This time last year, I was a Songkran Virgin and looked forward to the experience of Thailand celebrating its New Year. I was prepared for the inevitable dowsing and the first day, going to the beach, I found it a novel way of starting the festivities, being dowsed with water, pasted with powder and greeted with "Sawatdee Songkran". I was warned by my expat companion that we got off lightly going to the beach at midday. He was right; - the journey back was a different story with water coming from all sides as we sat defenceless in the Baht bus. However, the water attacks do disappear after sundown so normal life can resume at night, the only exception being the last night before the final day, when water continues to fly your way.

I have top confess, it did become a bit tedious, going on for a full week, but the last day is worth making the effort to venture out, dressed for the beach, but strolling/dodging your way along Beach Road in Pattaya with a 500Bt plastic underwater disposable camera at the ready (Water pistol optional). The sites you see and the fun Thai people have has to be seen to be believed as the parade of floats makes its way from the temple in South Pattaya Road, along Second Road and finally down Beach Road. The smiles will soon spread to your face, assuming you don't mind getting wet and plastered yet again.

Now, if only it could all be compressed into just two days of fun and games, but without the anarchy that causes death and injury. Wishing you a Happy Songkran and Happy Easter from the UK.

Chris.














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