and 2004 National Artist in Literature, based his novel on memories of his own childhood in Isaan, the northeast of Thailand, in times of drought and poverty. Luk Isaan, to give it its Thai title, portrays the hard life of the underprivileged Isaan people in remote areas through the eyes of an innocent child. This novel was selected by Thai scholars as one among the 100 good books recommended for Thais to read. It has been translated into several foreign languages, including Japanese and French.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h3>Letters from Thailand (1969) by Botan&nbsp;</h3><img src="https://thailandnow-dev.sgp1.digitaloceanspaces.com/production/-X7mMIL4T_1602588046047.png" alt="https://thailandnow-dev.sgp1.digitaloceanspaces.com/production/7dFjdoyMF_vmYq-HDz3_Thailand_between_the_lines_Letter_from_Thailand.png" class="fr-fic fr-dii" style="width: 1000px;">Winner of the now defunct SEATO Prize for Thai Literature, jod mai jak muang Thai is the story of Tan Suang U, a young man who leaves China to make his fortune in Thailand at the end of World War II, and ends up marrying, raising a family and operating a successful business. The novel unfolds through his letters to his beloved mother in China.&nbsp;Penned by Botan, real name Supa Sirisingh, the novel is one of the few that portrays the immigrant Chinese experience in urban Thailand. Supa’s Chinese ancestry inspired her to write the novel and drew on the details, atmosphere, and certain traits from the Chinese community in which she lived to show how Chinese immigrants struggle to fit into the Thai culture while at the same time trying to uphold their Chinese heritage.&nbsp;The book has been translated into ten languages but was never formally published in Western markets. Awarded National Artist in Literature in 1999, Botan, now in her 70s, penned more than 60 novels with mostly strong female characters, many of which have been successfully adapted for television and film.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h3>The Four Reigns (1953) by Kukrit Pramoj</h3><img src="https://thailandnow-dev.sgp1.digitaloceanspaces.com/production/MWcDU2IRj_1602588046134.png" alt="https://thailandnow-dev.sgp1.digitaloceanspaces.com/production/rcL4xOQa6_QN0imOVAU_Thailand_between_the_lines_Four_Reigns.png" class="fr-fic fr-dii" style="width: 1000px;">An all-time classic and national gem, The Four Reign, or see pan din, is a portrayal of the lives of minor nobilities during Thailand’s most volatile and changeable sociopolitical period that spans the reigns of four kings, from King Rama V (1868 – 1910) to King Rama VIII (1935 – 1946) as well as WWI and WW II.&nbsp;Penned by master storyteller, scholar, politician and professor MR Kukrit Pramoj (1911-1995) whose royal lineage and foreign education allowed him to delve so deeply into the lives of the nobility from a personal standpoint, the novel, written originally as a serial for the Thai daily Siam Rath, follows Ploy from her childhood at the inner court to adulthood and married life, where she struggles to adapt to modern life and values. Readers observe economic and social changes, coups, political turmoil, abdication and tragedy through her eyes while at the same time experiencing the sophisticated Thai ways of life of the bygone era.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h3>Very Thai: Everyday Popular Culture (2004) by Philip Cornwel-Smith</h3><img src="https://thailandnow-dev.sgp1.digitaloceanspaces.com/production/8LMm_v1FnD_1602588046354.png" alt="https://thailandnow-dev.sgp1.digitaloceanspaces.com/production/8EnbXnbpE_9FYJXMyP9_Thailand_between_the_linesVery_thai.png" class="fr-fic fr-dii" style="width: 1000px;">If you’re wondering what “Thainess” is all about, the answers are probably in this book. Thailand-based, British author Philip Cornwel-Smith celebrates Thai pop and folk culture beyond the traditional icons to reveal the everyday Thai culture, way of life and anything and everything Thai. An essential and insightful guide for anyone navigating a life in Thailand. The writer released the sequel, Very Bangkok: In the City of the Senses, earlier this year, that offers an alternative look at subcultures of his second home in Bangkok – the city of mesmerising juxtaposition and wonders.&nbsp;&nbsp;Powered by <a href="https://www.froala.com/wysiwyg-editor?pb=1" title="Froala Editor">Froala Editor</a>

