In this bonus episode of Travel in 10, Tim and David dive into one of Thailand's most famous and exciting events: the Songkran Festival. Known as the Thai New Year, Songkran is much more than a massive water fight—it’s a cultural celebration filled with rituals, traditions, and joy. David shares his firsthand experience of attending this lively festival and offers practical tips for travelers. Here’s what you can expect:

Episode Highlights:

• The Story Behind Songkran: David recalls how a conversation at a Thai restaurant inspired him to change his travel plans and experience Songkran for the first time. The festival is known as the world's largest water fight, but it’s deeply rooted in Thai tradition as a purification ritual.
• First Impressions: David describes his arrival in Bangkok during Songkran, from the chaotic streets filled with locals armed with water guns to his tuk-tuk ride drenched in water by the time he reached Khao San Road. He shares the surreal experience of the festivities pausing in silent reverence as the Thai King’s motorcade passed by.

What to Expect at Songkran:

• Cultural Significance: Songkran is not just about fun; it’s about purification. David explains how the festival is celebrated in Buddhist temples across the country, with rituals like water pouring, cultural performances, and traditional dances.
• UNESCO Recognition: In 2023, Songkran was declared a UNESCO World Heritage event, extending the celebrations to two weeks across multiple cities in Thailand, including Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket.

When Does Songkran Take Place?

Songkran is celebrated annually from April 13th to 15th, though in many cities, especially Bangkok and Chiang Mai, the festivities often extend for several days beyond the official dates.

Practical Tips for Attending Songkran:

• Plan Ahead: As Songkran is a major holiday in Thailand, David advises booking hotels and domestic travel in advance, as accommodations and flights fill up quickly.
• Best Places to Celebrate: While Songkran is celebrated across Thailand, David recommends experiencing the festival in Bangkok's historic center or Chiang Mai for a more immersive experience.

Whether you’re looking for cultural immersion or just a lot of fun, Songkran is a must-attend event for travellers in Southeast Asia.

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Check out the new Smart Travel Podcast.

This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:

Smart Travel Podcast

Check out the new Smart Travel Podcast.

This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:

Smart Travel Podcast