Aloha fellow senior soccer enthusiasts! As a Hawaii-based American/Thai who has been traveling to Thailand for the past 15 years to conduct international senior soccer tournaments, I would like to share some information about the air quality in Chiang Mai, Thailand. I understand that some of you may be concerned about the air quality due to the annual forest fire burning in the region. But let me assure you that there is nothing to worry about, especially if you plan to join us for the tournament at the end of October 2023.
Chiang Mai, also known as the "Rose of the North," is a beautiful city located in northern Thailand. It is known for its rich culture, historic temples, and stunning natural beauty. However, like many cities in Southeast Asia, Chiang Mai has been struggling with air pollution in recent years, especially during the dry season from February to April. This is mainly due to forest fires, agricultural burning, and traffic congestion.
As of April 2023, the air quality in Chiang Mai is poor due to the ongoing forest fire burning in the region. However, this is expected to improve in the coming months as the rainy season starts in May and continues through October. During the rainy season, the air quality in Chiang Mai generally improves significantly due to the rainfall that helps to clear the air of particulate matter.
Furthermore, the Thai government has been taking steps to address the air pollution problem in Chiang Mai. For example, they have introduced measures to reduce open burning, improve public transportation, and promote the use of electric vehicles. The government has also implemented an air quality monitoring system that provides real-time information on the air quality in different parts of the city.
In addition, there are many things that you can do to protect yourself from air pollution when traveling to Chiang Mai. These include staying indoors during peak pollution hours (usually early morning and late evening), wearing a mask when outside, and using air purifiers in your accommodation.
As for our tournament in October 2023, you can rest assured that the air quality in Chiang Mai should be much better than it is now. This is because the rainy season will have started, and the forest fire burning will have stopped. In fact, October is one of the best times to visit Chiang Mai, as the weather is cool and pleasant, and the city is alive with festivals and events.
In conclusion, while air pollution is a concern in Chiang Mai, there are steps being taken to address the issue, and the situation should improve significantly by the time of our tournament in October 2023. As senior soccer enthusiasts, we have the opportunity to experience the beautiful game in a beautiful city, and I hope that this information has helped to put your mind at ease. So pack your bags, dust off your cleats, and get ready to join us in Chiang Mai for an unforgettable soccer tournament!
Tony.
