Month: December 2025

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (Tourism Authority of Thailand) is set to unveil a new global campaign starring Thailand-born global icon Lalisa “Lalisa Manobal” as the Amazing Thailand Ambassador. A teaser is scheduled for early January 2026, with the campaign designed to trigger the next wave of the much-celebrated “LISA Effect” and encourage travelers to experience Thailand through her distinctive lens.

TAT Governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool said LISA’s global influence and creative energy will help present Thailand in fresh, compelling ways—spotlighting iconic landmarks alongside lesser-known destinations—while strengthening national pride and reinforcing visitor confidence. The initiative supports TAT’s broader strategy to maintain Thailand’s standing as a premier global destination.

Since LISA’s appointment in October, public enthusiasm has surged nationwide. Social media has been abuzz with users suggesting destinations they hope to see featured, reflecting a shared eagerness to showcase Thailand’s diversity. TAT has woven this public feedback into the campaign’s creative direction, ensuring LISA’s journey highlights the country’s cultural richness, natural beauty, and authentic local lifestyles.

The power of the “LISA Effect” is well documented. In 2021, her “LALISA” music video spotlighted Buri Ram landmarks such as Prasat Hin Phanom Rung, leading to a doubling of visitor numbers and a boost for local businesses—from cafés to street food vendors known for the province’s signature meatballs.

Momentum continued in 2024 when her “Rockstar” video, filmed in Bangkok, transformed areas like Yaowarat and the former Oscar Theater on Phetchaburi 39 into must-visit spots. The video amassed 10 million views within six hours, driving a spike in searches for Yaowarat and earning the area the moniker “The Hollywood of Thailand.”

In 2025, LISA’s appearances at coastal destinations—including Ko Samui and Ko He—further accelerated tourism growth, with Ko Samui recording a 51% rise in arrivals in Q2. Her visit to Ayutthaya, where she wore modern Thai attire at historic temples, also sparked a cultural movement encouraging temple visits in Thai fabrics—revitalising traditional crafts and community-based tourism.

Building on these successes, TAT’s 2026 campaign with LISA will continue to showcase Thailand’s vibrant mix of heritage, creativity, and natural splendour—strengthening the Amazing Thailand brand and elevating the country’s profile on the world stage.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is transforming the Sakon Nakhon Christmas Star Parade into a festival of international prominence under its Signature Event Thailand initiative. Scheduled from 20–24 December 2025 in Tha Rae Municipality, Sakon Nakhon, the five-day celebration will feature expanded programmes, richer storytelling, and immersive lighting and drone spectacles, designed to enhance visitor engagement while generating sustainable benefits for local communities.

Celebrated for over a century, the Christmas Star Parade is a cornerstone of Sakon Nakhon’s cultural identity and one of Northeastern Thailand’s most distinctive Christian traditions. Inspired by the guiding star of the Nativity, the procession has grown into a powerful symbol of spiritual devotion, artisanal creativity, and strong community bonds.

TAT Governor Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool noted that the festival embodies the enduring spirit and imagination of the Tha Rae community. By elevating its narrative and visitor experiences, TAT aims to introduce this unique tradition to global audiences while ensuring tourism delivers meaningful value at the local level. With its deep cultural roots and contemporary creative elements, she said, the parade has the potential to stand alongside Thailand’s most iconic cultural events worldwide.

For 2025, TAT has woven modern creative elements into the festival while respecting its spiritual foundations. Immersive lighting installations will highlight key heritage landmarks, including the Cathedral of St Michael the Archangel and Tha Rae’s century-old stone houses, enhancing the area’s historic atmosphere.

Across the five days, visitors can enjoy AI-powered photo spots, sustainability-focused creative workshops, a family-friendly snow experience, and Amazing Thailand–branded illuminated star vehicles. Interactive activities such as cupcake decorating, star ornament crafting, and recycled-material jewellery workshops encourage hands-on participation while promoting responsible, community-led tourism.

From 20–22 December, and during daytime activities on 23 December, events will take place along the walking street and Martino Pavilion, creating a continuous festive environment that blends culture, heritage, and everyday community life. Activities begin at 14.00 on 20 December, and from 10.00 on 21–23 December. Visitors can explore local indigo textiles, artisanal products, regional cuisine, and guided heritage walks through the historic Christian quarter.

