30 countries to compete in floral splendor at Chiang Mai Flower Expo this month

Written/Compiled by Li Xinyi

The spectacular Taipei Flower Expo remains fresh in memory, and now the 2011 Chiang Mai Flower Expo is set to kick off on December 14. A total of 30 countries will participate, with the Netherlands announcing the display of new flower varieties. The theme of this flower expo is "Combating Global Warming to Save the Earth and Improve Quality of Life," aiming to raise public awareness about global warming and promote a low-carbon, eco-friendly lifestyle.

The Chiang Mai Flower Expo will run from December 14 until March 14, 2012, featuring a vast royal garden, exquisite pavilions, an orchid eco-pavilion, a biotechnology pavilion, and themed ecological gardens from various countries. Additionally, there will be a giant floral Ferris wheel, a children's eco-park, and cultural performances. Originally held in 2006 as a tribute to His Majesty King Bhumibol and the Thai Royal Family, this year’s Chiang Mai Flower Expo also serves an important purpose: to announce to the world that most flood-affected areas in Thailand have recovered and are ready to welcome tourists without disruption.

Beyond the royal park, visitors will find plenty more to explore. As one of Thailand’s most beautiful cities, Chiang Mai harmoniously blends temples, night markets, and cafes, exuding an artistic vibe and offering unforgettable nightlife. In anticipation of the flower expo, local hotels in Chiang Mai have launched promotional deals to attract guests. For example, Siripanna Villa Resort Chiang Mai is offering a 30% discount, starting from NT$10,460 per night; Sheik Istana Hotel starts from NT$11,400 per night, equivalent to a 35% discount; Suriwongse Hotel offers a special rate of NT$8,700 per night for stays of at least three nights. Budget-friendly options include Romena Grand Hotel, starting from NT$3,880 per night, and Bamboo Homestay, starting from NT$2,940 per night.

For details, please visit the official websites of the hotels:

1. Siripanna Villa Resort Chiang Mai: www.agoda.com.hk/asia/thailand/chiang_mai/siripanna_villa_resort_spa_chiangmai.html

2. Sheik Istana Hotel: http://www.agoda.com.hk/asia/thailand/chiang_mai/sheik_istana_hotel.html

3. Suriwongse Hotel: www.agoda.com.hk/asia/thailand/chiang_mai/suriwongse_hotel.html

4. Romena Grand Hotel: www.agoda.com.hk/asia/thailand/chiang_mai/romena_grand_hotel.html

5. Bamboo Homestay: www.agoda.com.hk/asia/thailand/chiang_mai/bamboo_homestay.html

Official website of the Chiang Mai Flower Expo: www.royalflora2011.com