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JULY 3, 2000 VOL. 155 NO. 26
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Cuts
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TRAVEL WATCH
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Leap Bangkok's
Traffic With a Single Bound
Bangkok's legendary traffic jams are of such epic proportions that
they drive the average tourist from the capital in about two days
Detour
Skip the over-touristed early morning Floating Market and satisfy
your floral and vegetal needs by heading to where Bangkok's merchants
shop
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Cuts
Take a trip to Dan Sai town in Loei province for some traditional
revelry
Hot
Spot
Your stomach will agree that this part of town is a victory of substance
over style
Upcoming
Golf fans will be able to get a glimpse of Tiger Woods
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If Bangkok's nightlife isn't raucous enough for you, take a trip to Dan
Sai town in Loei province for some traditional revelry. About a day's drive
from the capital, Dan Sai is home to the Phi Ta Khon ghost and mask festival.
It's the closest thing to Halloween in Asia, and visitors are welcome to
participate. Villagers cover themselves in mud, dress in frightening (or
funny) spirit masks and strap on huge wooden phalluses as they parade through
town carrying a sacred Buddha image and taunting onlookers. The 200-year-old
festival, which is an effort to make rain fall from the skies, lasts for
three days. The first two are filled with parades and partying, some of
it alcohol inspired. The third is more solemn, as villagers gather to listen
to sermons about the life of the Buddha. At night, they shoot off bamboo
rockets. This year's Phi Ta Khon festival is tentatively scheduled for July
2-4, though the local shaman declares the final dates on fairly short notice.
Before you go, check with the region's tourism office at (66-42) 325-406,
or send an e-mail to tatudon@esan.inet.co.th.
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