BOOK YOUR TICKET TO OUTER SPACE

Richard Branson has unveiled a commercial spaceliner offering tourists a cheaper chance to experience the thrill of weightlessness and view the splendor of the Earth from space.

The British billionaire hopes to offer tickets aboard his spacecraft at a cost of 200,000 dollars each, giving adventurous, well-heeled travellers a chance to experience space for a fraction of the cost of a seat on a NASA shuttle or Russian spaceship.

Announcing the roll-out of the Virgin Galactic spaceliner in California's Mojave desert, Branson said he planned to be on the craft's first passenger flight some 18 months from now, accompanied by his family and the American designer of the space ship, Burt Rutan.

The craft is composed of two parts — the SpaceShipTwo and the WhiteKnightTwo, the prototype of which has been dubbed Virgin MotherShip Eve in a tribute to Branson's mother.
The futuristic-looking craft emblazoned with the image of a young woman that represents Branson's mother Eve diving through space, resembles two jet aircraft joined together at their wing tips.

The White Knight will transport the two-pilot, six-passenger SpaceShipTwo high above the Earth where the space pod will break away and propel beyond the atmosphere.
"It is attached to the mothership in the middle and when the mothership gets up to 60 000 feet, the spaceship will drop away," Branson said of SpaceShipTwo. "They will ignite the rocket and it will go from zero to 2500 miles per hour in 10 seconds, so a real rush," he told AFP.

Passengers aboard the SpaceShipTwo will be able to remain strapped in and view the Earth from portholes next to their seats, or unbuckle and experience weightlessness, once the craft passes beyond the atmosphere.

"This is a very big space ship so you have got a lot of room to float around, lots of windows to look out," Branson said. "There will be two astronauts at the front, but the six passengers will be astronauts by the time they are finished," he added.

In an interview with CNN before the unveiling, Branson said the ship's unusual design will allow it to return to Earth like "a giant shuttlecock." "And so it literally feathers its way back into the Earth's atmosphere so it doesn't have the enormous heat buildup that some of the NASA spaceships have had in the past."

Branson said he had long dreamed of being able to offer trips into space. "I think the idea came when I was sitting watching the moon landing many years ago," he told AFP. "I know there are literally thousands of people who would love to go to space, to be able to look out the window, to marvel at the beautiful Earth, and through Virgin Galactic we will make it possible."

Some 300 passengers have reportedly paid in advance for tickets on the spaceliner.

SOUTH AFRICA TOPS FOR ETHICAL TRAVEL

While many first-world countries are clamping down on tourists accessing world-class heritage sites, South Africa’s attempts to empower local communities through establishing eco-friendly destinations off the beaten track has helped place it squarely on a 2010 list of the developing world’s top 10 tourist destinations.

Compiled by Ethical Traveler, a non-profit California-based project of Earth Island Institute, which aims to promote responsible travel, the 2010 list selects countries by the work they are doing to upgrade the environment, social welfare and human rights.

With three African countries (Ghana, Namibia and South Africa) and an island republic (Seychelles) on the list, Africa’s attempts at responsible tourism received special mention by the research team, headed up by Christy Hoover. Seychelles, in particular, was noted as a world leader in sustainable tourism.

While Europe, which is largely developed, came in with two candidates, Lithuania and Poland, which rated highest overall, South America had four tourism-conscious representatives, Argentina, Belize, Chile and Suriname. Asia, notably, produced absolutely none. With no improvement from last year, irresponsible development, human rights abuses and weak environmental policies were cited as the reasons.

Though crime was highlighted as a deterrent, South Africa received special mention for supporting eco-friendly, community-based tourism ventures, as well as for sustainable coastal development and environmental management. It also came in a strong second after Lithuania for press freedom.

Researchers also singled out Ghana, for its commitment to democracy and growing culture of environmental consciousness, and Suriname, for its unspoilt rainforest biodiversity and ecotourism and environmental preservation.

DISASTER LOOMS IN ANTARCTICA

New rules are needed for tourist ships visiting Antarctica to prevent a disaster in the world's most isolated region, New Zealand Foreign Affairs Minister Murray McCully said this week.

"I am greatly concerned that unless we take action, there will be a serious maritime casualty involving a tourist vessel in Antarctica, and we will be faced with a humanitarian and environmental disaster," McCully said.

A three-day meeting in Wellington of about 80 experts from the 47 Antarctic Treaty countries, aimed at drawing up new regulations for tourist ships visiting Antarctica.

