• 
• 

The Chinese New Year is just around the corner and you don't need a fortuneteller to predict that we will need to be hardworking and determined in the 12 months ahead.

But over the next few days, the news of a global recession and job cuts will be covered by the banging of gongs and the crackle of fireworks as Chinese communities across the coun¬try hang out the red lanterns and celebrate the arrival of the Year of the Ox. Here's where to hang out and enjoy the fun.

BANGKOK

January 26 and 27, Yaowarat

Bangkok's Chinatown will have Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn presiding over the celebrations on Monday evening.

Yaowarat and Charoenkrung Roads will be a labyrinth for where pedestrians will get lost. Highlights are the eyepopping acrobats and cultural performances, plus pop concerts and the magnificent lanterns.

Foodinspired travellers will end up eating more than they intended as hundreds of vendors turn turn the streets into paradise for the palate.

SUPHAN BURI

January 25 to February 8, City Pillar Shrine

The ChineseThai communities along the banks of the Thachin River herald the opening of Suphan Buri's Chinese Museum. The immense dragonlike complex houses several exhibition rooms that showcase ancient civilisations and Chinese clans in Thailand. Admission is Bt229 for adults and Bt149 for children. Enjoy free vegetarian food at the shrine and, as dusk falls, kick back with Chinese opera, with tales of "The Three Kingdoms" and classic drama. Call (035) 526 2112.

Just two hours from Bangkok, Suphan Buri makes for a great weekend trip. And for more authenticity, don't forget to stop over at old Chinese market places from Kao Hong to Si Prachan to Sam Chuk.

PHUKET

January 31 to February 2, Thalang Road

The resort island's Chinese heritage dates back to the 16th century, when migrants, both rich and poor, sought to make their fortunes in the southern seas. Tycoons built their SinoPortuguese mansions along Phuket town's Thalang Road and that's where the city will celebrate the Year of the Ox.

Walking tours will take you through Phuket's Chinatown to sample the taste. Dozen of clas¬sic shophouses lining Thalang and Krabi roads are converted into restaurants and offer re¬fined cuisine and a terrific am¬bience during the festivities.

For a visual feast, head to Queen's Park where Chinese opera, kungfu fighting and Chinese cultural performances take place.

NAKHON SAWAN

Until January 30, downtown

Located midway between central and northern Thailand, Nakhon Sawan is home to Hakka Chinese, who settled there some 100 years ago. Each year during the Chinese New Year, the city organises a fasci¬nating celebration. The high¬light is the magnificent dragon and Guan Yin parade on January 28. Call (056) 21 361.

SONGKHLA

January 26 to 29, Hat Yai Municipality Public Park

Experience the magnificent dragon and lion dances and the wonderful decorations along the road, along with various forms of entertainment, a Chinese Dolls 2009 Contest plus lots of food.

Or head into the park to take photos of the beautiful lanterns and take in the cultural per¬formances from various re¬gions and provinces of main¬land China. Call (074) 231 055.