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!

Itinerary of a multidimensional Saturday in Bangkok

The city of Angels, which attracts many business travelers during the week, has many activities to offer for those in search of a stimulating weekend getaway.

SATURDAY

06:00am: Rise early – it’s worth it. All around Bangkok and – more specifically in Banglamphu – Bangkokians perpetuate the tradition of day’s sustenance donation to the monks while monks’ promenade on their alms route in the early morning.

08:00am: This early stroll might have stimulated your appetite and real Thai breakfast is a must-try once in a lifetime. What about trying a Khao Tom, a very popular local rice soup? For a porridge-like version, opt for the Johk that you can find in almost all local restaurants and street stalls.

08:30am: It is just about the right time to experience one of the most extraordinary attractions in Thailand - Wat Pho. Not only does the Reclining Buddha measure 46 meters, but he also displays the 108 auspicious traits that signify the birth of a pre-destined Buddha. Mingle with the locals and take the SkyTrain to Saphan Thaksin station followed by a boat-taxi to Wat Po.

10:00am: After you’ve toured the grounds of the Reclining Buddha, visit the Massage School found within the grounds of Wat Pho for a relaxing foot reflexology or full body massage at reasonable prices.

10:30am: What about discovering another one of Bangkok’s cultural landmarks? Head to the Grand Palace, the City of Angels’ most well-known sight. You will have the chance to visit Wat Phra Kaew, and its 14th century Emerald Buddha. If you need a little tonic, sample the delicious and traditional thai coffee called Oliang, prepared in a tall skinny pot found in many of the street stalls.

12:30pm: It is time for lunch and you’re only a few steps from some of the most romantic spots for a traditional Thai lunch – Bangkok riverside.

02:00pm: After a cultural morning, you wouldn’t mind enjoying a real shopping experience…and what an experience! Jump into the futuristic Skytrain and admire Bangkok skyline until Siam station. It is one of Bangkokians' favorite shopping destinations to find good deals at Thai stylists’ tiny boutiques. If your shopping experience is getting a little intense, rest on a terrace and observe the crowd of insatiable shoppers passing by.

07:00pm: Have you ever dreamt about travelling to the other side of the world for one night? Bangkok makes your dream come true with a palette of international cuisine all around the city. At Plaza Athénée Bangkok, A Royal Méridien, choose between seven different dining options, ranging from Cantonese to Japanese , Thai, International and French. I am torn between suggesting the tender Seared Dover sole on Parmesan crust at The Reflexions or the Barbecued Hong Kong-style suckling pig at Silk Road - so what about staying a little longer and trying it all?

...finish the night off on top of State Tower at Sirocco which boasts a breathtaking expansive view over the Bangkok Skyline.

Coming next week: Itinerary of a memorable Sunday in Bangkok

A colour for Every Day

Have you ever wondered why so many people were wearing a yellow shirt the last time you were in Bangkok? You probably experienced this phenomenon on a Monday – for which yellow is the color of the day.

In Thai culture, a colour is dedicated to every day of the week, based on the God who protects the day. The colour of the birth day is considered most important - it is tradition that you wear the color of your birth day on your birthday for it is an auspicious occasion.

Do you know which day you were born? Click here to find out.

If you were born on a...:

Monday - your colour is yellow
Tuesday - your colour is pink
Wednesday - your colour is green
Thursday - your colour is orange
Friday - your colour is blue
Saturday - your colour is purple
Sunday - your colour is red

In Thailand, where the jewels have the pride of place, this tradition can be followed in style.

From the 26th of February until the 2nd of March, Bangkok has the privilege to host the exclusive 45th Gems & Jewellery Fair featuring over 1'200 exhibitors which will display their latest creations. Start your visit right and stay at the Plaza Athénée Bangkok, A Royal Meridien - only steps away from Phloen Chit Skytrain Station.

For accommodation and exclusive offers, visit our website.