Hello Group,

Does anyone have any insights ro experiences to offer regarding the upcoming Thai New Year celebrations?

I've been told the typical celebration period is April 13-15 and would like to be at least somewhat knowledgeable and prepared for the occasion.

What sorts of traditions do you know about and what sorts of experiences have you had with this celebration?

Thanks in advance for all replies.

Spee

This is kind of a can-of-worms topic. Some people love it (like me), others hate it.

Basically it's a massive water-fight, with more water being thrown around than you've ever seen in your life. It can be fun! But getting anywhere dry is out of the question.

Then there are regional differences. In the South it seemed almost like a non event. Generally speaking, the more foreigners the worse the experience. You do NOT want to be in Pattaya for Songkran.

I think the best part is eithe North or North East. Chiang Mai has a particulary big celebration, that starts well before the 13th and seems to go on well after the 15th. :-) Positive thing about Chiang Mai is that people actually stop in the evening so you can have a fairly normal & merry evening.

So, do some web searches for some pictures and tales and then pick a location. When you've had enough, fly South.

Cheers,

Chanchao

Don't plan to do anything during the festival except get soakin' wet.

Don't plan to travel anywhere by road. The highways turn into a gigantic parking lot with 2 out of three vehicles being utes full of people with buckets and water pistols, and a couple of 44 gallon drums.

Put your camera (and anything else that needs to stay dry) into a waterproof bag.

Join in the fun and Enjoy. If you try to avoid the water, you will only be disappointed. If you don't want to get wet, then better plan your trip for another time.

Thanks,

Won't be in LOS for the events, but will be with Thai friends on those days. Have heard about the "water festivals" at various locations. Was curious if there are other customs that are followed regardless of location.