McCully told the meeting that four tourist ships had run aground in the past three years, and 154 people had to be rescued by a nearby vessel after the Canadian-owned Explorer sank after hitting an iceberg in 2007.

"We were lucky. No one was lost in that incident, but the fact that there have not been more serious consequences owes more to good luck than good management," he said in a speech. The number of annual visitors in tourist ships has quadrupled to around 46,000 over the last 15 years, and there are concerns some of the ships are not suitable for the extreme conditions.

The meeting is expected to come up with recommendations on the types of ships that can be used in Antarctic waters, and whether they should be required to sail with another ship nearby for safety's sake.

Other recommendations will be aimed at ensuring the Antarctic environment remains pristine, including whether to ban the use of heavy fuel oil, which if leaked could have a devastating impact on wildlife.

The experts' recommendations will go to a meeting of Antarctic Treaty members in Uruguay in May next year.

BUBBLE MILK TEA - TAIWAN

If you visit Taiwan or Hong Kong you can't help but notice the unique bubble teashops on every corner. Bubble Tea to Taiwan is what coffee or soda is to the U.S. One would think Bubble Tea is the national drink by its popularity.

Bubble Tea originated in Taiwan in the early 1980's at a small tea stand.
Elementary school children would look forward to buying a cup of refreshing tea after a long, hard day of work and play. Tea stands were set up in front of the schools and would compete for business with the best selling tea. One concession owner became popular with her tea when she started adding different fruit flavoring to her tea. Because of the sweet and cool taste, children loved the taste. Soon, other concessions heard about the "unique" and popular tea, so they started to add flavoring to their teas. When adding flavor, the tea and flavoring needed to be shaken well for a good all around taste. This formed bubbles in the drink, which came to be known as "Bubble Tea."

In 1983 Liu Han-Chieh introduced Taiwan to tapioca pearls. The new fad was to add tapioca pearls into a favorite drink. Most of the time tapioca pearls were served in cold infused tea. After the tea and flavor were shaken well, it topped tapioca pearls that were sitting on the bottom of a clear cup. The tapioca pearls also looked like bubbles, thus also became to known as "Bubble Tea." Bubbles floated on the top your drink and bottom of your drink.

Bubble drinks are usually cool, refreshing, and a sweet drink with tapioca pearls sitting on the bottom of a clear cup. Sometimes the drink is made with fresh fruits, milk, and crushed ice to create a healthy milk shake. You can also find drinks that are made of powdered flavoring, creamer, water, and crushed ice. And if you like it like the Asians do, the cool drink usually includes a healthy tea, infused by a flavoring.

Tapioca pearls are black, but can sometimes be found to be white or transparent. Depending on the ingredients of the pearl, the color varies. The black pearl includes sweet potato, cassava root and brown sugar, which adds the black colour.

A clear cup with black balls on the bottom can easily identify bubble Tea drinks. Another obvious trait is a huge fat straw. The fat straw is needed so that the tapioca pearls can be sucked up with the drink and eaten. Bubble Tea's appearance definitely makes it unique.

SPECIAL DRY DAY - ISLAMIC NEW YEAR- UAE

Please be informed that, in line with the Dubai Government rules, the 'Dry day' on the occasion of Islamic New year , will be from 17th to 18th Dec 09 wherein serving of alcohol and live entertainment are prohibited in hotels, Restaurants, Leisure clubs, lounges and any public area. The prohibition also applies during excursions.

Please be informed that the restrictions will apply from 1700 hrs (17th Dec 09) until 1830 hrs (18th Dec 09).

NEW YEARS DAY IN THAILAND

In 1940, Thailand moved its New Year's Day from April 13th to January 1st. The old New Year is still a holiday called Songkran. Years are counted as the Buddhist era (B.E.) which started 543 years earlier than the Christian, era, therefore 2002 AD is the year 2545 BE

In Thailand there are three New Year's days. The Western, on Jan 1st, the Chinese New Year on the first day of the First Lunar month, usually in February and the Thai New Year marked by the Songkhran festival in April. Thais usually exchange gifts on January 1st.

Songkran is a Thai traditional New Year which starts on April 13 every year and lasts for 3 days. Songkran festival on April 13 is Maha Songkran Day or the day to mark the end of the old year, April 14 is Wan Nao which is the day after and April 15 is Wan Thaloeng Sok which the New Year begins. At this time, people from the rural areas who are working in the city usually return home to celebrate the festival. Thus, when the time come, Bangkok temporarily turns into a deserted city.

