A ritual of cleaning

Visitors to Thailand for the Phuket Vegetarian Festival have to follow a strict regime ...

A ritual of cleaning

Visitors to Thailand for the Phuket Vegetarian Festival have to follow a strict regime that involves wearing white clothing and doing without meat, alcohol and nicotine. The religious event runs from Tuesday until October 5 on the island resort of Phuket for the purpose of cleansing and renewing the body and soul, according to the Bangkok tourist office. The festival and its accompanying sacred rituals also involve processions, fireworks and music. (www.PhuketVegetarian.com.)

Surfing like a pro

The Quiksilver Thailand Surf Competition 2011 takes place from today until Saturday at Patong Beach to promote water sport activities on Phuket Island's beaches. This event is hosted by Quiksilver & Roxy, who also aim to spice up the island's low tourism season and promote surfing among locals with activities that include a funpark, music, surf clinic and surfing teaching. Call (02) 592 0792 extension 115. Visit www.Facebook.com/theqtsc.

That's a load of bull

The Thai water buffaloes might not be as aggressive as Spanish bulls but they can certainly give the bulls a good run for their money and they're a lot more fun. Chon Buri province, about an hour's drive east of Bangkok, is hosting Buffalo Racing on October 11 in front of the provincial hall. Beefy buffaloes, skinny buffaloes and white buffaloes will race against each other over a 100-metre-long grassy strip, leaving a huge cloud of dust in the air. You'll be surprised - and terrified - at the beasts' terrific speed but poor sense of direction.

Phuket's new kid on the block

The Holiday Inn Resort Phuket Mai Khao Beach has officially opened its doors for business as the newest international hotel brand along the Northwest coast of Phuket. The 246-room hotel offers guests a contemporary design and modern facilities including a beachfront infinity pool, a leisure and fitness centre plus a wide range of holistic Thai and western massages and treatments at Tea Tree Spa. Dining choices at the resort span a wide selection of local specialities and international cuisine in its three restaurants and bars. Find out more at www.HolidayInnResorts.com/phuketmaikhao.