Weekly Update 1st week of May 2026

The Royal Ploughing Ceremony 2026

The Royal Ploughing Ceremony 2026 is one of Thailand’s most significant traditional events, marking the official start of the rice-growing season and honoring the nation’s farmers. It will be held at Sanam Luang on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, with the Rice Grains Blessing Ceremony taking place one day earlier on Tuesday, May 12. The event will be broadcast nationwide via the Television Pool of Thailand.

Rooted in ancient Brahmin and Buddhist traditions, the ceremony combines religious rituals with symbolic agricultural practices. Sacred oxen plough a ceremonial field, and officials scatter rice seeds to bless the upcoming planting season. The foods chosen by the oxen are interpreted by royal Brahmins to predict rainfall, crop yields, and overall agricultural prosperity.

Beyond its ritual significance, the ceremony reflects Thailand’s deep connection to agriculture, especially rice cultivation, which has long been central to the country’s economy and culture. Recognized as Farmers’ Day, it serves to encourage farmers and reinforce confidence in the new growing season.

Although primarily a government holiday, the Royal Ploughing Ceremony remains a highly respected national tradition, blending spirituality, royal heritage, and agricultural symbolism in modern Thailand.

‍

‍

Flying Termites in the Rainy Season: What They Are and How to Handle Them

When the rainy season arrives, one common sight in many homes is the sudden appearance of flying insects swarming around lights at night. These are flying termites, often mistaken for ants. While they may look alarming, they are not dangerous to people—but they can become a problem if left unchecked.

What Are Flying Termites?

Flying termites are the reproductive stage of termites. They usually emerge after rain, when the air is humid and conditions are ideal for them to leave their colonies and start new ones. You’ll often notice them gathering around bright lights in large numbers, especially in the evening.

After a short flight, they shed their wings and look for places to settle—this is when they can start forming new colonies, sometimes inside wooden structures in your home.

Are They Dangerous?

The insects themselves don’t bite or harm humans. However, the real concern is what comes next. If they successfully settle, termites can slowly damage wood, furniture, and even the structure of your house over time.

How to Handle Them When They Appear

If you suddenly see a swarm:

• Turn off bright lights or switch to warmer, dimmer lighting to reduce attraction
• Close doors and windows to keep them from entering
• Use a broom or vacuum to remove them quickly
• Dispose of them promptly, especially if they’ve dropped their wings

Avoid spraying too many chemicals indoors—simple removal is often enough for short-term control.

How to Prevent Them

Prevention is the key to avoiding long-term problems:

• Keep your home dry and well-ventilated, as termites thrive in moisture
• Fix leaks and reduce damp areas, especially near wooden structures
• Seal cracks and gaps in walls, windows, and doors
• Install window screens or mesh to block entry
• Check wooden furniture regularly for signs of damage, such as hollow sounds or tiny holes

You can also reduce outdoor lighting near entrances during peak swarming periods to avoid attracting them in the first place.

Stay Prepared, Not Worried

Flying termites may be a common part of the rainy season, but they don’t have to be a major concern. With simple awareness and quick action, you can manage them easily and protect your home from potential damage.

A little prevention goes a long way in keeping your rainy season calm, clean, and worry-free.

‍

‍

Velvet Partner Spotlight: HomHuan and seasonal menu

‍

This summer, treat yourself to a vibrant selection of seasonal delights crafted to refresh and satisfy. At the heart of the menu is the limited-time Mango Yogurt Smoothie—made with ripe mangoes and authentic Meiji yogurt, delivering a perfectly smooth blend of sweetness and refreshing tang in every sip.

Complement your drink with our Cake of the Day selection, featuring crowd favorites such as Tiramisu, Chocolate Tart, Coconut Cream Pie, New York Cheesecake, Oreo Banoffee, and Carrot Cake—each one a delightful indulgence for any dessert lover.

‍

For a savory twist, savor the Hawaiian Butter Garlic Shrimp. This flavorful dish pairs juicy shrimp with rich garlic butter, sweet pineapple, and a hint of lemon, creating a delicious balance of sweet and savory notes.

‍

Exclusively for Velvet & Diamond members, enjoy a special 10% discount.

Make the most of the season—these limited-time summer delights are not to be missed.

‍

‍

Muscle  Cramps : Causes and First Aid

Muscle Cramps are sudden, involuntary contractions of one or more muscles. They cause the muscle to become a hard lump and are often very painful.

Common Causes and Risk Factors

• Muscle Overuse: Strenuous exercise for long periods or repetitive use of a muscle until it fatigues.
• Dehydration and Electrolyte Imbalance: Loss of fluids or an imbalance of essential minerals like sodium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium.
• Poor Blood Circulation: Staying in the same position (sitting or standing) for too long, which restricts blood flow to the muscles.
• Temperature Extremes: Exercising in intense heat or sudden exposure to cold.
• Underlying Medical Conditions: Certain conditions such as diabetes, liver disease, kidney disease, or narrowed arteries.
• Vitamin Deficiencies: A lack of Vitamin B or Vitamin D may increase the frequency of cramps.

‍

First Aid Procedures for Muscle Cramps

When a cramp occurs, follow these steps to help the muscle relax quickly:

1. Stretch: Slowly stretch the cramped muscle in the opposite direction of the contraction and hold it for a few moments. 

• For calf cramps: Straighten your leg and pull the top of your foot toward your head.

2. Gentle Massage: Use your fingers to gently massage the hardened area to improve blood circulation.
3. Apply Heat or Cold:

• Heat: Use a heating pad or warm towel to relax the muscle and increase blood flow.
• Cold: Use an ice pack to numb the area and reduce pain after the muscle has started to relax.

4. Rehydrate: Drink water or an electrolyte sports drink if the cramp was caused by heavy sweating or dehydration.

‍

‍

Celebrating 40 Years Together at Nichada: The Grand Season Finale at Secret Garden! 🌸✨

Get ready for an extraordinary evening as we celebrate a major milestone: 40 wonderful years of community, connection, and memories at Nichada Thani. This isn't just any market; it is our Season Finale and the final night market of the first half of the year before we take a 3-month break for the rainy season.

Why You Can't Miss This Event

Step into a warm garden atmosphere designed for friends and neighbors to reconnect and share meaningful moments. The evening is packed with activities to ensure a night full of smiles and music for the whole family:

• Kids Market & Shopping: Support our young entrepreneurs and browse through various local shops.

• Food & Beer Garden: Relax and unwind with delicious food and refreshing drinks in a lively setting.

• Family Fun: Keep the little ones entertained with a Bouncy Castle, music, and fun activities.

• Capture the Moment: Don’t forget to visit the Photo Booth to commemorate our 40th anniversary together.

Event Details

• 📅 Date: Saturday, May 16th, 2026
• ⏰ Time: 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
• 📍 Location: Secret Garden, Nichada Thani

‍