Songkran celebrations are incomplete unless water is thrown on each other. People roam the streets with buckets of water and children play with water guns to drench people. Water is thrown to get rid off all the bad deeds and give a fresh welcome to the New Year.

NEW YEARS FIREWORKS - SINGAPORE

31 December 2009 - Catch the brilliant fireworks display as you count down to the new year at the signature annual Marina Bay SINGAPORE Countdown 09/10.

More than just a festive celebration, this year-end tradition for Singapore will bring together the collective wishes and aspirations of thousands of people, and unite all in counting down the final seconds of the year to celebrate the beginning of a new year full of hopes, challenges, changes and dreams.

Broadcast LIVE on ChannelNews Asia, the Countdown will also capture the hearts of fellow Singaporeans and friends residing overseas. Fast becoming the city's favourite festival stage, Marina Bay provides a perfect setting against the signature city skyline to stage and enjoy large-scale cultural and community events, water-based sports and celebrations.

DECEMBER HAPPENINGS AT SINGAPORE ZOO

SINGAPORE ZOO


5-27 December 2009 - Have fun every Saturday and Sunday this December with Singapore Zoo star elephants.
Join the elephant parade round the park donned in elegant Maharajah Suits. Catch also the paint performance, bath, feeding, and pedicure sessions. It's so much more when you see them for yourself. Activities are from 5 till 27 December.
Join us for these activities and highlights:• The Elephant Parade (Elephants donned in maharajah suits parade in the park)• The Elephant Paints (Watch the elephants paint and buy the painting for charity. Mechanics to be confirmed) • Cultural Performances to celebrate origin of Asian Elephants (South East Asia Influence) • Get personal with our elephants (Bath, Pedicure, Feeding Sessions)• The Elephant Story (Story Telling Sessions)• The Elephant Vs Man Challenge (Log Challenge, Coconut Breaking, Log Balance)• Guess the Elephant's Weight Contest

During the elephant show, these giant beasts might give the front row spectators a 'welcome shower'. They have the 'stuff' hidden in their trunks. If you don't want to get wet, sit 2 or 3 rows back. Otherwise, this could be a great way to surprise your little ones or your travel companions. Get them to sit in the front row and get your camera ready! But remember to take a change of clothes for them.

KLM’S FIRST BIOFUEL-POWERED FLIGHT A SUCCESS

KLM Royal Dutch Airlines last week operated its first ever passenger flight powered by biokerosene, a non-polluting, sustainable alternative to jet fuel.

The test flight was the result of years of research into the development of biokerosene for aircraft use, which KLM has been pursuing in partnership with private and government stakeholders.

Most recently, the airline founded SkyEnergy, a sustainable aviation fuel research programme in partnership with North Sea Petroleum and Spring Associates, with the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) acting in an advisory capacity.

“Clean, silent and sustainable air transport worldwide…is technically feasible. We have demonstrated that it is possible. Government, industry and society at large must now join forces to ensure that we quickly gain access to a continuous supply of biofuel,” said KLM President and Chief Executive Peter Hartman.

TOURIST STREAM BACK INTO ZIMBABWE

The number of tourists to Zimbabwe this year has more than tripled, according to the President of the Zimbabwe Council of Tourism (ZCT).

While in South Africa recently, ZCT head Emmanuel Fundira reported that 362,000 tourists visited the country up to August this year, compared to 100,000 during the same period in 2008.

A decade ago, Zimbabwe earned US$250-million in revenue from tourism, Mr. Fundira said. This dropped to US$40-million in 2005 but has risen to US$100-million this year.

He attributed the tourism spike to the unity government formed in January between President Robert Mugabe and opposition leader Prime Minister Morgan Tsvangirai. The unity government had brought a measure of political and economic stability, he said, which, together with the lifting of travel bans by several source markets, had driven the tourism industry’s recovery.
However, full recovery is dependent on the success of the new government, which has been turbulent over recent weeks and many fear it is on the brink of collapse.

"The economy has got so much potential but political stability is extremely key," Mr. Fundira said, adding that Zimbabwe hopes to maximise the opportunities arising from South Africa’s hosting of next year’s FIFA World Cup.

GO CAPE TOWN CARD

Cape Town’s Table Mountain Cableway, City Sightseeing Open-Top Tour and Two Oceans Aquarium have joined forces to launch the Go Cape Town Card, an all-inclusive ticket for the three popular tourism attractions.

