To commemorate Pride Month and Thailand’s historic achievement as the first Southeast Asian nation to legalize same-sex marriage, Siam Paragon, a renowned global destination cherished by both locals and international visitors, has partnered with Bangkok Pride to wholeheartedly endorse and uplift diversity, equality, and inclusion. Together, they are organizing a series of events under the theme “The Celebration: Right to Love,” scheduled from May 31st to June 4th, 2024.

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This collaborative effort extends across various public and private entities, including Drag Bangkok by Yellow Channel Co., Ltd., The Tourism Authority of Thailand, Bangkok Metropolitan Administration, The United Nations Development Programme Thailand (UNDP), Hyundai Mobility (Thailand) Co., Ltd., Miss Grand International Co., Ltd., Tiffany’s Show Pattaya Co., Ltd., TikTok Thailand, Dhipaya Insurance Co., Ltd., Nestlé (Thai) Ltd., Yanhee Hospital, and White Party Bangkok.

Sopida Kitikomolsuk, Global Event Management Executive of Siam Paragon, expressed, “Siam Paragon stands as a premier ‘global destination’ favored by both Thai nationals and global travelers. We are devoted to delivering extraordinary and unforgettable experiences to our guests. Parc Paragon, our hallmark venue, has become an iconic landmark hosting a spectrum of significant events, including festive celebrations, prominent festivals, and internationally acclaimed concerts.”

Famed American artist and entertainer, John Legend, along with his spouse, the 38-year-old model and author Chrissy Teigen, and their four children, were seen yesterday enjoying their time in Phuket, Thailand.

The family journeyed to Thailand for a spring break retreat, reconnecting with Teigen’s mother, Vilailuck Teigen, who recently resettled in her hometown of Korat from the United States.

Their holiday schedule was filled with exploration of Phuket’s attractions. Initially, they explored the historic On On Hotel, Phuket’s oldest lodging establishment. Later, they savored the renowned honey toast delicacy at Phuketique restaurant in the Old Town area.

Their adventure continued with a boat excursion to marvel at the natural wonders of Phang Nga Bay, culminating in serene moments at a secluded resort on Nai Thon Beach, located on the island’s northwest coast.

In other news, John Legend, known for his chart-topping track “All Of Me,” is a highly acclaimed singer, songwriter, pianist, record producer, and actor. With an impressive collection of 12 Grammy Awards, Legend also achieved success as the winning coach on the reality singing competition series “The Voice” in 2019. Additionally, he was crowned People magazine’s Sexiest Man Alive in November of the same year.

Chrissy Teigen, who made her modeling debut in the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue in 2010, hails from Utah, USA, with a Norwegian father and Thai mother.

A notable figure in the modeling industry and television, Teigen crossed paths with Legend in 2007, leading to their marriage in September 2013.

Furthermore, Phuket authorities disclosed their plans for the upcoming Songkran festival celebrations, with two major events scheduled in Cherng Talay and Rawai. The Alive Beach On Cloud Songkran Music Festival will be hosted at the Blue Tree complex in Cherng Talay from April 13 to 15, while a merit-making ceremony and water festival will take place in Rawai on April 13.

After a hiatus spanning four years, the specialized Tourist Case division of the Phuket Provincial Court has resumed its operations, as announced by Kriangsak Rodphanchu. Rodphanchu, currently serving as the Chief Judge at the Wiang Sa Provincial Court in Surat Thani and acting as Chief Judge of the Phuket Provincial Court, made the declaration.

Established initially on September 24, 2017, the division was designated for adjudicating cases involving tourists. However, its activities were halted due to the Covid-19 outbreak. The decision to revive the division stems from the escalating influx of both Thai and international tourists to Phuket, resulting in a corresponding rise in disputes and criminal cases where tourists are either victims, accused, or defendants.

Expressing apprehension over the escalating number of cases grabbing headlines, Kriangsak voiced concerns about the dwindling confidence in the safety of life and property within the area. He fears this could potentially tarnish the province’s tourism sector and Thailand’s overall image.

Kriangsak emphasized the importance of court intervention in resolving disputes, both criminal and civil, concerning tourists. He stressed the necessity of agencies ensuring tourists’ legal rights are upheld and perpetrators face strict punishment.

Moreover, Kriangsak positioned this initiative as integral to a broader strategy aimed at reinstating confidence among tourists and projecting a positive image of Phuket Province and Thai tourism as a whole.

Beyond adjudication, the Tourist Case Division is tasked with offering guidance and aid to tourists in drafting complaints in consumer cases. Kriangsak disclosed that the court can organize mediation sessions within 24 hours of receiving a complaint, a process that can persist until the case reaches resolution.

In collaboration with representatives from the Ministry of Tourism and Sports and the Attorney-General’s Office, the court expedites cases involving businesses facing litigation. Furthermore, it coordinates with local law enforcement and embassy officials to gather testimonies from tourists who may need to return home before the case concludes. Legal proxies can represent tourists who must depart before case completion.

Kriangsak also underscored the significance of interpreters or mediators, mandated to be available outside regular business hours to assist with cases, as reported by Phuket News.