The opening ceremony involves several Thai-style long-boats, decorated with glitter and garlands and lightweight reproductions of local temple buildings. Also, they will all be adorned with a carved dragon's head on the prow and bright bands of cloth. The competitions comprise three categories according to the number of participants. For more information please call the TAT Northern Office, Region 2, at 053 - 717- 433, 744-674-5.

Bantak House, offers country-style living in the beautiful, clean, natural surroundings of northwest Thailand. The owner opened the doors to a select group of travellers two years ago and mainly caters for the Danish market. Tourists can enjoy a peaceful rural vacation with golf, kayaking, rafting, trekking, trips, cultural sites and local markets. All a stone's throw away from the Burmese border. In addition, a Jeep Cherokee is provided for local tours and transfers to and from Bangkok and on tours around the area. Please contact the Bantak House Bangkok office at 02-319-0396-7 or fax 02-719-4173-4.

Boat House Island Resort offers visitors a chance to experience easy living in Thai-style private wooden boats. At the same time, you can enjoy sharing the lifestyle of Thai people living by the river. They still continue the same traditions and cultures as their ancestors. The resort has renovated the old Thai rice barges, each equipped with air-conditioned bedrooms, guest rooms, a coffee corner and bathroom. For more information and booking, please contact Bang Pa-In Properties Co, at (035) 220-220-2.