Literary gems that offer a glimpse of Thailand’s multiculturism and changing sociopolitical landscape&nbsp;It’s hard sometimes to make sense of a country, especially one like Thailand that boasts a long history and a rich, diverse culture. One entertaining way to put the pieces of the puzzle together is to look at Thailand and its people from the perspective of its artists. Bookworms should be happy to discover that there are substantial literary works by renowned and respected Thai authors available in English (and possibly many other languages too) that showcase the changing sociopolitical landscape at different times&nbsp;through characters that represent people of varying social status and ethnicity in Thailand. Here are some suggestions.&nbsp;Ghosts (1957) by Seni Saowaphong&nbsp;Momok (Pisaj)Text in Bahasa IndonesiaGhosts (Thai name pee sard) is considered one of the greatest and most impactful works in Thai modern literature. Written by Seni Saowaphong (the penname of Sakchai Bamrungpong, 1918-2014), a diplomat, author and journalist recognised by the National Artist in Literature award in 1990, the novel criticises the feudal system and old values through a new-generation Thai couple who wants everyone to be treated equally, regardless of their socio-economic status. Vocal, provocative and clearly ahead of its time, Ghosts became a national hit after the 14 October 1973 political uprising backed by student activists.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Judgment (1981) by Chart KorbjittiThe Judgment, or kam pi paksa in Thai, is a gripping and tragic story of a simple decent man, Fak, whose life goes into a downwards spiral just because of how society projects him – the classic case of an outsider being judged and cast out by others, which still resonates well almost 40 years after its release. The book won Chart the S.E.A. Write Award. The Southeast Asian Writers Award has been presented annually since 1979 to poets and writers of Southeast Asia.If you like Chart’s honest yet intriguing writing style and his detailed observance of the simple, mundane things in life, you might want to check out his other stellar novel, Time (1993) or wela, which earned him a second S.E.A. Write Award in 1994. This bittersweet tale tells an intimate story of aging and being helplessly senile through the eyes of young adults well before the “aging society” became a pressing issue in Thailand and many parts of Asia. If you’re over forty, this one will definitely make you laugh till you cry – or perhaps also the other way round.&nbsp;Chart, born 1954, was named a National Artist in Literature in 2004, and was among the honorees of the inaugural Silpathorn Award, given to Thai contemporary artists.&nbsp;A Child of the Northeast (1987) by Kampoon BoontaweeKampoon Boontawee, Thailand's first S.E.A Write winner and 2004 National Artist in Literature, based his novel on memories of his own childhood in Isaan, the northeast of Thailand, in times of drought and poverty. Luk Isaan, to give it its Thai title, portrays the hard life of the underprivileged Isaan people in remote areas through the eyes of an innocent child. This novel was selected by Thai scholars as one among the 100 good books recommended for Thais to read. It has been translated into several foreign languages, including Japanese and French.&nbsp;&nbsp;Letters from Thailand (1969) by Botan&nbsp;Winner of the now defunct SEATO Prize for Thai Literature, jod mai jak muang Thai is the story of Tan Suang U, a young man who leaves China to make his fortune in Thailand at the end of World War II, and ends up marrying, raising a family and operating a successful business. The novel unfolds through his letters to his beloved mother in China.&nbsp;Penned by Botan, real name Supa Sirisingh, the novel is one of the few that portrays the immigrant Chinese experience in urban Thailand. Supa’s Chinese ancestry inspired her to write the novel and drew on the details, atmosphere, and certain traits from the Chinese community in which she lived to show how Chinese immigrants struggle to fit into the Thai culture while at the same time trying to uphold their Chinese heritage.&nbsp;The book has been translated into ten languages but was never formally published in Western markets. Awarded National Artist in Literature in 1999, Botan, now in her 70s, penned more than 60 novels with mostly strong female characters, many of which have been successfully adapted for television and film.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Four Reigns (1953) by Kukrit PramojAn all-time classic and national gem, The Four Reign, or see pan din, is a portrayal of the lives of minor nobilities during Thailand’s most volatile and changeable sociopolitical period that spans the reigns of four kings, from King Rama V (1868 – 1910) to King Rama VIII (1935 – 1946) as well as WWI and WW II.&nbsp;Penned by master storyteller, scholar, politician and professor MR Kukrit Pramoj (1911-1995) whose royal lineage and foreign education allowed him to delve so deeply into the lives of the nobility from a personal standpoint, the novel, written originally as a serial for the Thai daily Siam Rath, follows Ploy from her childhood at the inner court to adulthood and married life, where she struggles to adapt to modern life and values. Readers observe economic and social changes, coups, political turmoil, abdication and tragedy through her eyes while at the same time experiencing the sophisticated Thai ways of life of the bygone era.&nbsp;&nbsp;Very Thai: Everyday Popular Culture (2004) by Philip Cornwel-SmithIf you’re wondering what “Thainess” is all about, the answers are probably in this book. Thailand-based, British author Philip Cornwel-Smith celebrates Thai pop and folk culture beyond the traditional icons to reveal the everyday Thai culture, way of life and anything and everything Thai. An essential and insightful guide for anyone navigating a life in Thailand. The writer released the sequel, Very Bangkok: In the City of the Senses, earlier this year, that offers an alternative look at subcultures of his second home in Bangkok – the city of mesmerising juxtaposition and wonders.&nbsp;&nbsp;Powered by Froala Editor

