Bangkok, 17 March, 2015 – The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is inviting local and international tourists to explore the fascinating culture of Thai rice while discovering the unique essence of Thai traditions at the ‘Thai rice: Thainess’ fair, currently being held at the area along Khlong Phadung Krungkasem near Government House in Bangkok, from now until 5 April, 2015.
The event, initiated by Prime Minister General Prayut Chan-o-cha, is organised with the objective of offering the opportunity for growers of good quality rice from communities around Thailand to promote their products directly to consumers in Bangkok.
Mr. Thawatchai Arunyik, TAT Governor said, “Rice is the staple food of the Thai people, and it plays a crucial role in the many centuries-old traditions and cultural practices. At the fair, tourists will have the opportunity to interact directly with rice growers from all over Thailand, see a display of rice sprouts, and learn the history of Thai rice and the important role it plays influencing the Thai way of life.”
Visitors will get the chance to witness demonstrations of Thai traditions linked with rice farming as well as see how rice can be processed into different kinds of products; such as, germinated brown rice, cosmetics made of rice, and sticky rice ice cream. Visitors can also learn how to cook rice the Thai way in a workshop, and buy quality rice at good prices.
Mr. Thawatchai said, “We would like to invite both local and international tourists who are interested in getting to know more about Thailand’s rice culture, rice farming and rice trade, which is the backbone industry of Thailand, to join this event. It will certainly help widen your perspective on the genuine Thai culture that makes Thailand very unique as a nation and as a tourist destination.”
The event is open daily until 5 April 2015, from 11.00 – 19.00 hrs.