Water World

Thai New Year (Songkran) is a time of celebration. Many Thais return home during Mid-April, to visit family and friends. However, there is a rather unfortunate aspect of these festivities. The tradition which sounds harmless, but a bit mischievous, involves flinging water at one another. Sounds fun until you get doused by the hard flung contents of a bucket whilst driving a motorcycle. I’ve known of more than one person who ended up with a case of road rash from falling after being surprised by an unexpected splash to the face. The problem is that everyone is fair game during Songkram. If you’re outdoor, you’re going to get wet, probably when you least expect it.

The water throwing has gotten so aggressive that Thai officials have tried to impose restrictions on the tradition in order to give those who do not appreciate it time to go about their business in a state of dryness.

According the the Bangkok Recorder, nearly 100 people have died thus far throughout the country due to road accidents. Over 1000 have been injured.

These casualties are often due to overzealous water throwing, although the above normal levels of traffic and the fact that many mark Songkran by consuming large amounts of alcohol are surely to blame as well.

I have met several sets of travellers who thought that their vacations were “ruined” because they chose to come to Thailand during this time. The truth is, were I to spend hard earned money on a vacation, I would feel the same as them. The water throwing is too aggressive and the fact that you have to feel apprehensive about going ANYWHERE because of the high number of accidents is a big turn off.

If you want to experience a gentler version of this festival, both Cambodia and Laos have beautiful ways of celebrating. This includes water throwing, though without the same full on approach as Thailand.

So you don’t think I am too negative, if you have Thai friends and have the chance to spend time with their family during Songkran, you may find an enjoyable time full of food, conversations and family traditions.