Thailand between the lines 

After almost three decades of laying abandoned, an unfinished bridge over the Chao Phraya River has been completed and been given a new life - as a skypark overlooking the river.Since opening at the end of June, Saphan Duan has become one of the hottest spots in Bangkok, not least because for Bangkok residents, finding a public space to enjoy, especially by the river, is a major challenge.Hundreds of local residents now take part in new activities in the morning and late afternoon. They stroll along this unique skypark, sit on the “ringside seats”, revel in the soft breezes and watch the sunrise and sunset over the Chao Phraya River.Walk along the bridge and you’ll meet couples or groups of visitors taking photos as well as lone strollers snapping selfies. From the looks of admiration on their faces, it’s obvious that the minimalist style of the concrete bridge is much appreciated.&nbsp;<img src="https://thailandnow-dev.sgp1.digitaloceanspaces.com/production/XKVJDoxd6_1602586812947.png" alt="https://thailandnow-dev.sgp1.digitaloceanspaces.com/production/RllZSUXsr_J2BAnowjQ_image.png" class="fr-fic fr-dii" style="width: 1000px;">More interestingly, the opening of the bridge has not only given a modern boost to the traditional Thonburi neighbourhood, but also become the link connecting the Thonburi and Phra Nakhon sides of the river.&nbsp;Nicknamed Saphan Duan, which literally means ‘crippled bridge’, the structure was originally planned as the country’s first skytrain, the Lavalin project, which received approval in 1984. However, the structure was left ‘crippled’ when the skytrain project was abandoned in 1992.<img src="https://thailandnow-dev.sgp1.digitaloceanspaces.com/production/2bAyCEN-u_1602586803927.png" alt="https://thailandnow-dev.sgp1.digitaloceanspaces.com/production/_KgUXS-py_VOj0IcuVC_image.png" class="fr-fic fr-dii" style="width: 1000px;">-the Lavalin project in 1984-&nbsp;That all changed two years ago when the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) wanted to give a facelift to the riverside neighbourhood and turn the unfinished bridge into a new landmark, ready to celebrate the 250th anniversary of Bangkok in 2030.The project is similar to the shelved Garden Bridge project over the River Thames in London in terms of function. How it has come about, however, is like The High Line in New York, a 2.3km elevated linear park, converted from an abandoned rail trail.The conversion of an old structure is a worthy addition to the city’s leisure areas but the BMA knows only too well that the ratio of green space in the city is well below the recommendation of the World Health Organization of 9 sqm per individual. Compared with other metropolitan cities around the world, such as 23.1 sqm in New York City and 66 sqm in Singapore, Bangkok has one of the lowest ratios. The conversion is an effort to get rid of that image and to increase the ratio of green space from the current 6.99 sqm to 10 by 2030.Dubbed a sky park, the structure is in fact a pedestrian bridge and an alternative route for people commuting between the Thonburi and Phra Nakhon sides.&nbsp;The bridge is about 280 metres long and 8.5 metres wide and is decorated with a variety of plants from herbs to tropical trees, perfect for the warm weather of Bangkok. The path connects Chaloem Phrakiet Forest Park on the Thonburi side and King Prajadhipok Park in the Phra Nakhon side.&nbsp;It is reserved for pedestrians so cycling on the bridge is prohibited, though walking a bike across the river is allowed.&nbsp;<img src="https://thailandnow-dev.sgp1.digitaloceanspaces.com/production/G3t9DRYWy_1602586811435.png" alt="https://thailandnow-dev.sgp1.digitaloceanspaces.com/production/vD4a4Wsvu_geO2Gz-uW_image.png" class="fr-fic fr-dii" style="width: 1000px;">&nbsp;<h2>Scene it!</h2>Phra Phuttha Yodfa Bridge or Memorial Bridge has always been a popular spot for locals to hang out and sit down – on the floor or steel bars – to watch sunset or get the soft breeze. Thanks to its unique steel architecture, rather than concrete like others, the bridge is a perfect place for local people to sit and watch sunset through the steel spokes.If you are looking for a place to enjoy the riverscape and soft wind, check out one of the spots below. Some of them are library or shopping mall, but all is free and all are welcome!&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>On Phra Nakhon Side</h2>&nbsp;<img src="https://thailandnow-dev.sgp1.digitaloceanspaces.com/production/pF049F8ZR6_1602586816094.png" alt="https://thailandnow-dev.sgp1.digitaloceanspaces.com/production/CrV1GNpQY_GRa6wcfu2_image.png" class="fr-fic fr-dii" style="width: 1000px;">&nbsp;<img src="https://thailandnow-dev.sgp1.digitaloceanspaces.com/production/qVPvBBkBB_1602586816963.png" alt="https://thailandnow-dev.sgp1.digitaloceanspaces.com/production/2Qh-2HyH2_zD5uq9Taj_image.png" class="fr-fic fr-dii" style="width: 1000px;">&nbsp;<h2>On Thonburi Side</h2><img src="https://thailandnow-dev.sgp1.digitaloceanspaces.com/production/UtxWTYBN3_1602586815429.png" alt="https://thailandnow-dev.sgp1.digitaloceanspaces.com/production/di6zrw3e7_BRbt0OGb9_image.png" class="fr-fic fr-dii" style="width: 1000px;">&nbsp;<img src="https://thailandnow-dev.sgp1.digitaloceanspaces.com/production/_b4MdklT7_1602586820875.png" alt="https://thailandnow-dev.sgp1.digitaloceanspaces.com/production/8tL6YJaf2_qBDY_GRbi_image.png" class="fr-fic fr-dii" style="width: 2000px;"> Powered by <a href="https://www.froala.com/wysiwyg-editor?pb=1" title="Froala Editor">Froala Editor</a>

After almost three decades of laying abandoned, an unfinished bridge over the Chao Phraya River has been completed and been given a new life - as a skypark overlooking the river.Since opening at the end of June, Saphan Duan has become one of the hottest spots in Bangkok, not least because for Bangkok residents, finding a public space to enjoy, especially by the river, is a major challenge.Hundreds of local residents now take part in new activities in the morning and late afternoon. They stroll along this unique skypark, sit on the “ringside seats”, revel in the soft breezes and watch the sunrise and sunset over the Chao Phraya River.Walk along the bridge and you’ll meet couples or groups of visitors taking photos as well as lone strollers snapping selfies. From the looks of admiration on their faces, it’s obvious that the minimalist style of the concrete bridge is much appreciated.&nbsp;More interestingly, the opening of the bridge has not only given a modern boost to the traditional Thonburi neighbourhood, but also become the link connecting the Thonburi and Phra Nakhon sides of the river.&nbsp;Nicknamed Saphan Duan, which literally means ‘crippled bridge’, the structure was originally planned as the country’s first skytrain, the Lavalin project, which received approval in 1984. However, the structure was left ‘crippled’ when the skytrain project was abandoned in 1992.-the Lavalin project in 1984-&nbsp;That all changed two years ago when the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) wanted to give a facelift to the riverside neighbourhood and turn the unfinished bridge into a new landmark, ready to celebrate the 250th anniversary of Bangkok in 2030.The project is similar to the shelved Garden Bridge project over the River Thames in London in terms of function. How it has come about, however, is like The High Line in New York, a 2.3km elevated linear park, converted from an abandoned rail trail.The conversion of an old structure is a worthy addition to the city’s leisure areas but the BMA knows only too well that the ratio of green space in the city is well below the recommendation of the World Health Organization of 9 sqm per individual. Compared with other metropolitan cities around the world, such as 23.1 sqm in New York City and 66 sqm in Singapore, Bangkok has one of the lowest ratios. The conversion is an effort to get rid of that image and to increase the ratio of green space from the current 6.99 sqm to 10 by 2030.Dubbed a sky park, the structure is in fact a pedestrian bridge and an alternative route for people commuting between the Thonburi and Phra Nakhon sides.&nbsp;The bridge is about 280 metres long and 8.5 metres wide and is decorated with a variety of plants from herbs to tropical trees, perfect for the warm weather of Bangkok. The path connects Chaloem Phrakiet Forest Park on the Thonburi side and King Prajadhipok Park in the Phra Nakhon side.&nbsp;It is reserved for pedestrians so cycling on the bridge is prohibited, though walking a bike across the river is allowed.&nbsp;&nbsp;Scene it!Phra Phuttha Yodfa Bridge or Memorial Bridge has always been a popular spot for locals to hang out and sit down – on the floor or steel bars – to watch sunset or get the soft breeze. Thanks to its unique steel architecture, rather than concrete like others, the bridge is a perfect place for local people to sit and watch sunset through the steel spokes.If you are looking for a place to enjoy the riverscape and soft wind, check out one of the spots below. Some of them are library or shopping mall, but all is free and all are welcome!&nbsp;&nbsp;On Phra Nakhon Side&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;On Thonburi Side&nbsp;Powered by Froala Editor

