Sunday, April 14, 2013

Making a Splash with Songkran (The Thai New Year)


Once upon a time, the gentle pouring of blessed water over the hands or feet of one’s elders and other revered persons during the Thai New Year was the routine which has now evolved or degenerated into “The Biggest Water Fight in the World!”  


At Cape Panwa Hotel, we like to remember and honour the roots of Songkran, so we arrange for our guests to visit a local Buddhist Temple where gifts can be given and offerings made. The ambiance is quite special with people honouring their parents and other elders. Wais are made, gifts are shared, and people receive blessings for the New Year. It is a wonderful setting to experience.  


After this beginning ritual, the water fights began. As we drove through Sapan Hin, returning to the hotel, we were continually being ambushed with water thrown or sprayed by the local people. Personally, I think our driver may have known this would happen.


We returned to the Cape Panwa Hotel to tamer water fights, games, Thai dancing and other frivolities. The evening was more subdued with a Thai buffet at the iconic Panwa House , fire dancing and Thai dancing, and a sense of relaxed happiness.


              

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