Joanna James
Come the 13th of April, the spirit of festivity is in the air, and Songkran is what the Southeast Asian nation is all about. Load up on these tips for surviving Thailand's vibrant new year celebration and how you can treat yourself to a perfect Songkran during your time in the Land of Smiles.
Nothing says Songkran like the festival's slew of infamous water fights. So, if you are planning on heading out on any day of the 5-day holiday, you better brace yourself to be drenched from head to toe. It only makes sense that you leave anything valuable at home/hotel and take only what you absolutely need outside with you. If you were to invest in a waterproof backpack, suitcase or cover, there wouldn't be a better time for those waterproof gear to come in handy.
With all the water fights that break out throughout the country, Songkran is one period of time where Thailand's scorching heat may not be felt as intensely, given that you actually do get drenched. Nevertheless, the sun is no less strong than any other day in the Southeast Asian nation and proper sun protection is never to be taken lightly. So, a pair of sunglasses, plenty of sunscreen and a hat that you don't mind getting wet could never go wrong when heading out during Songkran.
Anyone who has visited Thailand, especially the bustling capital city of Bangkok, needs no introduction to the country's infamous traffic frenzy. The Southeast Asian nation is certainly not the safest place to be riding a bike, and during the unrestrained festive season of Songkran, it is definitely not. So, think twice before you hop on a motorbike and it is advisable that you steer clear of them unless you absolutely need to ride one.
While water fights and other fun and games may have become synonymous with Songkran in modern Thailand, it still is a cultural celebration revolving around a great deal of religious significance. Therefore, even as tourists, it is vital to keep in mind that many religious rites and events take place during this time and it is only right that you respect them.
Songkran is, without a doubt, one of the most fun, wonderful and definitely exciting times of the year in the Land of Smiles. So, embrace the local ways and join the fun for a memorable time in the incredible Southeast Asian nation. Consider a stay at a fine hotel in Khon Kaen the likes of Avani Khon Kaen Hotel & Convention Centre, so you are just a hop, skip and jump away from all the Songkran fun.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
