Just like clockwork, Loy Krathong and Halloween are over and that means cool season has begun. Here in Bangkok we can really feel that the weather has changed. As of this week, things have finally started to cool off. At 7 a.m. this morning when I took my dog for a walk, it was actually cool! Not cool like I needed a sweater, but cool like at least I wasn't sweating. It rained a lot at the end of the rainy season and the weather was just stifling so some dry, comfortable weather is welcome!

Cool season is a really beautiful time of year in Thailand and will last for the next couple of months before the temperature starts rising again. Though you'll enjoy Thailand at any time of year, this is the best time to visit in terms of climate. Read more about the seasons in Thailand here.

Nightclubs in Thailand are supposed to close at 2 a.m. but that's a rule that is often broken. Recently in Phuket officials have been seriously enforcing the law, particularly in popular club areas on Patong Beach. For now it might be tough to find places to hang out after official closing hours.

In general, higher end nightclubs in Bangkok, Chiang Mai and on the beaches had to follow the rules since they attract a lot of attention. But less well-known clubs and underground clubs would push the envelope, staying open till 3, 4 or even 6 a.m. Read up about nightlife in Thailand and top nightlife spots in Phuket before visiting and, if you're looking for after-hours bars and clubs, you'll need to ask around, as they change frequently depending on how strict authorities are enforcing the rules.

Haruna Ai took home the crown at this year's Miss International Queen beauty contest, held in Pattaya. The contest has been going on since 2004, hosted by Miss Tiffany's, the world's largest transvestite/transgender cabaret.

The 37 year old singer (that's not her in the photo) and TV host from Osaka prefecture in Japan beat out 18 other contestants from contestants from Thailand, the United States, Nepal, the Philippines.

Miss International Queen is a spectacular show, with plenty of singing, dancing and feathers, but the objective is bigger than just entertainment. Thailand has a large transvestite/transgender population and one of the most open and accepting cultures when it comes to alternative sexuality (it's not uncommon to see a "ladyboy" serving you coffee at a café, ringing you up at a shop, etc.). This beauty contest strives to bring that acceptance to the rest of the world.

My favorite Thai festival is starting in Bangkok on Friday, October 31 and today in other parts of the country. Loy Krathong is a gorgeous, fun festival and if you are in Thailand when it's going on, don't miss out. This year, there are big celebrations all over the country. The Tourism Authority Schedule lists the biggest ones but there will be celebrations all over Thailand over the next few days.