Hugging World Record Attempt Marks Valentine's Day in Thailand

BANGKOK, Feb. 13 (UPI) —
Festive events taking place in Thailand for Valentine’s Day include a world record attempt for non-stop hugging and specially planned weddings.

The Ripley’s Believe it or not Museum in Pattaya said 34 couples are gathering Valentine’s Day to attempt to break the world record for non-stop hugging, which currently stands at 25 hours, 22 minutes and 36 seconds, the Bangkok Post reported Thursday.

Meanwhile, the Pa Ngam Mountain Lodge in Prachinburi said six newlywed couples will be treated to a special Valentine’s adventure honeymoon including a daring escape from “pirates,” a flight above the jungle and running away from a giant boulder made of flowers.

Officials in Bangkok said government offices would normally be closed Feb. 14 for the Buddhist Makha Bucha Day, but the popularity of Valentine’s Day has led offices in nine districts to remain open Friday for marriages. Officials said 183 people have registered to marry Friday in the Bang Rak district, which translates to “Village of Love.”