Tourists fearing the hazardous effects of the poor air quality have stayed away as the number of visitors who have cancelled their bookings is running as high as 20 to 30%. Ms. Watcharaporn Chongpowpan, Marketing Director of Chiang Mai Orchids Hotel, revealed that many tourist groups who had booked their rooms for 5 days had now asked to shorten their stays to only 2 days.

Until now, we Songkran spoilsports have had to stock up on food and drink, choose some decent TV, lock the doors and hunker down. But 4 very different resorts to the north and east of the city have realized that I am not the only Chiang Mai resident who shrinks - or shouts - when splashed.

Grace International School (GIS) is building a new multiple purpose building, and the GIS students are getting involved in the fund raising for the project.

Chiang Mai University Assoc. Prof. Virada Somsawasdi was honored as a “Woman of Courage” by U.S. Consul General Beatrice Camp in recognition of her courage and leadership in advancing women’s rights. The ceremony was held on March 20 in Chiang Mai.