Songkran from a local & expat viewpoint

The word has spread - Songkran in Thailand is a 'must do' for any curious and dynamic traveller in the country in mid-April (13th-15th of April, 2010).

We decided to investigate further by interviewing one Bangkokian, Khun Poo Chutamat, Public Relations Manager at Plaza Athenee Bangkok, A Royal Meridien as well as Mr. Volkert Geertsen, Director of Sales and Marketing at Plaza Athenee Bangkok, A Royal Meridien, resident in the City of Angels for 7 years.

1) What does Songkran represent to you?

Poo: This national celebration of the traditional Thai New Year captures the imagination of travelers for both its cultural and fun attributes. The Songkran Festival is very much related to water, since people believe that water splashing will induce abundant rainfall in the upcoming year. The purpose of bathing or splashing water is to request for blessings. In order to welcome the New Year, the celebration will comprise of fun-filled local entertainment with friends and family.

Volkert: Songkran is my favorite holiday. The city looks great when everyone is wearing their most colorful shirts and I love the fact that it does not matter what age you are; everyone is playing with water: a 3 year old is having as much fun as a 80 year old.

2) What would you advise the visitors to take note of when they come to celebrate Songkran in Bangkok? Any "do's" or "don'ts"?

Poo: Do's: Have fun and remember to always smile! You will get soaked whether you like it or not if out and about on Songkran day. If you really do not wish to participate, it may be best to stay indoors.
Don’ts': Do not douse monks, babies or the elderly. Most of the older generations of locals will stay indoors for Songkran.

Volkert: My first advice would be to fully participate! Make sure you bring your most colorful shirt, preferably with a flower print and of course a small water gun. Don’t worry if you did not pack it: they can be bought on every street corner. You will get wet so don’t forget the Ziplock bags for your telephone and wallet. Make sure to wish everyone a Sawasdee Pii-Mai (a Happy New Year). Please do not get angry - as soon as you are out on the streets it is 'fair game' and you can get wet even if you are wearing a suit and tie. If you would like to avoid getting wet, make sure you take Taxi's and let them stop right in front of the entrance of the Hotel (inside you are safe from getting wet!).

3) Where do the locals hang out for Songkran festivities?

Poo: "The good start is part of the success" is the motto for the Thai New Year celebration. Thai's travel to sacred / auspicious areas to start with a postitive / happy piece of mind!

Volkert: I love to play Songkran ("len Songkran" in Thai ) so if you want to get a head start; go to RCA in the evening on the 12th of April. Normally, this is the domain for the younger ones but during Songkran it’s fun for everyone. During the day Khaosan Road is where you will definitely get wet, a good mix of tourists and Thai's will celebrate here together. In the evening Silom is where the fun continuous, drum bands on big trucks will add to the fun.

4) Why do you believe Songkran became one of Thai's favorite celebrations?

Poo: Because Songkran is the Thai New Year - it is the biggest public holiday of the year, and for three days most business activity shuts down and the party begins! Bangkok feels a little bit 'empty' (it's all relative :)) as many tavel “upcountry” to return to their hometown to visit parents and grandparents.

Volkert: Everyone is enjoying this together. Thais certainly love to dress up and everyone has their Songkran gear prepared many days before the event starts. The colorful shirts give the whole city a great look and there is still a lot of respect - everything is done with a gentle touch.

Sawasdee Pii-Mai to all of you!