Four of Thailand’s national parks close due to concerns over COVID-19

24 Sept 05:42 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand has closed four national parks—Tap Lan, Doi Inthanon, Pang Sida, and Phu Kradueng—until January 18th to prevent COVID-19 spread.
The closures stem from concerns by park officials over visitors from designated "Red Zone" provinces potentially transmitting the virus.
While over 140 other national parks remain open, they require advance booking and strict adherence to safety measures, with visitors from Red Zones advised to postpone their plans.

The Buddha Comes Home

Yesterday 15:38 Key points summarised by AI

Chong Para is a vibrant annual festival of the Shan (Tai Yai) people in Mae Hong Son, Thailand, celebrating the Buddha's return from Tavatimsa heaven after Buddhist Lent.
The festival's centerpiece involves families constructing intricate miniature palaces, also called Chong Para, from bamboo, paper, and lights, placed outside homes and temples as offerings.
For three days and nights, the quiet mountain town comes alive with folk music, traditional dances like the Shan bird dance, religious ceremonies, and community gatherings, showcasing deep-rooted Shan culture.
Beyond the celebrations, Chong Para reinforces family bonds, preserves traditional crafts, and offers visitors an authentic immersion into the unique cultural heritage of Mae Hong Son.