12th – 15th May: The 2nd Vientianale International Film Festival was held May 12-15, 2011 in Vientiane, Laos. This volunteer-led festival aimed to promote independent films for people in Laos from well established, alongside up and coming filmmakers from Laos, the Mekong region and further afield. Highlights of the festival were the short film competition that will be based on a Lao proverb: “Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow”, the Rising Star competition for the best young mobile phone filmmaker, and the festival party that hosted some of the best Lao rock bands! What better way to continue celebrating the Lao New Year (Pi Mai) than with some quality independent films in one of the best backpacking destinations along the Mekong river? Best of all the Vientianale is entirely free!
Koh Samui Regatta – Koh Samui, Thailand
The annual Koh Samui Regatta is a huge sailing event which attracts over 200 participating teams and thousands of boat lovers from all over the world. Over five days, there are a variety of races taking place around the island including long distance racing, short sprint racing and cruising displays. Expect a fun filled event, with plenty of partying on dry land too, as those sailing types really know how to enjoy themselves.
Waisak - Yogyakarta, Indonesia
Held on the night of the full moon in May, Waisak is a sacred festival which commemorates the birth of Buddha, his enlightenment and his death. It is celebrated by Buddhist communities throughout Java, with the most prominent taking place at the spectacular 9th Century Buddhist monument, Borobodur in Yogykarta. Ceremonial offerings are made such as fruit and flowers and thousands of candles, representing Buddha’s enlightenment are lit in the darkness. Processions are also held throughout the city. The festival is also known as ‘Tri Suci Waisak’ or ‘Three Holy Events,’ signifying the three celebrations; the birth of Siddartha Guatama (the Buddha), the acceptance of divine revelation under the Bodhi tree and the journey of the Buddha to heaven.
Chanthaburi and Rayong Fruit Festival – Chanthaburi, Thailand
Succulent, thirst-quenching mangosteen or rich, creamy durian? Tangy langsat or sweet, pulpy jack fruit? Visitors to the Chanthaburi or Rayong Fruit Festival can indulge their taste buds with a delicious assortment of exotic Thai fruits. Fruit buffets offer ‘all you can eat’ including dragon fruit, papaya, coconut, rambutan, sapodilla and lots more. Held once a year, during the best season for ripeness and flavour, this unique even is a great opportunity to fill up on those vitamins whilst having a great day out.