A ‘Crippled’ Bridge Finds Its Legs 

When a sudden craving for Kanom Jeen Nam-ngiao, a Northern Thai dish, struck Siwa earlier this year, she immediately started scrolling down her Facebook page. She wasn’t looking for a food shop to buy the ready-to-eat dish, but rather searching for a vendor in the north who could supply her with a particular ingredient to cook it.“It’s not that the ingredient I needed is rare, but you need to know where to buy it in Bangkok,” says Siwa, who loves cooking as much as eating. She was looking for dok ngiao or red cotton flower and quickly found an online shop from which she could order the flower and other ingredients, including the paste for the dish.<img data-fr-image-pasted="true" src="https://thailandnow-dev.sgp1.digitaloceanspaces.com/production/xL0VgwKAe_HJ_CrcsC-_shutterstock_1582818496_0%20low.jpg" alt="https://thailandnow-dev.sgp1.digitaloceanspaces.com/production/xL0VgwKAe_HJ_CrcsC-_shutterstock_1582818496_0%20low.jpg" class="fr-fic fr-dii" style="width: 1000px;">&nbsp;- Kanom Jeen Nam-Ngiao, The tradition northern Thai dish-&nbsp;Back in the days before COVID-19, Siwa knew she could get the red cotton flower at Or Tor Kor Market (Marketing Organization for Farmers) and the ingredients she needed for Northeastern or Southern dishes at Huay Kwang morning market. But with the country under lockdown, having everything delivered to her doorstep was much more convenient.The recent lockdown has had an enormous economic impact. But it’s also undeniable that staying at home has given everyone a lot of free time and that has led to the creation of a platform for the exchange of culinary culture on social media.Calling herself an adventurous foodie and having tried countless regional dishesthanks to friends hailing from all around the country, Siwa was delighted by a new find – keropok lekor or fish sausage, a traditional Malay fish cracker snack. “I’d never heard of it before,” she says.<img data-fr-image-pasted="true" src="https://thailandnow-dev.sgp1.digitaloceanspaces.com/production/U87KG-JMJ_-jB4dizM0_keropok%20low.jpg" alt="https://thailandnow-dev.sgp1.digitaloceanspaces.com/production/U87KG-JMJ_-jB4dizM0_keropok%20low.jpg" class="fr-fic fr-dii" style="width: 1000px;">-Keropok Lekor: Malay Fish Cracker Snack-Forced to stay at home, many people had so much time on their hands that they turned to computers and social media. Some started to learn how to cook&nbsp;or bake from vloggers and also looked for new recipes or old dishes, to ease the boredom of being “locked up” at home. New digital market places have indeed fed the lust for exciting new delicacies and led to the rediscovering of rich culinary culture from Thailand’s olden days.“I’d always wanted to try natural sago again but could never find it in the market until a few [Facebook] advertisements popped up during the lockdown,” says Penn, another adventurous gourmet. Growing up with sago, which is made from starch, she never forgot the unique taste and texture of the natural sago she’d tasted in Myanmar a few years ago.Those who used to work or study in Bangkok and had moved back to their hometowns were savvy both about the technology&nbsp;and the market. With everything closed during&nbsp;lockdown, a huge surplus of ingredients and dishes that were previously supplied to local markets and restaurants started to build up, forcing local suppliers to look for a new way to sell their products.&nbsp;So they started to advertise “the oversupply”&nbsp;from their region on social media. Meanwhile, urbanites stuck in a studio apartment in the city were turning to the same social media for new things to try.Universities started their own online marketplace while most housing estates tapped into their own closed groups where people can exchange products from their region as well as used items.Born and raised in the capital, Thee never paid much attention to food although he would try any new dishes once to see if he liked them. During the lockdown, though, Thee discovered a wealth of dishes and ingredients that were not available in the supermarket through the group chat of his housing estate.His neighbors were from around the country and they brought such items as sator or bitter beans and bai-liang&nbsp;or baegu&nbsp;from the South or durian grown in the volcano soil of the Northeast to Bangkok to sell to others at affordable prices. Those keen on cooking offered regional dishes, namely tam kanun, Northern-style jackfruit salad and gaeng hang-lay,&nbsp;Northern-style pork curry.<img data-fr-image-pasted="true" src="https://thailandnow-dev.sgp1.digitaloceanspaces.com/production/mn4ML6sRp_82tz3rCOo_Untitled-56-01.jpg" alt="https://thailandnow-dev.sgp1.digitaloceanspaces.com/production/mn4ML6sRp_82tz3rCOo_Untitled-56-01.jpg" class="fr-fic fr-dii" style="width: 1000px;">-Gaeng hang-lay, Northern-style pork curry.-“They are not that rare, but the online marketplace has become much more diverse and that has created a selling point,” says Thee, adding that the group usually offered organic produce or home-made dishes.And while the lockdown provided an opportunity for those living in the city to enjoy new things from different regions, it was also a good chance for those in provinces to offer low-profile but tasty ingredients and dishes.“I didn’t see any trend but thought it was a great opportunity to show off all the good things we have at home to outsiders,” says Asma from Satun.&nbsp;Over the past three years, she’s been offering organic produce, seafood and locally produced goods to people outside her province. About 80% of her customers are in Bangkok and the remainder from provinces with high-spending power, namely Chonburi and Rayong.Apart from local products like shrimp paste, she’s been selling pook-rak, a deep-fried crispy snack stuffed with fish,&nbsp;online. And it was snapped up really fast during the lockdown.“Anything that could be eaten immediately after opening the package sold well while everyone had to stay home. Anything the customers don’t have to cook or even turn on their stove went fast,” Asma says.Satun has never made it to the tourism map, Asma adds. Moreover, pook-rak was only previously known among residents of Satun and neighbouring provinces because it was only recently invented to add more valcooked from nutritious and safe ingredients too,” Jay said.Jay, a Yala native, couldn’t agree more. She started to offer locally grown and produced products, including khao-yam or Southern-style mixed rice with vegetables, keropok lemak and roti, through an online market initiated by her university.Her hometown is far away from the capital, and has never been a destination for any tourists. “Perhaps, this is the way to tell people that Yala has nice food which is cooked from nutritious and safe ingredients too,” Jay said.<img data-fr-image-pasted="true" src="https://thailandnow-dev.sgp1.digitaloceanspaces.com/production/dhpfV67tF_zFM_Mioji_kaoyum%20low.jpg" alt="https://thailandnow-dev.sgp1.digitaloceanspaces.com/production/dhpfV67tF_zFM_Mioji_kaoyum%20low.jpg" class="fr-fic fr-dii" style="width: 1000px;">-khao-yam or Southern-style mixed rice with vegetables-&nbsp;&nbsp;Powered by <a href="https://www.froala.com/wysiwyg-editor?pb=1" title="Froala Editor">Froala Editor</a>

