Warriors of the skies

The summer skies above Phetchaburi will be filled with colour for the International Kite Festival on March 9 to 11 at the Rama VI Camp in Cha Am district.

All kinds of kites will ride the sea breezes, including the battling chula and pak pao warriors. See an exhibition of children's art, radio-controlled planes and enjoy other family-oriented activities as well. Call the local tourism office at (032) 471 005-6 or visit www.ThailandKite.com.

Cooing with zebra doves

The 27th ASEAN Zebra Dove Festival takes place in the southern province of Yala from March 1 to 31. Thousands of bird cages filled with zebra doves from Thailand, Indonesia and other ASEAN countries will keep judges busy as they find the best cooing birds. The red-whiskered bulbul, a little cute chirping bird, will also compete for the "best of breed". Call (073) 522 411.

Perspective on the future

The remote island of Koh Kood will welcome world-renowned astrologer Shelley von Strunckel to the Soneva Kiri resort on March 24. Billed as a "wise woman", Strunckel has advised private and sometimes public clients, about their futures, their goals, putting the past in perspective and mastering trends - and most of all, understanding themselves - to make the best of the future. At the Soneva Kiri, she will talk about "The Way Ahead" over dinner with guests. For more information, e-mail sophy@sixsenses.com.

Pattaya goes Grand, Centara Grand

The Centara Grand Resort & Residence is heading to Pattaya. Located on 20 rai of much-sought after beachfront land on Jomtien Beach, the new five-star hotel and residential development will consist of three towers, one of which will contain the 250-room Centara Grand Resort. The other two towers, the Centara Grand Residence, will consist of 283 luxurious apartment units, of which CB Richard Ellis has been appointed as the sole sales agent.