Taming the rapids in Phitsanulok The rafting season kicks off in Phitsanulok with the "Taste Kaeng Song Coffee and Raft on Nam Khek Stream Festival" during July 1-11. Apart from the fast rapids, rafting along the stream is an environmentally-friendly way to admire nature. The Tourism Authority of Thailand is using it as a model to develop rafting tours in Thailand, with support from the World Tourism Organisation.Nam Khek is fed by rainwater from Khao Khor mountains and Thung Salaeng Luang National Park in neighbouring Phetchabun province. From July to September, Wang Thong district, through which the Nam Khek runs, is packed with rafting enthusiasts converging there to test their skills on the swollen stream. A rafting competition is planned, with the winner taking 20,000 baht in cash prize. Apart from that, an exhibition of high-quality rafting gears and rafting packages will be available. For more details, call the Tourism Authority of Thailand's Northern Region III office at 055-252-742-3 and 055-259-907. Bangkok Post June 2005 www.bangkokpost.com |