When a sudden craving for Kanom Jeen Nam-ngiao, a Northern Thai dish, struck Siwa earlier this year, she immediately started scrolling down her Facebook page. She wasn’t looking for a food shop to buy the ready-to-eat dish, but rather searching for a vendor in the north who could supply her with a particular ingredient to cook it.“It’s not that the ingredient I needed is rare, but you need to know where to buy it in Bangkok,” says Siwa, who loves cooking as much as eating. She was looking for dok ngiao or red cotton flower and quickly found an online shop from which she could order the flower and other ingredients, including the paste for the dish.&nbsp;- Kanom Jeen Nam-Ngiao, The tradition northern Thai dish-&nbsp;Back in the days before COVID-19, Siwa knew she could get the red cotton flower at Or Tor Kor Market (Marketing Organization for Farmers) and the ingredients she needed for Northeastern or Southern dishes at Huay Kwang morning market. But with the country under lockdown, having everything delivered to her doorstep was much more convenient.The recent lockdown has had an enormous economic impact. But it’s also undeniable that staying at home has given everyone a lot of free time and that has led to the creation of a platform for the exchange of culinary culture on social media.Calling herself an adventurous foodie and having tried countless regional dishesthanks to friends hailing from all around the country, Siwa was delighted by a new find – keropok lekor or fish sausage, a traditional Malay fish cracker snack. “I’d never heard of it before,” she says.-Keropok Lekor: Malay Fish Cracker Snack-Forced to stay at home, many people had so much time on their hands that they turned to computers and social media. Some started to learn how to cook&nbsp;or bake from vloggers and also looked for new recipes or old dishes, to ease the boredom of being “locked up” at home. New digital market places have indeed fed the lust for exciting new delicacies and led to the rediscovering of rich culinary culture from Thailand’s olden days.“I’d always wanted to try natural sago again but could never find it in the market until a few [Facebook] advertisements popped up during the lockdown,” says Penn, another adventurous gourmet. Growing up with sago, which is made from starch, she never forgot the unique taste and texture of the natural sago she’d tasted in Myanmar a few years ago.Those who used to work or study in Bangkok and had moved back to their hometowns were savvy both about the technology&nbsp;and the market. With everything closed during&nbsp;lockdown, a huge surplus of ingredients and dishes that were previously supplied to local markets and restaurants started to build up, forcing local suppliers to look for a new way to sell their products.&nbsp;So they started to advertise “the oversupply”&nbsp;from their region on social media. Meanwhile, urbanites stuck in a studio apartment in the city were turning to the same social media for new things to try.Universities started their own online marketplace while most housing estates tapped into their own closed groups where people can exchange products from their region as well as used items.Born and raised in the capital, Thee never paid much attention to food although he would try any new dishes once to see if he liked them. During the lockdown, though, Thee discovered a wealth of dishes and ingredients that were not available in the supermarket through the group chat of his housing estate.His neighbors were from around the country and they brought such items as sator or bitter beans and bai-liang&nbsp;or baegu&nbsp;from the South or durian grown in the volcano soil of the Northeast to Bangkok to sell to others at affordable prices. Those keen on cooking offered regional dishes, namely tam kanun, Northern-style jackfruit salad and gaeng hang-lay,&nbsp;Northern-style pork curry.-Gaeng hang-lay, Northern-style pork curry.-“They are not that rare, but the online marketplace has become much more diverse and that has created a selling point,” says Thee, adding that the group usually offered organic produce or home-made dishes.And while the lockdown provided an opportunity for those living in the city to enjoy new things from different regions, it was also a good chance for those in provinces to offer low-profile but tasty ingredients and dishes.“I didn’t see any trend but thought it was a great opportunity to show off all the good things we have at home to outsiders,” says Asma from Satun.&nbsp;Over the past three years, she’s been offering organic produce, seafood and locally produced goods to people outside her province. About 80% of her customers are in Bangkok and the remainder from provinces with high-spending power, namely Chonburi and Rayong.Apart from local products like shrimp paste, she’s been selling pook-rak, a deep-fried crispy snack stuffed with fish,&nbsp;online. And it was snapped up really fast during the lockdown.“Anything that could be eaten immediately after opening the package sold well while everyone had to stay home. Anything the customers don’t have to cook or even turn on their stove went fast,” Asma says.Satun has never made it to the tourism map, Asma adds. Moreover, pook-rak was only previously known among residents of Satun and neighbouring provinces because it was only recently invented to add more valcooked from nutritious and safe ingredients too,” Jay said.Jay, a Yala native, couldn’t agree more. She started to offer locally grown and produced products, including khao-yam or Southern-style mixed rice with vegetables, keropok lemak and roti, through an online market initiated by her university.Her hometown is far away from the capital, and has never been a destination for any tourists. “Perhaps, this is the way to tell people that Yala has nice food which is cooked from nutritious and safe ingredients too,” Jay said.-khao-yam or Southern-style mixed rice with vegetables-&nbsp;&nbsp;Powered by Froala Editor

