Celebrate Khmer New Year at Angkor Sankranta: A Timeless Festival in the Heart of Cambodia

Angkor Sankranta

A Glimpse into Cambodia’s Rich Heritage

Every year, from April 13th to 16th, the city of Siem Reap transforms into a vibrant hub of culture, tradition, and festivity with the Angkor Sankranta celebration. This annual event, coinciding with Cambodia’s Khmer New Year, provides an unparalleled opportunity for visitors to experience the country’s ancient customs and lively atmosphere while surrounded by the awe-inspiring beauty of the Angkor temples. For travelers seeking more than just the usual sightseeing tour, Angkor Sankranta offers an immersive cultural experience like no other.

The Angkor Temples Come to Life

Set against the backdrop of the world-famous Angkor temples, including the iconic Angkor Wat, the festival blends Cambodia’s deep-rooted traditions with the breathtaking ancient architecture. The celebration involves a blend of religious rituals, local customs, and exuberant festivities, all taking place amidst the grandeur of these historical ruins. As you wander through the temples, you’ll witness colorful processions, traditional dance performances, and vibrant street fairs, offering a unique chance to connect with the rich cultural heritage of Cambodia.

Khmer New Year: A Time for Renewal and Reflection

The Khmer New Year, or "Chaul Chnam Thmey," is a time for Cambodians to celebrate new beginnings, honor their ancestors, and prepare for the year ahead. During Angkor Sankranta, locals engage in ceremonies that reflect these themes, from making offerings at temples to taking part in water rituals symbolizing the cleansing of past misfortunes. For tourists, this is a rare opportunity to witness these deeply meaningful traditions firsthand, offering a deeper understanding of the Khmer culture that goes beyond the usual tourist attractions.

Engaging with Local Customs and Traditions

What makes Angkor Sankranta particularly special is the chance to actively participate in the celebrations. Visitors can join the traditional games, such as “Angkor Wat Run” and “Tug of War,” both of which encourage interaction between tourists and locals in a spirit of fun and community. You may also experience the local custom of "bong vil"—the act of preparing special foods and sharing them with others, symbolizing unity and hospitality.

Additionally, the festival includes offerings of traditional Khmer sweets, performances of traditional music, and even competitions like the popular "Khmer traditional dance-off," where dancers showcase their cultural heritage in mesmerizing routines. It’s an engaging way for travelers to immerse themselves in local life and culture.

A Family-Friendly Celebration

While the Angkor Sankranta festival is filled with lively celebrations, it is also a family-friendly event. The atmosphere is full of joy and goodwill, making it an ideal experience for visitors of all ages. Families can take part in the cultural events, watch traditional performances, and enjoy the local foods while learning about Cambodia’s deep connection to the ancient Angkor temples and their spiritual significance.

Essential Travel Tips for Angkor Sankranta

To fully enjoy your experience at Angkor Sankranta, there are a few key tips to keep in mind. Be sure to dress modestly when visiting temples to respect local customs. Comfortable shoes are a must, as you’ll be walking around the Angkor complex, which spans several miles. Don’t forget to bring sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the tropical sun. And, most importantly, be open to the joy and hospitality of the Cambodian people—they’ll welcome you with open arms into their world of tradition and celebration.

Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025: A Global Stage for the Future of Travel

ATM 2025,

The travel and tourism industry is evolving rapidly, and the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025 is your opportunity to be at the forefront of this transformation. With global voices coming together to explore the latest trends in connectivity, sustainability, and innovation, ATM 2025 is set to provide invaluable insights that will drive growth and inspire new strategies for the future of travel.

Future Stage: Revolutionizing the Traveler's Journey

As technology continues to shape every aspect of our lives, the travel industry is embracing new tools and innovations to enhance guest experiences. The Future Stage at ATM 2025 will feature cutting-edge developments in AI and technology that are reshaping the way we travel. From personalized services to seamless travel experiences, discover how artificial intelligence and new tech solutions are revolutionizing the way businesses operate and interact with travelers.

Learn from experts about how to harness these innovations to elevate your offerings, streamline operations, and create a more connected, engaging journey for your customers. Stay ahead of the curve with practical strategies that can transform the way your business engages with the modern traveler.

Business Events Stage: Creating Impactful Collaborations

A new addition to ATM 2025, the Business Events Stage is designed to help you craft successful events, foster meaningful connections, and build long-term solutions for the future. Gain actionable insights from industry leaders who specialize in event strategy and management, and learn how to craft experiences that not only drive engagement but also build lasting relationships within the industry.

