There’s some good news ahead. Beginning on 4^th of May, 2004, Thai Airways proudly celebrates its 44^th anniversary with new non-stop flights to Milam, a wonderful destination billed as Italy’s cool capital of design. As part of the launch festivities, THAI is inviting the public to join in the fun and game in a series of spectacular events in Bangkok that honour Italian art, design, culture, sports and technology. Join the celebrations and experience a touch of Italy, and who know, you might even end up in Italy. Those who participate in the festivities could win one of the twelve prizes that include a free trip to Milan.

Take a look the Calendar of Events below and see what THAI has to offer, everything from Italian cuisine to real live Italian opera. And would you believe, there’s even football training offered by world-class Italian instructors.

Never has the City of Angels had so much to offer. Please take note, for many events tickets can be obtained by redeeming Royal Orchid Plus miles.

Jessye Norman Opera
2 May 2004
Venue: Thailand Culture Center
This is a rare opportunity to see opera diva Jessye Norman and hear her sing in a charity performance “A Voice for Peace.”
For details call: 0 2204 9999

Puccini’s Turandot Opera
12-14 May, 2004
Special for Royal Orchid Plus members
Venue: Thailand Culture Center
Puccini’s last opera with a completely new ending by Somtow Sucharitkul. 
For details call 0 2204 9999.

On 12^th May, Royal Orchid Plus members can redeem a seat for 8,000 miles. 
Call 0 2545 1732 or 02545 3743

Football Training
1-8 May, 2004
Special for Royal Orchid Plus members
Venue: Rajamangala National Stadium
Italy’s Inter Milan conduct world-class football clinics for Thai youngsters at Inter Campus. 
For details call 0 2369 2753-58. 
Present your Royal Orchid Plus card for discounts. 
Call 0 2545 1732 or 0 2545 1743

The Art of Italian Cuisine
17-23 May, 2004
Venue: Biscotti, Four Seasons Hotel
A week of Milanese cuisine created by the hotel’s guest master chefs from Milan.

22 May, 2004
Special for Royal Orchid Plus members
Venue: Biscotti, Four Seasons Hotel
Brush up on the art of Italian cooking with the hotel's resident Italian chef. 
For details call: 0 2250 1000 ext. 1229 or 1230.
Royal Orchid Pus members can reserve a place by redeeming 6.000 miles. 
Call: 0 2545 I 732 or 0 2545 3743

Central Special
30 April - 9 May, 2004
Venue: Food Loft, Central Chidlom
Develop your flair for fine Italian cuisine at our special Italian cooking class. 
For details call: 0 2655 7777 ext. 3738.
Royal Orchid Pus members 
call: 0 2545 1732 or 0 2545 3743. 
Venue: All Central Department Stores Win a free trip to Milan
Win a fee THAI ticket to Milan when you shop at Central May Day Sale.

Italian Food & Wine Festival
1-31 May, 2004 Win free trip to Milan
Venue: Selected Italian restaurants in Bangkok
Some of Bangkok's finest Italian restaurants have come together to bring you a spectacular celebration of Italian food and win: Angelini, Biscotti, Calderazzo, Da Diggetto, Dianni, Gigi, Giusto, Il Cielo, L'Opera, Umoncello, Pan Pan, Sala Rossa, Spasso, Zanotti and Italasia wine shop. Spend 1,000 Baht at any of the above restaurants to enter Milan trip lucky draw or show your Royal Orchid Plus card at Italasia wine shop for special discounts.

Onboard Italian Cuisine
1-31 May, 2004
THAI flights from Milan back to Bangkok
Throughout May, on THAI flights from Milan back to Bangkok, Royal First Class and Royal Executive Class passengers can enjoy authentic Italian cuisine prepared by our onboard Italian master chefs.

EU Film Festival 2004 - The Best of Youth
20-30 May, 2004
Special for Royal Orchid Plus members
Venue: Major Cineplex, Central World Plaza
Sit back and enjoy Italy’s best entry “The Best of Youth” from the 13th European Film Festival. 
For details call: 0 2305 2646, 0 2255 9100. 
Royal Orchid Pus members call: 0 2545 1732 or 0 2545 3743 for two free tickets, available for one screening only.

Emporio Armani Privileges
1 May-30 June, 2004 Win free trip to Milan
Venue: Emporio Armani, Gaysorn
Purchase your THAI Royal First Class or Royal Executive Class ticket to Milan and get exclusive privileges at Emporio Armani, Gaysorn. Also get a chance to win a free THA ticket to Milan when you spend 5,000+ Baht at Emporio Armani.

Milan Fair & Auto Show
4-9 May, 2004
Venue: Central World Plaza
Get closer to some of Italy’s sleekest and most desirable cars, bikes and scooters, featuring models from Afa Romeo, Ducati, Lamborghini, Maserati and Vespa.

Plus on 4^th May, see a parade of antique cars and Vespa scooters.
In addition to Italian cars you can see a wide range of Italian goods and join in Italian flavoured activities at the event. You can also get special discounts when you book your THAI tight to Milan or book your Royal Orchid Holidays Milan Stopover package at the THAI booth on the ground floor

Fashion & Design Seminar
28-29 May, 2004
Venue: Sofitel Central Plaza
A programme of fashion seminars organized by the Ministry of Industry, Bangkok Fashion City and NABA (Nuova Accademia of Belle Arti Milano). Topics include 'Made in Italy and Worldwide Brand Management of Fashion Accessories'. The event also features a fashion show from young Italian designers.

Milan Lucky Draw will be held on 10^th June at the Head Office, Thai Airways International, Bangkok. The twelve prizes to be won total 1,353,880 baht. Winners will be announced on 15^th June and 15^th July, 2004. Prizes cannot be transferred or exchanged for cash, but when it comes to travelling to and visiting Milan, who would want to?

Harold Stephens
Bangkok
e-mail: booking@inet.co.th

Note: This article is taken from Thai Airways International promotion “Celebrate a Month of Milanese Magic in Bangkok” and is under the direction of the Public Relations Department. THAI reserves the right to change or cancel schedules without prior notice.