Travellers from Russia, India and Taiwan can benefit from temporary visa exemptions just in time to welcome Thailand's peak season. Travellers with Russian passports will be allowed to stay in Thailand for 90 days until April 30, 2024.
Similarly, from this Friday until May 10, 2024, Indian and Taiwanese tourists will be able to take advantage of a 30-day stay in Thailand for tourism-related purposes. This move comes following the temporary tourist visa exemption for visitors from China and Kazakhstan, in place from Sept 25 to Feb 29, 2024, and is the most recent stimulus visa programme for travellers.
Phimai Festival and Boat Race.
Annual Phimai Festival runs until Sunday
Until Sunday, the annual Phimai Festival is returning to the ancient town of Nakhon Ratchasima to shed light on Thai cultural heritage and history. With an incredible light and sound show this year, visitors can travel back in time 1,000 years ago when King Jayavarman VII constructed several Khmer-style sanctuaries, including Prasat Phimai in an effort to expand his dominance throughout Siam.
Chomsuda Sadet Road has transformed into a retro market where patrons may peruse a wide range of handicrafts, souvenirs and local delicacies while dressing in traditional Thai clothing. The site of Meru Brahmathat serves as an entertainment venue where residents from the Phimai Dam Village conduct traditional rituals to highlight their way of life.
The Fine Arts Department is hosting an interesting exhibition and seminar on ancient stone lintels that were recently discovered in Nakhon Ratchasima. In addition, the yearly Phimai Boat Race will be on display, along with a cooking competition whereby local chefs will showcase their skills to prepare phad mee Korat and som tam.
Call the TAT Nakhon Ratchasima Office on 044-213-030 or 044-213-666.
Le Meridien Phuket Mai Khao Beach Resort.
Le Meridien Phuket unveils Dine+Unwind package
With the Dine+Unwind package, visitors who book a stay at Le Meridien Phuket Mai Khao Beach Resort between now and Oct 18 next year can take in the Andaman Sea's splendour and discover Phuket's culinary scene.
From 6,111 baht, guests can enjoy spacious accommodation for two nights, an international breakfast buffet, a set dinner (or lunch) for two that includes soft drinks, complimentary resort activities, a kid-friendly Le Meridien Family Programme, complimentary tickets to the Peranakan Museum's Unlock Art Programme, complimentary welcome drinks for two, a 10% discount on all food and beverages, and Marriott BonVoy Points or Miles.
Visit marriott.com.
Hong Kong Night Treats.
Hong Kong offers travellers dining voucher
Until March 31, the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) is providing HK$100 (461 baht) "Hong Kong Night Treats" coupons to travellers who stay in Hong Kong for 90 days or less. Visitors can experience Hong Kong's vibrant nightlife from now until the New Year by participating in a variety of well-known festivals and recreational events that take place all across the island.
With the launch of the "Taste Around Town" campaign this month, HKTB is collaborating with over 300 pubs and restaurants to offer visitors an enjoyable gastronomic experience after dark. The renowned Chinese Master Chef's Curation is making a comeback with a contemporary presentation and a twist on traditional Hong Kong cuisine.
In conjunction with the return of Hong Kong WinterFest, a massive Christmas tree will light up Victoria Harbour, and until January, three different night city tour choices are available on an open-top bus. Tickets are sold at the bus station.
Visit discoverhongkong.com.