This stage will be packed with strategies that are specifically tailored to meet the needs of modern business events, providing you with the tools to host impactful events that resonate with your target audience. If you’re looking to collaborate with the best in the business, this stage will offer countless opportunities to connect, collaborate, and create powerful partnerships.

Global Stage: Shaping the Future of Travel

The Global Stage at ATM 2025 brings together top experts and thought leaders from across the globe to discuss the most pressing trends in the travel and hospitality industries. From sustainable travel practices to global connectivity solutions, this stage will cover the major topics shaping the future of tourism. Join thought-provoking discussions, listen to dynamic keynote speakers, and gain actionable insights that will help you stay ahead in a rapidly changing industry.

This stage is the perfect platform for learning how to navigate the future of travel, from both a strategic and operational perspective. Don’t miss the opportunity to hear from leading voices on how you can position your business for success in a rapidly transforming marketplace.

Explore, Learn, and Network at ATM 2025

With so many opportunities to learn from industry experts and network with key players, ATM 2025 promises to be a game-changing event for anyone in the travel and hospitality sector. Whether you’re looking to refine your marketing strategies, explore new investment opportunities, or stay ahead of the latest trends, ATM is your front-row seat to the future of travel.

This is your chance to be part of the global conversation that is shaping the future of the travel and hospitality industries. Register now to secure your spot at ATM 2025 and start preparing to make 2025 the year of growth, innovation, and collaboration.

For more information and to register, visit ATM 2025.

Mercure Kathmandu Sukedhara Heights: A New Landmark in Nepal’s Hospitality Scene

Mercure Kathmandu Sukedhara Heights

Mercure, a trusted name in global hospitality, has made an exciting debut in Nepal with the opening of the Mercure Kathmandu Sukedhara Heights on January 15, 2025. This marks a significant milestone in the city's vibrant tourism sector, bringing a blend of modern comfort and traditional Nepali charm to the heart of Kathmandu.

A Perfect Blend of Tradition and Modern Comfort

Nestled in the central area of Kathmandu, the Mercure Kathmandu Sukedhara Heights offers a total of 104 rooms. The hotel is designed to cater to the diverse needs of global travellers, combining contemporary amenities with a nod to Nepal’s rich cultural heritage. Each room provides stunning views of the bustling city below and the majestic Himalayas in the distance, allowing guests to experience the perfect harmony of urban energy and natural beauty.

Culinary Delights to Savor

For food enthusiasts, the hotel promises a delightful culinary journey. The Indian speciality restaurant at Mercure Kathmandu serves a variety of authentic Indian dishes, prepared by skilled chefs using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Whether you're craving traditional Indian flavours or looking to try something new, the restaurant offers a warm, inviting atmosphere. The lobby bar also provides a great place to unwind after a busy day of sightseeing or meetings, with a curated selection of beverages to suit every taste.

Unmatched Facilities for Every Traveler

Mercure Kathmandu Sukedhara Heights 

Mercure Kathmandu is more than just a place to stay—it’s a destination that caters to every guest's needs. The hotel boasts a state-of-the-art fitness centre, a rejuvenating sauna, and a rooftop infinity pool that offers panoramic views of the surrounding cityscape and the towering Himalayan range. To enhance the experience, a rooftop bar adds to the luxurious feel, providing the perfect setting to relax with a drink while watching the sunset.

Accor's Commitment to Cultural Immersion and Growth in Asia

With this new addition, Accor continues to strengthen its presence in Asia, underscoring its commitment to providing travellers with authentic, culturally immersive experiences. The Mercure Kathmandu Sukedhara Heights is more than just a hotel—it represents a fusion of the world-class standards of Accor and the unique cultural tapestry of Nepal, making it an ideal choice for both business and leisure travellers alike.

Experience Kathmandu Like Never Before

Whether you're visiting Kathmandu for business, leisure, or both, Mercure Kathmandu Sukedhara Heights offers a sophisticated and comfortable base from which to explore the rich history and vibrant culture of Nepal. From the breathtaking views of the Himalayas to the unparalleled amenities, this new hotel is set to become a key destination for discerning travellers.

Contact Details

For more information or to make a reservation, visit the official website of Mercure Kathmandu Sukedhara Heights: Mercure Kathmandu Sukedhara Heights

Creative Travel

Creative Plaza, 283 Udyog Vihar Phase 2, Gurugram, Haryana 1220016. India.
E: engage@creative.travel | W: www.creative.travel | W: www.junglesutra.com

Short Stays, Big Adventures - Top travel trends for 2025 so far

Seasonal Experiences Index: Spring/Summer 2025

Inbound travel is officially back - and in a big way, with international bookings up 84% year-on-year. It comes five years after the industry ground to a halt as the COVID-19 pandemic hit and Australia closed its international borders.

