Phuket runs for sea turtles

One sexy country

"Let's go to Thailand and make a baby" could be a winning slogan as the Tourism Authority of Thailand seeks to lure Taiwanese tourists to the country.

Its new "Made in Thailand" campaign encourages couples from Taiwan to come here on holiday and conceive a baby.

Until October 31, any couple that successfully does so could win airfare to come back another time - with the baby.

They'll have to prove with hospital papers and travel documents that Thailand was where the child was conceived. - DPA

Run for the turtles

Phuket's Maikhao Beach is holding its annual Marathon & Fun Run on May 24 to raise funds for taking care of sea turtles at the Phuket Marine Biological Centre.

There's a 10.5kilometre minimarathon (registration costs Bt200), a 3.5km Fun Run (Bt150) and a 2.5km "Love Turtles" family walk (Bt300).

The starting point is Pru Jeh San Lake, and people get moving at 5am. The last stragglers are expected to finish by 9.30am.

Preregister on May 22 at the Phuket Tourism and Sports Office or drop by Turtle Village on the 23rd. Call (086) 689 2230 or email info@maikhaoturtle¬foundation.com.

Chiang Mai's toughest test

You athletic types ought to be fit enough for the second Chiang Mai Challenge on May 6. The eighthour adventure race includes longdistance running, mountain biking, swimming and paddling.

The competition is open to anyone who's able as long as they're at least 16 years old.

For details, call (02) 676 3869 or visit www.ActiveAsia.com.

Cooking as high art

Bangkok boutique hotel Tenface has given diners a treat by recruiting chef Thawadchai Niyomrad, who trained as an artist and does indeed get creative with his dishes.

More than two decades ago Thawadchai was an artist on a cruise ship, but found he enjoyed neither seasickness nor the fumes from the paint, so he moved into the kitchens of solid land.

Gourmets can now experience his cuisine artistry at the Tenface restaurant Wanara. Book a table at (02) 695 4242 or www.TenfaceBangkok.com.