Return of the “Lost” Thai food During Coronavirus Pandemic 

Did you just enjoy your stay in Thailand and are now leaving the country with a heavy heart? Here is a rundown of the 7 things that you, as a visitor to Thailand, will probably miss when you go home, along with the 8th, the reason why you are probably coming back.1. The food<figure><img src="https://thailandnow-dev.sgp1.digitaloceanspaces.com/production/eay3bwZBu_shutterstock_731210413.jpg" class="fr-fic fr-dii"></figure>Whatever you eat in Thailand, except desserts, of course, is spicy. Neophytes to Thai food may find it “too hot”, but once you’ve acquired tolerance for that chilli kick, you will have a higher appreciation and regard for the national cuisine.Thai food is absolutely delicious, which you will realise once you have trained your palate to cope with the spiciness. In the meantime, whether you’re dining in an upscale restaurant or at food stalls in the street, don’t hesitate to ask for your meal to be toned down to suit your taste.&nbsp;Visitors come back to Thailand for the authentic dishes they miss so much at a fraction of the price they pay at Thai restaurants in their home countries.2. The night markets<figure><img src="https://thailandnow-dev.sgp1.digitaloceanspaces.com/production/DGYgU8xKJ_shutterstock_781347532.jpg" class="fr-fic fr-dii"></figure>As evening draws in and the temperature drops, Thais head to the night markets, usually just a group of makeshift stalls offering clothes, bags, shoes, accessories and plenty more besides. Wander around and you are sure to find some surprises including mysterious-looking amulets and interesting jewellery.3. Transportation<figure><img src="https://thailandnow-dev.sgp1.digitaloceanspaces.com/production/kKgjP247L_shutterstock_1444266617.jpg" class="fr-fic fr-dii"></figure>Modes of transportation in Thailand are varied and most cities offer a profusion of both modern and traditional transportation. Metropolitan Bangkok has one of the most modern elevated train and subway systems in the world. Railway travel is an experience in itself and air travel is top-notch.&nbsp;Meanwhile, along the streets, the mighty tuk-tuk&nbsp;still gets its share of attention. To avoid traffic, boat rides along the canals can be both stress-relieving and thrilling.&nbsp;4. The language<figure><img src="https://thailandnow-dev.sgp1.digitaloceanspaces.com/production/0ucMKZ36M_shutterstock_472150225.jpg" class="fr-fic fr-dii"></figure>The Thai language is very melodic, with varying intonations and nasal variations. But don’t be fooled! It may sound very monosyllabic but, in reality, a slight change in the way the tongue is placed gives an altogether different meaning to a word.To foreign ears, Thai sounds courteous, friendly, soothing, and most of all, accommodating.5. The temples<figure><img src="https://thailandnow-dev.sgp1.digitaloceanspaces.com/production/sdZVUN34S_shutterstock_698378932.jpg" class="fr-fic fr-dii"></figure>Thailand is synonymous with temples and vice versa. And who can resist the sight of these magnificent structures peering out from the rolling hills? They are stunning! Both imposing and majestic, temples bring serenity to the viewer. Going inside is a one-of-a-kind experience – a feeling beyond description!6. The beaches<figure><img src="https://thailandnow-dev.sgp1.digitaloceanspaces.com/production/Fu5LpL7kM_shutterstock_126333494.jpg" class="fr-fic fr-dii"></figure>In nearby Pattaya and the southern provinces, nature lovers enjoy sandy beaches and picture-perfect locations. For a more eclectic sand-and-sea enjoyment, Pattaya and its beaches are a must-visit. For a more esoteric and romantic excursion, Phuket, Krabi and Samui are the places to go.7. The festivals and celebrations<figure><img src="https://thailandnow-dev.sgp1.digitaloceanspaces.com/production/YAx_tHd8u_shutterstock_406706530.jpg" class="fr-fic fr-dii"></figure>Thailand has a celebration or reason for merry-making almost every month. The most popular is Songkran, the water festival that marks Thai New Year. It signals the start of summer and is celebrated by splashing people with water.&nbsp;&nbsp;Thailand has a celebration or reason for merry-making almost every month. The most popular is Songkran, the water festival that marks Thai New Year. It signals the start of summer and is celebrated by splashing people with water.&nbsp;These are the 7 things most visitors miss about Thailand. They are also the reasons why they come back. And the 8th reason?They come back to rekindle friendships built with the locals. It may be with the Thai noodle vendor, the girl selling handicrafts in the night market, the tuk-tuk driver who took them around, the neighbour who taught them the proper way to wai, the monk in the nearby temple, the girl selling Thai sweets at the beach, or the boy who doused them with water during Songkran. It’s easy to make friends in the Land of Smiles where the locals are amongst the friendliest folk on Earth.&nbsp;&nbsp;Powered by <a href="https://www.froala.com/wysiwyg-editor?pb=1" title="Froala Editor">Froala Editor</a>

Thailand will leave a mark in you and entices you to be back 

 Did you just enjoy your stay in Thailand and are now leaving the country with a heavy heart? Here is a rundown of the 7 things that you, as a visitor to Thailand, will probably miss when you go home, along with the 8th, the reason why you are probably coming back.1. The foodWhatever you eat in Thailand, except desserts, of course, is spicy. Neophytes to Thai food may find it “too hot”, but once you’ve acquired tolerance for that chilli kick, you will have a higher appreciation and regard for the national cuisine.Thai food is absolutely delicious, which you will realise once you have trained your palate to cope with the spiciness. In the meantime, whether you’re dining in an upscale restaurant or at food stalls in the street, don’t hesitate to ask for your meal to be toned down to suit your taste.&nbsp;Visitors come back to Thailand for the authentic dishes they miss so much at a fraction of the price they pay at Thai restaurants in their home countries.2. The night marketsAs evening draws in and the temperature drops, Thais head to the night markets, usually just a group of makeshift stalls offering clothes, bags, shoes, accessories and plenty more besides. Wander around and you are sure to find some surprises including mysterious-looking amulets and interesting jewellery.3. TransportationModes of transportation in Thailand are varied and most cities offer a profusion of both modern and traditional transportation. Metropolitan Bangkok has one of the most modern elevated train and subway systems in the world. Railway travel is an experience in itself and air travel is top-notch.&nbsp;Meanwhile, along the streets, the mighty tuk-tuk&nbsp;still gets its share of attention. To avoid traffic, boat rides along the canals can be both stress-relieving and thrilling.&nbsp;4. The languageThe Thai language is very melodic, with varying intonations and nasal variations. But don’t be fooled! It may sound very monosyllabic but, in reality, a slight change in the way the tongue is placed gives an altogether different meaning to a word.To foreign ears, Thai sounds courteous, friendly, soothing, and most of all, accommodating.5. The templesThailand is synonymous with temples and vice versa. And who can resist the sight of these magnificent structures peering out from the rolling hills? They are stunning! Both imposing and majestic, temples bring serenity to the viewer. Going inside is a one-of-a-kind experience – a feeling beyond description!6. The beachesIn nearby Pattaya and the southern provinces, nature lovers enjoy sandy beaches and picture-perfect locations. For a more eclectic sand-and-sea enjoyment, Pattaya and its beaches are a must-visit. For a more esoteric and romantic excursion, Phuket, Krabi and Samui are the places to go.7. The festivals and celebrationsThailand has a celebration or reason for merry-making almost every month. The most popular is Songkran, the water festival that marks Thai New Year. It signals the start of summer and is celebrated by splashing people with water.&nbsp;&nbsp;Thailand has a celebration or reason for merry-making almost every month. The most popular is Songkran, the water festival that marks Thai New Year. It signals the start of summer and is celebrated by splashing people with water.&nbsp;These are the 7 things most visitors miss about Thailand. They are also the reasons why they come back. And the 8th reason?They come back to rekindle friendships built with the locals. It may be with the Thai noodle vendor, the girl selling handicrafts in the night market, the tuk-tuk driver who took them around, the neighbour who taught them the proper way to wai, the monk in the nearby temple, the girl selling Thai sweets at the beach, or the boy who doused them with water during Songkran. It’s easy to make friends in the Land of Smiles where the locals are amongst the friendliest folk on Earth.&nbsp;&nbsp;Powered by Froala Editor

