Showing 1 - 10 of 18
Light flickers in US, fades in Thailand
Life, Melalin Mahavongtrakul, Published on 30/11/2020
» For a good part of November, the world was gripped by a tumultuous fanfare that is the US election. And even before the very last votes were counted, relief and joy were already felt in many communities, not only in America but perhaps across the world. For better or for worse, Donald Trump's reign is coming to an end, and the world now looks to President-elect Joe Biden in the hopes that his win will let voices from the marginalised LGBTI community become louder. Biden promised to enact the Equality Act, a civil rights law that will protect LGBTI people from discrimination within his first 100 days in office among other things.
Truckload of goodwill
Life, Melalin Mahavongtrakul, Published on 15/06/2020
» A giant white truck stands tall on the ground. At first light, its cargo area is soon filled with sacks of rice and food items packed by a group of volunteers and staff who had gathered at the Thai Elephants Conservation Centre in Khao Yai on a recent weekend. With their collective effort, the packing and loading process is completed in no time and the truck is ready to roll.
Pandemic guidelines for the LGBTI
Life, Melalin Mahavongtrakul, Published on 27/04/2020
» Covid-19 is affecting everyone around the world in one way or another. But for LGBTI people, they are facing some additional challenges not experienced by others amid the pandemic.
Humanity vs nature
Life, Melalin Mahavongtrakul, Published on 16/12/2019
» 'Let's go to Khao Yai," a friend recently suggested via text. Along with her invitation, she attached a picture of a woman sitting amid beautiful flowers, clouded with faded hipster filter. It was an online review saying a blossoming garden in a Khao Yai resort was now open to all visitors for free. The sight of the gorgeous winter flowers drew me in. I said yes.
Diversity marks TIFF awards
Life, Melalin Mahavongtrakul, Published on 08/11/2019
» The 32nd Tokyo International Film Festival concluded earlier this week, with Frelle Petersen's Uncle from Denmark taking home the top Tokyo Grand Prix/Governor of Tokyo award. The drama, which had its world premiere in Tokyo, is about a young woman's life as she cares for her elderly, disabled uncle in rural Denmark.
World firsts and retrospectives at 32nd Tiff
Life, Melalin Mahavongtrakul, Published on 24/10/2019
» The Tokyo International Film Festival (Tiff) is back, and as ever, it features a fantastic line-up of Japanese and international cinematic treats. The 32nd edition of Tiff, one of the biggest film fests in Asia, will be held at Roppongi Hills and other venues throughout Tokyo from Monday until Nov 5.
The right to title change
Life, Melalin Mahavongtrakul, Published on 29/07/2019
» What is it like to be a transgender person in Thailand, a nation that seems to be friendly to the LGBTI population? Each person would probably reply differently depending on personal experiences they've had navigating their daily lives. But there remains a common theme of discrimination and prejudice -- found both at a personal and legal level -- that all of them face regardless of where or who they are in this society.
All the lovely ladies
Life, Melalin Mahavongtrakul, Published on 02/07/2019
» Beauty pageants are hotter than ever this month as different contests now take turn sharing the spotlight. Joining the list of ongoing pageants in the country is Miss Thailand World 2019, which will be officially launched this weekend to select the best candidate to win big on the international stage.
Hotel Labaris Khao Yai
Life, Melalin Mahavongtrakul, Published on 06/06/2019
» Surrounded by greenery and blooming flowers, the fairy-tale-themed Hotel Labaris Khao Yai brings imagination to life amid this popular region. The story of a king and magical creatures are woven into each section of the hotel. With a choice from 60 guestrooms and 10 villas, this place is perfect for both couples and families looking to spend a fun holiday together.
Good times, good relations
Life, Melalin Mahavongtrakul, Published on 03/05/2019
» The recent Thai Festival in Seoul was indeed a sight to behold. It's not often people can dance to molam and luk thung at Cheonggye Plaza, or eating som tam while lounging leisurely by Cheonggyecheon Stream. But the two-day event recently held in South Korea proved a delight for Thais as well as local Koreans and other foreigners.