The card will be available from December 1 onwards at a cost of R360 per card for adults and R180 per card for children under 18 years. The card entitles users to a return trip on the Table Mountain Cableway, a visit to the Two Oceans Aquarium and a ride on an open-top City Sightseeing Bus.

“The beauty of the card is that visitors no longer have to stand in queues at any of the attractions; as well as the three-month validity, allowing for more flexibility in planning your itinerary,” said Jillian Grindley-Ferris, Two Oceans Aquarium Brand and Business Manager.

The Go Cape Town card can be bought at any of the three venues, and at Cape Town Tourism’s offices.

AYANA RESORT AND SPA - BALI - WINS AWARDS

AYANA Bali wins Asia's Leading Luxury Resort 2009

Named after a ‘place of refuge’ in Sanskrit, AYANA Resort and Spa Bali is perched on limestone cliffs above the Indian Ocean on Bali’s south-western peninsula. The 77-hectare property enjoys majestic views across its 1.3 kilometer coastline, yet is just 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) from Bali’s airport. Seventy-eight freestanding private villas and a 290-room hotel harmoniously blend traditional Balinese architecture and décor with the latest modern luxury. The resort features 13 dining venues including the stunning new Rock Bar built on natural rock 14 meters above the ocean at the base of towering cliffs; the only Thermes Marins Spa in south-east Asia; the Spa on the Rocks treatment villas anchored by rocks amidst the ocean; one of the world’s largest Aquatonic Seawater Therapy Pools; and cliff-top wedding chapels.



BEST HOTEL IN BALI - DESTINASIAN 2009 READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS
#3 BEST SPA HOTELS & RESORTS IN ASIA - 2009 SMARTTRAVELASIA AWARDS
ONLY HOTEL IN BALI - AND INDONESIA - VOTED AMONGST ASIA’S TOP 15
2009 TRAVEL + LEISURE READERS’ AWARDS

SAVUTE CAMP UPDATE - BOTSWANA

November in northern Botswana can be an exasperating but also an extremely exhilarating month... The life-giving rains are just around the corner, and they must come soon: the golden grass wilts in the sun and the calcrete pans start to look like the surface of the moon. As the month progresses there is a tangible tension in the air, like a single note played on a vibrating string; the sense of anticipation is palpable.

The African bush ecosystem is an intricate mechanism, lubricated by water. For all the beautifully engineered components to keep clicking together, we need the rains now. Sleek impala bellies are swelling with new life and soon thousands of hungry mouths will need to be filled with green shoots. As each waterhole surrenders to evaporation, animals must walk farther to find water...

Of course, many things have changed this year, with the waters of the Savute Channel creating a vital green path in the otherwise parched landscape. As the dry season reaches its peak, this reincarnated African river becomes a magnet for game.

As the heat spikes early each afternoon, herds of elephants trek down to the Channel and as we enjoy tea in the camp we watch as they delight in the river, demonstrating a real enjoyment of life.

Each afternoon the clouds gather, bruised thunderheads climbing thousands of feet into the sky above the camp and then fading away: seeming to promise relief but giving none. It's a meteorological tease right now. On evenings when the stars are blotted out by inky clouds, and a stiff breeze comes in off the Channel, it is easy to think that surely this is it. Sheet lightning flickers inconstantly, throwing the riverine trees into brief silhouette. Surely this is it ... But no, the next morning the sun's rays burn holes in the clouds, revealing the relentless blue beyond.

Our find of the month was undoubtedly the new lion cubs born to a female in the DumaTau Pride. We already knew one female had given birth several months ago, but now one of her sisters was seen nursing three little blue-eyed scraps of fur - which instantly and effortlessly stole our hearts.
If you like your wildlife cute, the DumaTau Pride is a must-see, with a total of six cubs under four months old. The order of the day is curiosity and play, but these are games with a deadly purpose as these future killers work in concert with each other to subdue such dangerous prey as grasshoppers or the black tuft of fur at the tip of a lioness' tail.

