Mother's Day pilgrimage

Mother's Day may be six weeks away but like all celebrations, plans are best made in advance. A special pilgrimage to nine temples in two countries - Thailand and Laos - is now open for reservations.

The two-day trip sets off from Udon Thani on August 11 with visits to some of the most respected temples in the Northeast, among them Wat Pa Phukon, Wat Srichompoo and Wat Hin Mark Paeng, before going on to Vientiane to Wat Srimuang and Wat Phrakaew.

The price is Bt1,999 per person. Mothers travelling with a son or daughter enjoy a special discount and pay just Bt999. The cost covers travel expenses and one night's accommodation in Nong Khai province.

The holiday is organised by Tourism Authority's Udon Thani's office and Udon Thani Tourism Association. Fathers are also welcome. Bookings will be accepted until July 31. Call (042) 325 406-7.

New Airbus for Bangkok Airways

Bangkok Airways' brand new Airbus A319 has just been delivered to Suvarnabhumi International Airport and will join the airline's fleet on its Phuket and Siem Reap routes.

The aircraft, straight from the factory in Hamburg, Germany, is the first of six ordered by Bangkok Airways, scheduled to come into service over the next two years.

With a one-class configuration, the aircraft has 144-seat capacity and a maximum range of seven hours. The Bangkok Airways fleet currently consists of 16 aircraft: eight ATR 72, four Boeing 717-200, three Airbus 320 and an Airbus 319.

New manager for Ibis Bangkok

Accor Asia Pacific has announced the appointment of Suzie Shioyama as general manager of its first international economy hotel brand in Bangkok - Ibis Siam Bangkok and Ibis Hua Mark Bangkok.

Shioyama, a Japanese national, has been with Accor Hotels Asia Pacific for more than 20 years. She started her career as director of sales and marketing, quickly moving through the ranks to general manager.

With her strong management background, Shioyama is expected to further strengthen the growing success of this economy hotel brand among domestic travellers.

Charity bowling

Clark Hatch Fitness Centre at Amari Atrium Hotel challenges teams of three to compete in its "Charity Bowling Tournament" on Sunday, July 31 at Brunswick Bowling in Royal City Avenue.

This goodwill event celebrates the fitness centre's 11th anniversary with the benefits going to the Bath for a Better Life Foundation.

Registration costs Bt2,000 per team. Call (02) 718 2000 extension 3980-84.