Five-part Andaman carnival series to kick off in Ranong on June 8

PHUKET: The first in a five-part series of carnivals to be held in Andaman provinces will take place in Ranong on June 8.

Ranong, perhaps best known among expats as a visa-run destination, has plenty of things for tourists to enjoy, said Ranong Vice Governor Supawat Sakda, who announced the carnival with Phuket Vice Governor Sommai Prijasilpa on Friday.

“We are famous for our hot springs and mineral water, and have a lot of interesting culture,” Vice Governor Supawat said.

Called “Scent of Andaman”, the Ranong event has an 8-million-baht budget and is expected to draw more than 10,000 visitors.

“We think the average visitor will spend about 1,500 baht per day,” V/Gov Supawat said. “But it doesn’t matter whether we meet our target number of visitors or make a profit, the main point is to familiarize people with what we have to offer.”

Following the initial event in Ranong, carnivals will be held in Phuket, Krabi, Phang Nga and Trang, said V/Gov Sommai.

“Five provinces have agreed to support each other with respect to tourism. Krabi will promote historic artifacts, Phang Nga will focus on sea gypsies, Trang on local traditions and nature, and Phuket on our Sino-Portuguese heritage,” V/Gov Sommai said.

The dates of the other carnivals have yet to be set.

— Saran Mitrarat