Preparations for summer continue apace everywhere we look. Lacking the vertical river banks they would normally use, a colony of Southern Carmine Bee-eaters at the Linyanti River (to the north) have resorted to digging burrows into the sandy ground. This spot is a constant hive of activity with bee-eaters circling and wheeling, or striking comical poses with their heads down and little feet whirring away, kicking more sand out behind them as they lengthen their tunnels.
They are by no means the only summer migrants to have returned. Swallow-tailed Bee-eaters are here too, and the skies are full of the distinctive shapes of Yellow-billed Kites as they carve the air, either trying to avoid the pesky attentions of mobbing Fork-tailed Drongos, or swooping down to seize the intestines of a spring hare killed by a pair of black-backed jackals.
In a lofty leadwood tree to the east of camp, a pair of Giant Eagle-Owls have built their untidy nest, and from this vantage point they regard the diurnal world through heavily-lidded eyes, waiting for the cloak of darkness, waiting for their eggs to hatch.

FISH REFLEXOLOGY - SINGAPORE

Underwater World Singapore also offers a unique activity that enable visitors to unwind and have fun at the same time. At Fish Reflexology, participants get to enjoy a unique pedicure session done by spa fish, followed by a good massage by a qualified foot reflexologist.

Experience a unique and revitalizing therapy, complete with a foot massage at Fish Reflexology, Underwater World, Singapore.

With soft lighting, calming sounds of a river stream and feet relaxed in a warm pool, witness a school of Turkish spa fish swim up and gently nibble on your feet. These adorable little fish consume only the dead skin areas, revealing your smoother and healthier skin - the perfect way to exfoliate and pamper your feet.
Following the "nibbling massage", our qualified foot reflexologists will rub and knead your feet to good shape.

THE COMO SHAMBHALA UMA UBUD RESORT - BALI

2009 Awards

Spa Finders' Readers Choice Awards
Best Boutique Spa
Favourite Spa in Indonesia
Best for Interior Design

Conde Nast Traveller Readers' Spa Awards
The World's Top 25

Conde Nast Traveller Readers' Spa Awards
Top 5 Spa Retreats Global

COMO Shambhala Estate in Bali is a residential health retreat that promises total commitment to your improved wellbeing. We present you with new challenges, providing perpetual inspiration in your lifelong journey towards better health.
We have a holistic approach. Nothing we offer at the Estate is devoted entirely to the exterior physique without taking a closer look at the hidden elements. This 360-degree experience is key to our proactive philosophy.

Uma Ubud features 24 guest rooms, some opening onto private garden terraces and others onto a private courtyard. Three Uma Pool Suites have infinity-edge pools and uninterrupted views across the valley down to the river. The Shambhala Suite has possibly the best pool as well as a private area for Shambhala signature spa services.

Each private villa in Uma Ubud is designed to feel like a quiet retreat in the woods. The bathrooms and living spaces are separated by an outdoor area and rooms open onto views of the forest. The bedrooms open onto private garden terraces, courtyards or plunge pools

The buzzing heart of the Estate is Glow, a contemporary, open-sided, all-day dining restaurant featuring our healthful COMO Shambhala cuisine. There's an open kitchen, so you can watch your fresh food as it's prepared. Dishes might include lime leaf, chilli and coconut curry of fern tips and cherry tomatoes and seared mahi-mahi with, baby zucchini, chickpea and mint salad with preserved lemon and sumac dressing.

Our therapies at the Estate are delivered by expert staff who are trained in specific modalities, from Ayurveda to hydrotheraphy. Many of our treatments are Asian-inspired, paired with cutting-edge advances in holistic healthcare.

CHIANG MAI FLOWER FESTIVAL - FEBRUARY 2010

Chiang Mai Flower Festival 2010
Date : 5 - 7 February 2010
Venue : Nong Buak Hat Park, Chiang Mai

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

A highlight of the festival is the grand parade that attracts sponsoring companies and organisations that beautify floats with elaborate flower decorations, presenting an eco-tourism message or just simply stealing the hearts of spectators with their vivid colours and beauty.
The parade leads up to the annual beauty competition to crown the city’s flower queen, who represents the flower growers and exporters as an ambassador of good will.

Entertainment, an opportunity to dine on tasty northern snacks and view cultural performances are clearly features that draw both visitors and locals to this annual event.

Home and garden lovers discover Chiang Mai is a February showcase for exotic orchids, flowering plants and blooms that thrive in the northern valley’s temperate cool season. Particularly during the cool season months, mid-November through to February, this northern provinces justifies its title “Rose of the North.” But for flower lovers, who flock to this annual festival, 6 to 8 February in the town’s Buak Hat Park, there is far more to the town’s garden reputation than the impressive display of elegant roses.