The Seasonal Experiences Index: Spring/Summer 2025 report from Big Red Group, Australia and New Zealand’s largest experience network, found that bookings to date are already up by almost two-thirds (+64%) in 2025 vs. the same period in 2024, pointing to a positive year ahead.

The report, which analyses booking data from over 650,000 experiences taken between 1 September and 28 February, revealed that there is finally light at the end of the tunnel for the nation’s experience operators. Total travel consumption, intent to spend, and Australian tourism jobs have all experienced upticks - creating an air of cautious optimism among the industry. 

Key findings within the report include: 

• Sunshine state of mind : Sydney may have reigned supreme as the top experience destination for Spring/Summer, however, Queensland had the most entries with Cairns, Surfer’s Paradise and Coomera all ranking highly.

• Travellers taking to the waves:  Australia saw an inbound tourism boom, with soaring demand from China, Taiwan, and Korea. International travellers flocked to experiences like Scenic & Dining Cruises (+5,494%), Whale & Dolphin Watching (+88%), and Reef & Island Cruises (+148%), making waves in the industry.

• Short-stays over long vacays: Australians recharged with more mini-breaks over Spring/Summer with Sightseeing Tour Getaways (+675%), Country Getaways (+53%) and Beach Getaways (+55%) all surging in popularity over longer vacations.

• Culture calls: Aussies are embracing the arts, with bookings for Art Gallery & Museum experiences up by 30.1% YOY - and they are putting brush to canvas too with Art & Crafts Classes experiencing a 101.4% increase. 

• Wild weather wreaks havoc: Queensland felt and continues to feel the effects of extreme weather - with visitor numbers in Spring/Summer heavily skewed by tourism recovery measures, which is likely to continue for months to come. Bright sports included Ipswich Hinterland and Rocklea - Acacia Ridge who grew by +13.0% and +28.3% respectively.

• Quality over quantity: While consumers are continuing to be mindful of their purchasing decisions, resulting in a slight dip in booking volume, they’re continuing to adopt a ‘quality over quantity’ mindset, with average order value increasing for RedBalloon and Adrenaline as Aussies spend more overall on experiences. 

• Sports shifting tourism into high gear: Major sporting events like the NRL Grand Final and Bathurst 1000 are driving sport-based travel experiences. V8-related purchases accelerated by 32% YOY and Formula One’s Melbourne Grand Prix saw inner-city bookings around the time of the race surge by +67% last year, with the trend expected to grow in the coming year.

• Self-care soars: The Spa category is up by 125.3% year-on-year, reflecting the increasing focus on self-care and relaxation as health-conscious travel experiences are anticipated to achieve a market size of $624 million AUD in 2025.

Commenting on the report, David Anderson, CEO & Co-Founder at Big Red Group, said:

“Australia’s tourism and experiences industry is finding its stride again, with inbound travel surging and domestic travellers embracing new ways to explore and intent to spend on the rise. With 650,000 experiences taken across RedBalloon, Adrenaline and Experience Oz so far this season - it's abundantly clear demand for memories over material goods remains strong. We don’t anticipate this to lose momentum any time soon either - particularly as we appear to be nearing light at the end of the tunnel after nearly half a decade of recovery and uncertainty.”

“The data from our latest Seasonal Experiences Index points toward cautious optimism, with the desire and demand for more immersive, thrilling experiences holding strong. Aussies are continuing to seek out activities that deliver quality over quantity - with short-stay getaways and spa treatments enjoying considerable growth - and they are even planning their travels around unmissable iconic events like the NRL Grand Final or long-running Bathurst 1000; with this trend likely to continue as Australia plays host to more global sporting leagues and events like the NBA later this year and the NFL in 2026.”

To read the ‘Seasonal Experiences Index: Spring/Summer 2025’ report from Big Red Group, please click here.

SANCTUARY COVE TO HOST FREE EASTER EGG-STRAVAGANZ

Easter Egg-Stravaganza

Get ready for an Egg-Stra special Easter celebration as The Marine Village at Sanctuary Cove hosts its annual Easter Egg-Stravaganza on Sunday, April 20, from 10am – 2pm. This free, family-friendly event promises a fun-filled day of activities and entertainment for all ages.

The picturesque Marine Village will transform into an Easter wonderland with entertainment including Pony Rides, an Animal Petting Zoo, Craft Activities, Face Painting, meet the Easter Bunny himself and more!

Explore The Marine Village precinct on an Easter egg hunt with a difference. Instead of searching for chocolate eggs, participants will look for hidden codewords throughout The Marine Village for a chance to win amazing prizes. Registration is open from 10am to 1pm.