Local musicians, schools, and youth groups will animate the festival with performances throughout the day, while evening variety shows start from 19.00. A major visual highlight on 22 December is the public display of large illuminated star vehicles along Ratcharoen Road from 17.00. Programmes from 20–23 December run until 22.30 each evening.

The festival’s main highlight takes place on the evening of 23 December. Float registration opens at 15.00, followed by formation at 16.00 at the Martino Pavilion. At 18.00, the illuminated star procession begins, with elaborately decorated star vehicles parading along the route before returning at 20.00. Festivities continue with Christmas performances by local schools and communities, leading into the official opening ceremony at 20.30. The evening includes Christmas blessings, a candy shower, gift exchanges, a sacred nativity drama, awards for outstanding illuminated star floats, live music, and TAT’s signature drone light show.

On 24 December, the celebration shifts to a more traditional and sacred Christmas Eve observance. A handheld star procession gathers at 18.00 at the Martino Pavilion and departs at 18.30, circling the Cathedral of St Michael the Archangel before entering the church. The evening continues with Christmas Mass, followed by a nativity performance by local youth at the Grotto of the Infant Jesus, concluding after religious services in keeping with long-held tradition.

By positioning the Sakon Nakhon Christmas Star Parade within Thailand’s expanding portfolio of culturally distinctive festivals, TAT seeks to raise global awareness of the nation’s diverse cultural heritage. This effort builds on the international recognition of Songkran as a UNESCO-listed cultural heritage and the growing global appeal of Loi Krathong as one of Asia’s most enchanting light festivals, reinforcing Thailand’s commitment to sharing authentic, community-rooted cultural experiences with the world.

The last We-Women Network session was a gentle yet powerful reminder that meaningful change begins with awareness and small, conscious choices. Our session on Sustainability in Everyday Life was thoughtfully led by Deepali Nair, a leadership coach and sustainability facilitator, who shared practical, everyday actions that women can easily integrate into their lives—reinforcing the belief that small steps, taken consistently, can create a profound collective impact.

This was followed by a deeply freeing art experience with Deeptina Kothari, an artist who reminded us that art is for everyone. Through simple guided exercises, women discovered how drawing can become a medium of self-expression and emotional release, and how anxiety gently dissolves when creativity flows without judgment.

As the November gathering concluded, we met for coffee—intentionally without an agenda. In that chatty yet nourishing space, each woman spoke about her gratitude and shared her intentions for 2026. It was a moment of authentic connection, reinforcing our shared commitment to continue collaborating, supporting one another, and doing meaningful work—rooted in the collective strength of women.

Our Vision for 2026

The WeWomen Network’s 2026 calendar reflects our core philosophy: knowledge-sharing over selling, connection over comparison, and inclusivity over credentials. Our sessions are designed to nurture the mind, body, emotions, creativity, and spirit, while also extending compassion beyond ourselves through community service. Titles, professions, and social roles do not define value here—every woman, including homemakers, is equally seen, heard, and valued.

Gratitude to Mr. Sunil Kothari who has been our collaborator and has sponsored Pacific City Club , the space for the workshop. Also, gratitude to other collaborators, BangkokScoop and Digital Living as well

We-Women Network – 2026 Sessions & Gatherings

January 24, 2026
* Sabina Tripathi
Reclaim Your Sleep and Overcome Anxiety with RTT
* Neeru Sharma
From Prakriti to Plate: Understanding Vata, Pitta, and Kapha for Holistic Vedic Nutrition

March 7, 2026
* Community Visit
Visiting an Old Age Home : Bangkhae Home Foundation
A day of presence, listening, and shared humanity.

May 30, 2026
* Priyanka Sehgal
The Aura and Chakras: Learning to Read Energy in 40 Minutes
* Anushree
Move with Ease: Low-Intensity Chair Pilates for Busy Women

July 25, 2026
* Joanne Naraksompong
From Surviving to Thriving: Rewriting Your Money Story
* Akansha
Social Media Checklist: Make the Algorithm Work for You

August 15, 2026
* Community Visit
Camillian Children’s Home for Children with Special Needs

September 26, 2026
* Pacharee (Nui)
Navigating the Thai Market: Thai Cultural Beliefs and Their Impact on Business
* Pooja Mirchandani
A Safe, Guided Hypnosis Space for Women Who Carry Too Much—To Rest, Reset, and Feel Lighter