You’ll miss many things about Thailand and you’ll be missed. 

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Telecoms World Asia is an important tech industry event that takes place every year in Bangkok. &nbsp;Described as a platform where the industry’s leaders can meet and exchange ideas, the event has been running for 21 years with the aim to help business leaders outline strategies both in marketing and technology across Asia and the world.&nbsp;Generally, the event is attended by thousands of people including many international visitors but given all the COVID restrictions on travel plus the risks to the health of large gatherings, Telecoms World Asia 2020 is now a solely virtual online event. The dates have been changed too.&nbsp;Telecom Worlds Asia 2020 was originally scheduled to be held in Bangkok on 21 -20 July at the Centara Grand &amp; Bangkok Convention Centre. This has now been changed to 27- 29 October as a Telecom Worlds Virtual, coming to you live; wherever you are.So, if you are considering attending Telecoms World Asia 2020 via your laptop or phone, what can you expect?&nbsp;This year's event has the biggest ever agenda and is focusing on five key themes;<ul class="decimal_type"><li>Networks Virtualization</li><li>5G</li><li>Wholesale</li><li>Intelligent Connectivity</li><li>Telco 4.0</li><li>Connected Asia&nbsp;</li></ul>There are set to be 60 inspiring talks, 120 key speakers and there are 6 channels where you can access the subjects that are relevant to you.&nbsp;Speakers include industry heavyweights such as; Yaw Yeo, general manager of the Alibaba group, Jose Luiz Nunez Diaz, global head of Blockchain, Su Ann Lim of Google and many other CEOs and innovators of telecom operations worldwide.&nbsp;Last year Telecoms World Asia 2019 took place in March and was focused on Digital Transformation in Emerging Markets.&nbsp;The aim was to develop strategies for the next decade and many of the core themes last year established the tone for this year’s conference. &nbsp;This was the first time that 5G and IoT was part of the agenda for example, and the event was attended by over 600 important representatives and CEOs from Asia Pacific’s telecoms industry.&nbsp;Moving Telecoms World Asia 2020 online does make sense. After all this industry is all about telecommunications so we can expect a high standard of excellence when it comes to downloading, networking and viewing online content live. In addition, it does bring this conference to a wider audience who would otherwise not be able to attend in person.&nbsp;To participate in Telecoms World Asia 2020 you can book tickets online. The Premium Telecoms World Asia Corporate Pass costs $750 and includes unlimited access to the 3-day conference including networking events and is available to an unlimited number of your attendees.&nbsp;You can also view the conference free of charge with the Telecoms World Asia Content Pass. &nbsp;The Telco Only pass enables you to view content about Telco and take place in networking online.&nbsp;&nbsp;Event Date: 27 – 29 October 2020more information visit <a href="https://www.terrapinn.com/virtual/telecoms-world-asia/index.stm">https://www.terrapinn.com/virtual/telecoms-world-asia/index.stm</a> Powered by <a href="https://www.froala.com/wysiwyg-editor?pb=1" title="Froala Editor">Froala Editor</a>

Telecoms World Asia 2020

Thailand LAB INTERNATIONAL 2020 is one of the leading laboratory exhibitions in Asia showcasing all laboratory equipment and instrument covering areas of Analytical &amp; Testing, Calibration &amp; Metrology, Clinical &amp; Diagnostic, Environmental &amp; Safety and Research &amp; Development. Variety of conferences &amp; seminars are conducted to update industry news and knowledge. Business networking activities, business matching, buyer privilege program will be held along with the exhibition. <a href="https://www.thailandlab.com/"><img src="https://thailandnow-dev.sgp1.digitaloceanspaces.com/production/yAcRrJbvP_Twitter-post-1024x512.png" style="width: 1000px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"></a>Click @ banner to learn more about Thailand Lab International 2020

Thailand LAB INTERNATIONAL 2020

<h2> </h2>&nbsp;Update yourself with latest trends&nbsp;in home decoration, Gardening and designs.&nbsp; Show Date: 30 oct. - 8 &nbsp;Nov. 2020Venue: &nbsp;IMPAC Challenger 1-3Time: 9.30 - 21.00&nbsp; <a href="https://amarinfair.com/brands/baanlaesuan/fairs/29"><img src="https://thailandnow-dev.sgp1.digitaloceanspaces.com/production/gpFsn2PDQ_AD_bannleasuan-fair-1.jpg" style="width: 1000px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"></a>Click @ banner to learn more about Baan Lae Suan Fair 2020

