Asean Family Rally 2010 – Day 1

The Asean Family Rally was initiated by Thailand to promote overland tourism and, most importantly, to foster closer relationship her neighbouring countries. Its inaugural event held during 2009 was a great success. Then, the Singapore team comprising 11 cars and 24 crew members drove from Singapore to Pattalung (Southern Province of the Thai Kingdom) to participate in the 2-day rally. The rare experience of driving on scenic country roads with fellow participants from all over South-East Asia and the warmth hospitality displayed by the Thai host made this event so special for those who made the trip. Story of the event can be found at http://singaporecarboy.blogspot.com/2009/02/asean-family-rally-2009-content-page.html


The following photo essay provides a summary of Day 1 (12th Nov 2011).


After some delays, Thailand managed to host the subsequent event titled “Hug Thailand Grand Rally” in Bangkok from 12th till 14th November 2010.


The host extended invitation to the Singapore team through Singapore Tourism Board. Again, I was honoured to be given the opportunity to lead the mission with a team of 12 members including drivers, co-drivers, treasure-hunters, photographers, radio-man and an entertainer! This time we left our cars at home because the event took on a different format. On 12 Nov 2011 (Day 1), our host arranged air passage for us to fly from Singapore to Bangkok. We were promptly greeted by the event officials at Suvannabhumi International Airport.

Participants were checked into this relatively new service apartment (Chatrium Suites) situated along the majestic Chao Phraya River.

A press conference was held in the afternoon at the grand hall of the same venue. Leaders of each participating team (country) were on stage to field questions from the media and fellow participants.

All participants were later invited to a river cruise with international dinner buffet served onbaord.

Till this day, the river still provides a major form of transportaion for commuters within Bangkok city. Long tail water-taxis and crowded ferries are a common sight along the water way. However, the busy scene is transformed into beautiful scenery as night falls. Some of the distinctive landmarks spotted during our evening cruise include the rich architecture of a Thai temple, ....

…an unmistakable Roman Catholic Church with its sky high blue cross,…

...the impressive Rama IX cable-stayed bridge, ….

, and an interesting row of historic and modern buildings lining the river.

On board, a bubbly Thai female journalist took turns to interview a representative from every country.


Particpants were in party mood even before the rally has started.

Although the night was still young when the boat returned to the jetty at Chatrium Suites, it was a well planned party that contributed towards the success of the event.