Types of Leisure Programmes

Thailand is a festive kingdom, celebrating numerous provincial and national holidays and hosting many regional and global events. Every month of the year has at least one major occasion. Most of the festivals are designed to coincide with full moons, and are celebrated since centuries ago. People from all over Thailand come together to celebrate.  

There are 6 major Buddhist celebrations annually but let us just take a look at one. Wisaakha Buuchaa (Visakha Puja) is held on the full moon of the sixth month, in May or June. It is the most important religious holidays because it represents the birth, death and englightment of Buddha. Prayers, sermons and chants at the wat are accompanied by the circling of the temple three times with candles, lotus flowers and incense (which represents the Triple Gems of Buddhism)

The best known sports in Thailand is muay Thai, or commonly known as Thai boxing. It originated in 15^th century as a means of military mortal combat. The fighters wear baggy, colourful shorts without shirts and fight in a ring similar to those of regular boxing matches. This martial art requires great dexterity and strength. Before the fight, boxers will perform a dance and ceremony to thank their trainers and honour the spirits. Although it is not considered as an Olympic sport, Thais still take comfort it is generally the best in the world. Furthermore, Thailand’s first gold medal was achieved at the Olympics in English style boxing in 1996. It is common to see such martial arts training schools in Thailand that offers Thai boxing courses because it is a national sport. 

Another popular recreational activity in Thailand is Kite flying. Competitions are held throughout the country that take the design and skill of the kites in consideration. It is popular in the hot season, as is kite fighting in which the male kite (Chula) sets out to ensnare the female kite (pukpao)