International Swan Boat Races-Ayutthaya

[craigt3365]

I've always wanted to see one of these races and it seems one is coming up!

23rd THAILAND INTERNATIONAL SWAN BOAT RACES

AND LONG BOAT RACE CHAMPIONSHIP THAILAND

September 16 - 17, 2011

On the Chao Phraya River

At the Bang Sai Royal Folk Arts and Crafts Centre,

Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya

Admission is free.

http://www.tatnews.org/events/events/2011/sep/5222.asp

Does anybody know about this event? It seems to be a bit out of the city center...so was wondering if anybody knows a good place to stay that is nearby? Would love to avoid driving and having to find parking places.

Thanks!!!

Craig

[AyG]

It's nowhere near Ayutthaya town - it's at Bang Sai which is in the same province, but about 30 minutes drive away. Be aware that there are two Bang Sai's in Ayutthaya province. This is the Bang Sai to the south of the town - not the one to the north.

As far as I know, there are no tourist hotels in Bang Sai.

I went to see the races a few years ago. They were delayed by a couple of hours because the river was blocked by water hyacinth. It was almost as much fun seeing them try to clear the waterway as the races themselves. There are lots of food stalls to keep you occupied, and you can see the handicrafts in the crafts centre if this happens.

[craigt3365]

Thanks! Yes, I did see 2 Bang Sai's when I googled it. One reason I posted this is I was afraid there were no accommodations nearby. Oh well, will have to drive in. No big deal.

I appreciate your help.

Craig

[Crossy]

Been to this one a couple of times (it's only about 20 mins drive for us), nowhere to stay but parking was not an issue. nice day out, but use sunscreen.

The Bangsai folk centre is worth a look round whilst there when you get fed up of watching the boats.

AyG, I think we were there at the same time, remember the water hyacinth issue.

EDIT The place to view the racing is here 14.152816,100.516586