November 21, 2026
* Nidhi Jhawar
Heartfulness Meditation
* Neelu Dey
Express Your Heart to Experience the Artist Within

December 2026
* Celebration of Movement, Joy, and Cultural Union
Dance for Fun and the Union of Thai–Indian Culture
– Deepali Nair: Indian Folk Dance
– Kamolrat Kitikannakorn: Thai Dance for Relaxation

The Essence of We-Women Network

We-Women Network is not just a platform for pitching products or showcasing professions. It is a safe, nurturing space where women come together to learn, share, heal, create, and grow—collectively. Whether one leads a company, manages a home, creates art, or is still discovering her path, every woman belongs.

As we step into 2026, we do so with gratitude for the journey so far, clarity of purpose, and a deep commitment to building a community where women rise—not alone, but together.

 

 

 

Filmmaker Sunil Kothari’s highly anticipated Avyaan marks a significant milestone as internationally acclaimed director Gaurav Khati collaborates for the first time with talented actress Anushka Kaushik. This powerful union of vision and performance lies at the heart of the film, which also introduces debutant Chayan Chopra to Indian cinema.

Avyaan is more than just a story. It is a reflection of India’s rich cultural fabric, age-old traditions and the timeless wisdom passed down through generations. Deeply rooted in Indian ethos, the film takes audiences on an inner journey shaped by rituals, beliefs and the unseen forces that guide human destiny. Under Gaurav Khati’s direction, the narrative unfolds with a unique visual and emotional language, creating an immersive cinematic experience that feels both grounded and profound.

Known for his international recognition and distinct storytelling style, Gaurav Khati brings a sensitive, thoughtful and culturally rooted approach to Avyaan. His vision aligns seamlessly with Anushka Kaushik’s nuanced and grounded performance. Their coming together for this meaningful project adds a new dimension to the film and makes it one of the most awaited collaborations in this space.

Speaking about the film, director Gaurav Khati said, “Avyaan is a very special project for me. It is deeply inspired by our culture, traditions and the invisible forces that shape who we are. Working with Anushka for the first time has been truly inspiring. She has brought incredible honesty and strength to her character. This film is a journey that goes beyond the screen and connects with something ancient and familiar within us.”

Producer Sunil Kothari shared that Avyaan has been crafted with great care and intention, with every frame designed to honour India’s cultural essence while making it relatable to audiences across the world.

With a compelling cast, a visionary director and a story deeply rooted in Indian tradition, Avyaan is set to stand out as a landmark film that blends emotion, heritage and cinematic brilliance.

The teaser and trailer of Avyaan are set to release soon, offering audiences their first glimpse into this powerful and captivating world.

Thailand has updated its nationwide alcohol regulations, introducing a six-month trial that allows sales during the previously restricted afternoon period. Alcohol may now be purchased between 11.00–14.00, 14.00–17.00 (trial hours effective 3 December 2025), and 17.00–24.00. Hotels, licensed entertainment venues, and outbound airport terminals may serve alcohol beyond these times under approved permits.

Travellers who have already purchased and begun drinking before a restricted period may continue for up to one additional hour, provided the drink was bought before the cut-off.

Alcohol remains prohibited in temples, government buildings, public parks, petrol stations, and all public transport areas—including stations, piers, and non-licensed airport zones. Fines and ID checks may apply.

Most reputable venues in major tourist cities such as Bangkok, Phuket, Pattaya, Chiang Mai, Hua Hin, and Samui operate under official licences allowing extended service. The legal drinking age is 20, and spot inspections can occur.

Visitors are advised to carry ID, drink only at licensed venues, follow venue guidance on hours, and avoid informal pop-up bars. Safe transport planning and adherence to local rules are strongly encouraged.

On December 2, 2025, the Ministry of Public Health confirmed 267 deaths from severe flooding in southern Thailand. Songkhla Province reported 229 deaths, including 142 in Hat Yai, an increase from the previous day. Several other provinces also reported casualties.

Mental-health teams screened 7,340 people, identifying high stress and suicide-risk cases. A special identification center at Prince of Songkla University is handling verification through physical exams, autopsies, fingerprints, and DNA when needed.

Officials clarified that container movement during autopsies caused misunderstanding about body counts. All bodies are identifiable, and speculation of deaths in the thousands is false. Health teams continue supporting affected communities and treating flood-related illnesses.