Since 1977 when the annual festival was inaugurated, it has earned a reputation on par with similar events such as Japan Sakura Flower Festival and the Netherlands’ flower parades. This was further enhanced by the successful flower expo in 2006.Due variations of climate and its mountain landscapes, the Chiang Mai Flower Festival presents a diversity of blooms and flowers. Many of them, originally imported from temperate climes such as carnations, chrysanthemum, tulips, are displayed side-by-side with tropical flowers including exotic orchids.

2010 FIFA WORLD CUP SOUTH AFRICA

The Grammy award-winning Soweto Gospel Choir, Beninoise singer-songwriter Angélique Kidjo and one of South Africa's greatest music exports Johnny Clegg will provide a star-studded line-up for the Final Draw for the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™ in Cape Town on 4 December (19.00 local time/18.00 CET).

The 90-minute live show at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) promises a whole host of stunning African-inspired visual and acoustic treats with international appeal. These will include guest appearances by some of the biggest names in sport as they descend on South Africa for the eagerly anticipated Final Draw to decide whom and where the 32 qualified teams will be playing.

With the Final Draw being broadcast to no fewer than 200 countries around the world, this will mark another unprecedented milestone in the history of the FIFA World Cup. The Final Draw in Germany, December 2005 attracted a cumulative television audience of 134.5 million and was shown live in 137 countries.

"We are very proud to be a part of the Final Draw for the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa. It is an incredible opportunity," said Beverly Bryer, founder and manager of the choir. The choir will perform alongside Johnny Clegg, a well-known campaigner against the injustice of apartheid in South Africa who has been instrumental in putting the new South Africa on the map.

"This Final Draw has all the ingredients to capture the imagination of the watching world. We look forward to finally welcoming the 32 qualifying countries to Africa to share in the rhythm and energy of our continent, and are certain that this event will provide the perfect prelude to Africa's first FIFA World Cup," said Danny Jordaan, CEO of the FIFA World Cup Organising Committee.

DUBAI SHOPPING FESTIVAL - JAN-FEB 2010

Dubai is world-famous for its annual festivals, and this city of superlatives knows how to stage a world-class event. One of the most noteworthy yearly events is the Shopping Festival in January, when high-profile stores offer lower prices on popular items. Shopping bargains are offered again during the ten-week Summer Surprises Festival.

Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) - late January to late February, the city's reputation as a shopping Mecca is especially clear during this month-long festival. Stores across the city feature great bargains, and street entertainment (including fireworks) is staged on a regular basis.

USAIN BOLT VISITS KENYA

Usain Bolt, the worlds’ fastest man, met the world’s fastest animal on four legs, the cheetah, at the Nairobi National Park in Kenya.

The Jamaican sprinter was on a four day safari in Kenya helping to launch a conservation campaign by the Zeitz Foundation.The double world and Olympic champion adopted a cheetah cub rightly naming it ‘Lightning Bolt’.Usain Bolt had initially toured the Nairobi Animal Orphange where he came face to face with full grown cheetahs.

Colin Jackson, a former 110m hurdle world record holder adopted an Eland at the same function hosted by the Kenya Wildlife Service.

When asked if he was afraid of cheetahs, Bolt said: "Yes, I was, but not anymore."

TRANG UNDERWATER WEDDING CEREMONY

Trang Underwater Wedding Ceremony
Date : 13-15 February 2010
Venue : Ko Kradan, Sikao District, Trang, Thailand







Now in its 14th year, Trang’s underwater wedding ceremony, 13 to 14 February, must be one of the most unusual ways to tie the knot.This unique event is right at the top in the creative wedding category and has defied critics over the years to emerge as a firm favourite for those who want to make their Valentine day wedding extraordinary.In 2000, it was declared the largest underwater wedding ceremony by the Guinness Book of Records, while more recently it opened the ceremony to physically challenged couples.

Its rise in popularity was not without obstacles, starting with the obvious objection that not everyone has the ability, or the desire, to stand on a sandy sea bed and utter their vows.

Created by Thai Airways International to draw attention to its daily flight to Trang town, the event has certainly put this southernmost stretch of Andaman Sea coastline on the map. This attractive region lies 870 km from Bangkok and slightly more than 300 km south of Phuket. The town is served by a twice daily rail service direct from Bangkok. The trip takes 15 hours. A daily service on Nok Air, a sister company partly owned by THAI, completes the flight in one hour.
Trang is blessed with an amazing variety of unspoilt beaches and islands perfect for getaway honeymoons and even more perfect if they happen to love diving.