Baan Lae Suan Fair 2020

Loi Krathong: A festival of water and lightLoi Krathong is one of the most popular Thai festivals and is held annually on the night of the full moon of the twelfth month in the traditional Thai lunar calendar, usually in November. This year, the festival will be celebrated on 31 October, and all of Thailand will once again enjoy a special moment as the full moon casts its light on the rivers, lakes and canals all around the country; all of them illuminated by spectacular candle-lit krathongs.&nbsp;In an ancient ritual that pays respect to the water spirits, Thais release beautiful lotus-shaped floats decorated with candles, incense and flowers on the water to honour and ask forgiveness from the Goddess of Water or Phra Mae Kongka as she is known as in Thai. It is believed that as the krathongs drift away from the land, they carry with them the past year’s bad luck and misfortune wiping the slate clean for the coming year.&nbsp;<figure class="image image_resized" style="width:100%;"><img src="https://thailandnow-dev.sgp1.digitaloceanspaces.com/production/BuuYvY92n_shutterstock_1805874787%20low.jpg"></figure>Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Ayutthaya, Sukhothai and Tak are the most famous destinations for the Loi Krathong Festival and are among the many places that host a string of cultural activities including traditional Thai dance and historical shows.&nbsp;While krathongs can be bought from various stores, these days Thais often create their own colourful floats rejecting Styrofoam and other materials considered hazardous to the marine ecosystem and environment in favour of a range of natural materials.&nbsp;Last year, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration collected 502,024 krathongs after the celebration, 96.3% of which were fabricated from natural materials including banana leaves, bread, coconut shells and other biodegradables. The natural materials were later sent to the Nong Khaem Incineration Plant to produce organic fertiliser.In Bangkok, there are plenty of locations to celebrate the picturesque festival including parks, riverside embankments, temples, and tourist areas. If you’ve never experienced Loi Krathong, don’t miss this opportunity to revel in the truly magical sight of flickering candles sending a thousand pinpoints of light far into the night.<figure class="image image_resized" style="width:100%;"><img src="https://thailandnow-dev.sgp1.digitaloceanspaces.com/production/7nMZcMDWp_shutterstock_1702275589%20%281%29%20low%20low.jpg"></figure>

Loi Krathong Festival

Even if you have not heard of Yi Peng, or the Lantern Festival as it’s more commonly known, there’s a high possibility you have seen one of the stunning images of paper lanterns drifting into the night sky. It is one of the most picturesque events in Thailand, and the awe-inspiring celebrations are a must-see moment.<div class="fr-img-space-wrap"><img src="https://thailandnow-dev.sgp1.digitaloceanspaces.com/production/xRdVYMDRm_shutterstock_270299633%20low.jpg" style="width: 3000px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">- People release sky lanterns to warship Buddha's relics in Yi peng festival -The event is held primarily in the North of Thailand and is a celebration of the full moon in the 12th month of the Thai Lunar calendar. Typically held in November, The Lantern Festival has a number of origins with the ancient Lanna Kingdom and sees thousands of lanterns released into the night sky, whilst local homes and public places will also display bright and colourful lanterns or flags.&nbsp;</div>Although the release of the lanterns is visually stunning, it also has a purpose. The idea of releasing the lanterns is a symbol of letting go of all of the ills and misfortunes from the previous year, allowing you to start the New Lunar Year in the best possible way. Many Buddhists also believe that if you make a wish as you release the lantern, it will come true if you complete acts of kindness in the coming year.&nbsp;Events happen across the whole of Chiang Mai, and alongside the lantern releasing ceremony, there are dance shows, parades, live music, partying and even various stalls to help you learn arts and crafts. There’s also plenty of delicious food stalls to purchase food and drink from, whilst you can also expect regular firework celebrations every night around the festival!&nbsp;<img src="https://thailandnow-dev.sgp1.digitaloceanspaces.com/production/k-lBFkfAH_shutterstock_1029052906%20low.jpg" style="width: 3000px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Lantern release ceremonies occur all across Chiang Mai, but one of the biggest releases is held at Mae Jo University, which makes for a fantastic photo! Visitors can join in the celebrations and purchase their own lanterns, or Khom Loi as they’re better known, from many of the local shops and street vendors – although you should be quick as they can sell out very quickly.&nbsp;Although, Yi Peng is widely celebrated, there’s a limitation to where you can participate since there are risks associated to the ceremony like flight risk and fire hazard. The organisers have to get a permit in order to sell/release Khom Loi. &nbsp;

The brightest full moon day in Northern Thailand

The Lantern Festival (Yi Peng) 

If you’re fascinated by Thailand and want to learn more, you’ve come to the right place.Thailand NOW brings information on all aspects of Thai life, culture, current events and facts you can’t find anywhere else - real Thai facts written by real Thai people. All carefully laid out in a format that always puts you within a click of what you need to know. Thailand Now means Thailand right now! So, start your journey now!Thailand Now... Insightfully Thai &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Powered by <a href="https://www.froala.com/wysiwyg-editor?pb=1" title="Froala Editor">Froala Editor</a>

Thailand Now means Thailand right now! So, start your journey now!


If you’re fascinated by Thailand and want to learn more, you’ve come to the right place.Thailand NOW brings information on all aspects of Thai life, culture, current events and facts you can’t find anywhere else - real Thai facts written by real Thai people. All carefully laid out in a format that always puts you within a click of what you need to know. Thailand Now means Thailand right now! So, start your journey now!Thailand Now... Insightfully Thai &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Powered by Froala Editor

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Thailand Now : Discover Thailand In A Click

Thailand Now : All you need to know about Thailand on a new digital platform

EVENTS NOW

Telecoms World Asia 2020

27

29

Thailand LAB INTERNATIONAL 2020

28

30

Baan Lae Suan Fair 2020

30

08

Loi Krathong Festival

30

The Lantern Festival (Yi Peng)

31

01

Upcoming Events

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Thailand Lifestyle

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Thailand Facts

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Thailand Now : Discover Thailand In A Click

Thailand Now : All you need to know about Thailand on a new digital platform

EVENTS NOW

Telecoms World Asia 2020

27

29

Thailand LAB INTERNATIONAL 2020

28

30

Baan Lae Suan Fair 2020

30

08

THAILAND NOW

Living in Thailand

Thailand Lifestyle

Business & Investment in Thailand

Thailand Facts

SOCIAL NETWORK

Useful links

About us

Contact us

Useful links

About us

Contact us

Useful Links

About Us

Contact us

See All
CONTENT