To mark Khao Phansa Day, the beginning of Buddhist Lent, the northeastern town of Ubon Ratchathani invites Buddhist pilgrims and tourists to take part in its annual Candle Festival featuring unique religious rituals and cultural activities throughout July.
From July 1-18, visitors are welcome to observe and learn how to carve and decorate wax candles using traditional techniques as skilful artisans gather in their communities. There will be artworks depicting Lord Buddha's life, mythical Himmapan creatures and the Ramakien epic.
During the day, visitors can arrange their own pilgrimage to 12 temples around town, which represent the 12 signs of the zodiacs. Thung Si Muang Park will be the setting for a candle ceremony and competition on July 19.
From July 20-21, a candle procession is scheduled to begin at Wat Si Ubon Rattanaram and end at Thung Si Muang Park. There will also be a light and sound show, a Yak Khu procession from Amnat Charoen, a Chak Phra boat parade from Surat Thani, and many cultural performances.
From July 22-23, a collection of winning wax candles will be on display at city hall and around Thung Si Muang Park. Then, participating temples will exhibit wax candles from July 24 until Aug 24.
Visit facebook.com/tatubon or call 045-344-583-4.
The Standard, Hua Hin.
Give your pet luxe love at The Standard, Hua Hin
This weekend, vacationers travelling with their pets can take advantage of the "Jet Set With Your Pet" package when booking a luxurious villa or standard room at The Standard, Hua Hin.
The package includes breakfast for two persons, while your pets will enjoy a welcome ice cream and in-room amenities like a cosy pet bed, blanket and water bowl. You may even bring them while dining at Lido Terrace or sipping coffee at The Juice Café where they will be greeted with special cookies and belly rubs. The hotel welcomes vaccinated cats and dogs under 20kg.
Visit standardhotels.com or call 032-535-999.
Star Alliance.
Star Alliance marks 10 years at Heathrow
Star Alliance recently celebrated its 10th anniversary at Heathrow Terminal 2, which has served as the base for 23 Star Alliance member airlines facilitating smooth transfers and operations for over 15 million passengers a year.
With member airlines, Star Alliance provides facilities for a seamless airport experience including Gold Track Security that offers faster security access via dedicated lanes for Star Alliance Gold status customers, regardless of the cabin they travel in.
Baggage Tracking allows passengers to know where their bags are as they move along in their journey. Each day at London Heathrow, over 85,000 bags on Star Alliance member airline flights are scanned for customers' peace of mind.
Star Connection Centre is designed to expedite passengers with tight connections by providing fast-track access through the airport. The Heathrow Star Connection Centre takes pride in expediting over 1,000 passengers and 750 bags monthly, saving costs for member airlines and enhancing travellers' experience.
Complimentary Heathrow Express Upgrade provides Star Alliance Gold status and free upgrades to business travellers on Heathrow Express between the airport and Paddington station. This offer extends to one companion travelling with a Gold status customer.
At Terminal 2, 23 Star Alliance airlines -- Aegean Airlines, Air Canada, Air China, Air India, ANA, Asiana Airlines, Austrian, Avianca, Brussels Airlines, Croatia Airlines, EgyptAir, Ethiopian Airlines, EVA Air, LOT Polish Airlines, Lufthansa, Scandinavian Airlines, Shenzhen Airlines, Singapore Airlines, SWISS, TAP Air Portugal, Thai Airways, Turkish Airlines and United -- offer 124 flights a day to 44 destinations in 23 countries.