The ceremony is quite straightforward once the couple understand the basic scuba diving techniques and are certified by Naui or Padi, two internationally recognised dive training organisations.In the presence of a witness, couples descend in clear blue waters to the sandy seabed to make legally binding vows using divers’ sign language. To ensure relatives and friends can share in the fun the wedding ceremonies are part of celebrations that cover three days on dry land.

Town residents come out in droves to make it a memorable and fun event. Hosted by the Trang Chamber of Commerce, in association with the municipality, provincial authorities and THAI the national airline, wedding fever is fired up with a lavish parade, led by over 100 couples, through the town’s centre to a street party venue. The town’s best cooks are there presenting an amazing display of Thai food dishes and fresh seafood barbecued made all the more delectable by the variety of spicy southern sauces. Dressed in white wedding gowns, or national dress, brides are presented to their grooms at the wedding venue on Pak Meng beach, 15 km from the Trang town.

Here the traditional Thai ceremony gets underway, 14 February, in the presence of friends and relatives before a fleet of boats transfer the couples to an idyllic Kradan Island, where they dive to the seabed for the official registration of their vows.Looking back on this carefully managed scene, the happy couple will declare “it was unforgettable,” a conclusion helped along by a beautiful resort that incredibly still warrants the title “unseen Thailand” for most of the year.

LAGUA PHUKET TRIATHLON - DECEMBER 2009

Date : Sunday, 6 December 2009
Venue : The upscale Laguna Phuket Resort occupies 600 acres of tropical beachfront parkland on the northwest coast of Phuket island in Southern Thailand.

The competition among the "iron men" from Thailand and international countries includes swimming, cycling and marathon racing. Also, there are activities to encourage the participants to experience the adventure routes along Phuket’s tourist attractions.

Starting on the beach between the Dusit Laguna Resort and Laguna Beach Resort near the LBR Marine Centre, competitors swim 1,180 metres in the sea before sprinting 100 metres across the beach to swim the last 620 metres in a lagoon finishing at the Laguna Beach Resort Y-junction. Wetsuits are not allowed.

The bike course takes competitors out of Laguna Phuket onto narrow, winding roads. The course will be the same as in 2007, with some steep hilly sections on the road to Naithon Beach north of Laguna Phuket. Drafting is illegal. Suggested equipment includes a minimum of two water bottle cages. Athletes should consider a 24-28 tooth rear cassettes to ease the difficulty of hill climbs. Some of the road surfaces may be rough and athletes should use durable tires. The bike course will have 2 aid stations.

The run course will be similar to the 2007 course. It is flat and leads runners north through the Laguna Phuket resort complex and onto the award-winning Laguna Phuket Golf Course, before looping back past the Wedding Chapel through Canal Shopping Village and finishing at the Laguna Beach Resort Y-junction. The course will have three aid stations approximately 2km apart that runners pass twice.

THE SEYCHELLES REGATTA 22 - 30 May 2010

The Seychelles Regatta is an exclusive, semi-professional competition bringing together 20 companies that will sail the magnificent sites of the Seychelles Islands over eight days.

The fleet will consist of 36’ to 57’ catamarans and crews of 6 to 8 people, mainly from Belgium, France and Great Britain. Benefiting from some of the world’s finest fishing spots; this year’s competition will also include a deep-sea fishing competition alongside the sailing races.

Spice will be added to the competition by the participation of big names in sailing. Michel Desjoyeaux, Vendée Globe 2000/2001 and The Transat 2004 winner, among many other races, has already registered for the annual event which he says he would not miss for the world!

FATHERS DAY IN THAILAND 05 Dec 2009

Thai King Bhumibol Adulyadej, left, waves to the crowds next to Queen Sirikit and Crown Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn during his 80th birthday celebrations at the Grand Palace in Bangkok on 2007.

December 5th is Father’s Day in Thailand. King Bhumibol Adulyadej the Great was born on Monday, December 5th, 1927 in the USA. He is the only monarch ever to have been born in America. King Bhumibol is also the world's longest reigning monarch.

On 5 December 2009, His Majesty the King will celebrate his 82nd birthday anniversary. His Majesty has therefore announced that this special event be known as "the Celebrations on the Auspicious Occasion of His Majesty the King 82nd Birthday Anniversary 5th December 2009"

An alms-giving ceremony in the morning is followed by a huge festival of music and culture at Sanam Luang in Bangkok to celebrate His Majesty the King’s birthday. All over the country, buildings and homes are elaborately decorated and the area around the Grand Palace is spectacularly illuminated.You can also appreciate the beauty of the decorations along Ratchadamnoen Avenue.

