Chinese begin Lunar holiday exodus in the millions

Millions of Chinese have begun the annual exodus for the Lunar New Year, the world's largest annual human migration, leaving major cities to return to their hometowns for the holiday. 

The most important holiday in the Chinese calendar places great emphasis on family reunions, and travellers must get home by Monday to usher in the Year of the Pig the following day. 

At Beijing Railway Station early on Wednesday, thousands were milling around in the cold, wrapped up in thick coats and wheeling their luggage.

They included a group of children with brightly colored bags emblazoned with cartoon characters, a stark contrast to the dark, wintry morning. 

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Readying for a 32-hour journey from Beijing to Huaihua in Hunan province, central China, passengers kept themselves entertained on mobile phones while sipping tea from flasks. 

Many who bought standing-only tickets were perched on their luggage along the aisle, or on tiny foldable stools sold on the Beijing platform. Others dozed in their cramped seats.

In the sleeper cabins there was a buzz in the air, with families chatting and sharing food and children playing along the corridors. 

Rail operators expect some 413 million trips during this year's holiday season, up 8.3 percent from a year ago, the official Xinhua news agency reported. 

Source - TheJakartaPost

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Here we go – Royal decree issued for Thai general election

The final hurdle to holding an election this year was cleared this morning by royal decree that sets in motion the countdown to the long-awaited poll.

The royal decree, ordering a general election of members of Parliament was issued this morning.

The constitutional process calls for the Election Commission to announce a date for the long-awaited election within five days of the decree. The election date must be no less than 45 days and no more than 60 days from the day the decree takes effect.

The law was issued at the command of His Majesty the King and was undersigned by Thai PM General Prayut Chan-o-cha.

For the past 12 months, the ruling NCPO had hinted an election would be held on February 24 but officials have prevaricated on the date since the start of 2019 after His Majesty the King announced that his coronation would take place between May 4-6.

The Election Commission said earlier this month they could not finalise the date without a royal decree, which had failed to materialise as expected.

Source - TheThaiger

5 marathons off the beaten path for 2019

Whether you're a seasoned runner looking for something a little different this year, or trying to find the motivation for your first ever marathon, these five unusual marathons should help get you running in 2019.

Marathon du Medoc, France

If you like to train hard as well as play hard, then the Marathon du Medoc might be for you. As well as ticking a marathon off your bucket list you'll also get to enjoy the 26.2 miles with a glass of wine in hand, thanks to the many points along the circuits handing out glasses of French wine.

Takes place September 7, 2019. Registration opens in March.

Big Five Marathon, South Africa

Running in the African Savannah is the chance of a lifetime, although the location is as challenging as it is impressive. But, with the chance to run with zebras, giraffes, antelopes and even lions, and enjoy a mini holiday after your marathon is done, the training will all be worth it.

Takes place June 22, 2019. Registration open now.

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 3 Laender Marathon

  If you want to take in three countries with just one run, then try the 3 Laender, or 3 Country Marathon. Runners will start on Lindau Island, Germany, pass through Austria and Switzerland before heading back to Austria to finish at Casino Stadium in Bregenz. The route also provides a beautiful backdrop plus a flat ground for those who might be aiming for a personal best.

Takes place October 6, 2019. Registration open now.

Great Wall Marathon, China

Those looking for a real challenge can not only run a marathon, but run it alongside one of the most famous monuments in the world. Be prepared for plenty of uphill climbs and steps, but the payoff is a fantastic view, the chance to run through local villages, and of course to say that you've completed the Wall's 5,164 historic steps.

Takes place May 18, 2019. Registration open now.

Run Disneyland Paris Weekend, France

Unleash your inner child by running through the most magical place on Earth, Disneyland. Like its American counterpart, Disneyland Paris organizes a weekend of running events to get the whole family involved, from kids' races and a 5k right through to a marathon. The course will take you through the Disneyland parks, with Disney entertainment provided throughout the course to put some extra fun into the run.

Takes place September 19 to 22, 2019. Registration open now.

Source - TheJakartaPost