The government will present a nomination file for Si Thep Historical Park to the World Heritage Centre within next month.
The site has been listed in the Tentative List of Unesco World Heritage Sites since April 2019.
Located in Phetchabun, the ancient town was one of the most significant Dvaravati culture sites (6th-11th centuries). Surrounded by a city wall and moat, the town consists of the inner town and the outer town, occupying a total area of 4.7km².
A team of archaeologists of the Fine Arts Department found more than 100 ancient Buddhist and Hindu monuments such as Khao Khlang Nai, Prang Si Thep and Prang Song Phi Nong as well as dozens of ancient reservoirs of different sizes.
An additional 50 monuments were found outside of the town such as Khao Khlang Nok, Prang Rue Si and Khao Khlang Sa Kaeo monument complex. A large number of artefacts were excavated from the area including human skeletons, pottery and other items dating back up to 2,000 years ago.
A research team from the Historic Site Restoration for the Foundation of Sustainable Conservation project conducted a structural analysis of the park. Funded by the Thailand Science Research and Innovation, the research team created 3D images of the ruins, analysed the strength of the structures and developed damage scenarios to check if the ruins can withstand possible threats including an earthquake, vibration generated by traffic or noisy ambience. The team also found possible artefacts buried under the Khao Khlang Nok ruin.
AIRLINES UPDATE
- Etihad Airways and Emirates are among pioneer airlines to implement the International Air Transport Association (IATA) Travel Pass app to mitigate the spread of the Covid-19.
The app under development will allow travellers to store and manage certifications for Covid-19 tests or vaccines. The information can be used by governments requiring testing or vaccination proof as a condition of international travel during and after the pandemic.
The app is scheduled to be available in iOS and Android stores by March.
Visit iata.org.
- Thai Vietjet has joined hands with MSIG Insurance to launch "Trip Easy Plus" travel insurance offering passengers medical treatment expenses for Covid-19 infections.
The insurance also covers accident and evacuation, loss or damage to baggage and flight delay. The Covid-19 clause will cover 30 days from the travel date with terms and conditions applied.
Visit SkyFUN.vietjetair.com
HOTEL DEALS & UPDATES
- Aloft Bangkok Sukhumvit 11 is offering connected rooms for family or friends who want space during their stay in an Alternative State Quarantine (ASQ) facility.
The connected rooms are available for up to 20 units featuring one king bedroom or suite connected to a two-queen-bed room with space up to 175m².
The 16-day package rates start from 49,000 baht net per person. It includes daily full board meals, complimentary Wi-Fi, poolside relaxation area, 20% off Food & Beverage and laundry service, limousine pickup from airport to hotel, two Covid-19 screening tests (RT-PCR), daily temperature check-up twice a day, complimentary telemedicine system service and 24-hour nurse available for health monitoring. The medical services are provided by Bangpakok 9 International Hospital.
The package is available until Mar 31 for stays until Jun 30.
Visit marriott.com.
- V Villas Phuket – MGallery is scheduled to open in March.
The resort will feature 24 pool villas with options of one to three bedrooms and space usage from 170m²-830m², five dining outlets, a swimming pool and spa. The property is a short walk to Ao Yon Beach and a 50-minute drive from Phuket International Airport.
Visit all.accor.com.
- Four Points by Sheraton Phuket Patong Beach Resort has launched the "Taste of Phuket" promotion.
Room rates start from 2,021++ baht a night including daily breakfast and a daily two-course couple's dinner at Chao Leh Kitchen. Bookings and stays must be completed by Mar 31.
The hotel also has a "Daycation" package priced at 400 baht. The offer allows one adult and one child unlimited access to the resort's Beach Club pool, fitness centre, kids' club and 400 baht credit for food and beverages. A day-use room can be booked for an additional 599 baht net per day (8am-6pm).
Visit fourpointsphuketpatong.com or call 076-645-999.
Email karnjanak@bangkokpost.co.th if you have any comments to share.