SEYCHELLES ART FESTIVAL April 2010

APRIL 2010

Come and experience the arts in Seychelles in all its brilliant facets. Some of the highlights of this year’s festival include: “Arts in Creation”, solo exhibitions featuring the works of local artists; “Nou Leritaz Mizikal”, a workshop where you - the participant - can learn how to play two of the most traditional musical instruments of Seychelles, namely the ‘tanbour sega’ (sega drum) and ‘tanbour moutya’ (moutya drum).

Other noteable events are “Sound of Seychelles”, a musical show and dance performance; full-length plays with local story telling and poems; and a “Gourmet Evening” where you can feast on the gastronomic creations of ten selected chefs from local hotels.

This event organised by the National Arts Council in collaboration with the Ministry of Community Development, Youth, Sports and Culture seeks to encourage creative expression and participation for all, through the provision of practical activities, exhibitions, performances, forums, and workshops.

ECO-HEALING SEYCHELLES MARATHON 28 Feb 2010

The third Eco-Healing Seychelles Marathon is due to commence on 28th, Feb, 2010 at 7 am at Beau Vallon Bay, Mahé. This marathon will feature 10km, 21km (full course marathon 42.195km) and a new 10km walking event.

A Korean Gala Night will take place on 27th, February at Berjaya Beau Vallon Bay Beach Resort & Casino, Mahé.

Course : Beau Vallon - Glacis(5k) - North Point - Anse Nord Est - North East Point - Pointe Cedre - Manresa - Calypha-Sea Breeze-Victoria- 5th June Ave- Bois de Rose – up to Intelvison head office and back to Beau Vallon via same route.

Deadline for Registration:
31st January 2010 for overseas participants

Qualifications: Race organizers reserve the right to accept or reject any race entry and at any time to issue special invitations. Please note that entries will NOT be accepted for Marathon competitors younger than 18 years on race day.For the half marathon competitors must be at least 16 years on race dayCompetitors in the 10k race must NOT be younger than 12 years old on race day.Time Limits: Full Course (42.195km - 5 hours)/ Half Course (21km - 3 1/2 hours)/ 10km (2 hours)/ 10km Fun Walking (No Time Limit)

Souvenirs: Finisher's Medal, T-shirts, Official Time Certificate for all completed runners.

Seychelles Joins "World No Smoking Club"

Seychelles has joined the 'World No Smoking Club'.

Smoking is prohibited in all enclosed and semi-enclosed areas, such as hotel rooms, restaurants, public buildings and public transport.

SAKATIA LODGE SPECIAL Dec 2009 - Mar 2010

Sakatia Lodge is a newly constructed lodge and is situated in a protected bay on the eastern side of the Nosy Sakatia Island. Nosy Sakatia is the second largest of the islands within the immediate vicinity of Nosy Be. There are no roads, cars or bicycles on this island - a intimate nature paradise with the typical unspoilt tropical fauna and flora of this area.

R10, 815.00 per person sharing
Valid 01 Dec 2009 - March 2010

Package includes:

• 
  
  Flights ex Johannesburg to Nosy Be island, Madagascar (via Antananarivo)


• Meet & Assist in Nosy Be Airport, Madagascar


• Road / Boat Transfer from Nosy be airport – Sakatia Island (feet will get wet)


• 7 nights accommodation at Sakatia Lodge, Sakatia Island.
• 1x 3 Bedroomed Villa –based on 6 passengers-


• Daily Breakfast- Daily Dinner (3 course dinner including 1 tot of local Sakatia rum)-


• 1x Perfume Hike with guide-


• Half day Scuba Experience


• Boat / Road transfer from Sakatia Lodge – Nosy Be Airport (feet will get wet)


• Maps and travelers information pack


• Personalised service

Sakatia Lodge has its very own NAUI approved dive centre, affiliated to DAN SA, and caters for beginners and advanced divers. The numerous dive sites around Sakatia vary in depth from six meters to fifty meters, consisting of walls, drops, coral reefs, sand and pinnacles. During boat rides, encounters with dolphins and whales are not uncommon. The lodge offers superb diving and snorkelling, fishing, canoeing, scenic walks, quad biking, and birding. It is suited to families, couples, divers and honeymooners.

Standard terms and conditions.

• Prices are subject to change without notice.
• The quotation is subject to availability at the time of reservation
• E & OE
• Exchange Rate: €1- R11.1