“This event is one of the most exciting Easter celebrations on the Gold Coast,” said Marisa Laister, Senior Marketing Manager, Retail/Asset Management at Sanctuary Cove. “Families can enjoy a fantastic day out in a beautiful waterfront setting while experiencing a variety of Easter-themed activities.”

Whether you're hunting for prizes, exploring the village, or enjoying the vibrant entertainment, there’s something for everyone at Sanctuary Cove’s Easter Eggstravaganza! For more details and the full event schedule, visit www.sanctuarycove.com

Easter Egg-Stravaganza at Sanctuary Cove

Date: Sunday, April 20
Time: 10am – 2pm
Venue: The Marine Village Sanctuary Cove
Cost: Free

Unveiling the Lost City: Pompeii Exhibition at the National Museum of Australia

Pompeii Exhibition at the National Museum of Australia

If you're looking for an unforgettable historical experience, the Pompeii Exhibition at the National Museum of Australia is a must-see. Running until Sunday, May 4th, this remarkable exhibition offers a captivating glimpse into one of history's most extraordinary and tragic stories—the eruption of Mount Vesuvius and the destruction of the ancient Roman city of Pompeii.

A Journey Back in Time

Step into the past and explore Pompeii as it was before the catastrophic volcanic eruption that buried the city in ash almost 2,000 years ago. This exhibition brings to life the everyday experiences of Pompeii's residents, offering visitors the chance to see how they lived, worked, and celebrated before their world was frozen in time.

From detailed artifacts to reconstructed scenes of Roman homes, the exhibit paints a vivid picture of a vibrant, ancient city. You'll see objects from everyday life, including exquisite frescoes, pottery, jewelry, and tools that offer a rare insight into the culture of the time. The stories told through these objects make Pompeii more than just a tragic disaster—they reveal the rich and dynamic life that once thrived in this Roman city.

Unearthing the Past: Discover the Artifacts

The heart of the Pompeii Exhibition lies in its collection of over 200 artifacts that have been carefully preserved and transported from Italy. These artifacts, including mosaics, statues, and everyday objects, highlight the advanced technology and artistry of the Roman world.

One of the most intriguing parts of the exhibit is the collection of plaster casts of Pompeii’s victims. These casts were created by pouring plaster into the voids left in the volcanic ash where bodies once lay, preserving a haunting snapshot of life at the moment of death. The casts give a deeply personal perspective of the people who lived and died in Pompeii.

Life Before the Disaster

Pompeii Exhibition

The exhibition also takes you beyond the tragedy and provides an understanding of life in Pompeii before its destruction. With the help of immersive displays and interactive features, visitors can learn about Roman society, from their elaborate public baths to the bustling markets and lively entertainment venues. Pompeii was a thriving metropolis, and this exhibit offers a powerful reminder of the fragility of human existence and the wealth of history that can be lost in an instant.

Family Accommodation Packages

Planning a trip to the exhibition with your family? The National Museum of Australia offers special family accommodation packages in partnership with Avenue Hotel and Deco Hotel, ensuring a comfortable stay while you immerse yourself in the fascinating history of Pompeii. Take advantage of these packages for a seamless experience that combines world-class accommodations with a once-in-a-lifetime exhibition.

Don't Miss Out

The Pompeii Exhibition is an opportunity to experience one of the greatest archaeological discoveries of our time. With its awe-inspiring artifacts and powerful storytelling, it’s a journey through history that you won’t want to miss.

Visit the National Museum of Australia before May 4th to explore the fascinating world of Pompeii and uncover the stories of a civilization frozen in time.

For more details and to book your tickets, visit National Museum of Australia.

Budget-friendly School Holiday Experiences in Sydney For Garden Gurus

Chinese Garden of Friendship, Darling Harbour

Nature lovers and green thumbs will find their happy place at one of Sydney’s tranquil gardens. The Chinese Garden of Friendship is an oasis of calm in the middle of bustling Darling Harbour where bridges over reflective pools lead to ornate pavilions and hidden sculptures.

A little further out of the city, the Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden comprises 123 hectares of untouched bushland. It’s beautiful all year round but bursts into a riot of colour in spring. There are walking trails and waterfalls to explore, resident swamp wallabies, and programs including nature play for little ones under the age of six and a junior ranger option for primary-school-aged kids. Here, they’ll learn how to navigate the park, use specialised equipment, and understand the balance between humans and nature.

Cost: Entry to the Chinese Garden of Friendship is $12 for adults, $8 for children (though kids under the age of five enter for free) and $30 for a family (two adults and three children). Entry to the Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden is free. Junior Ranger sessions are $20 per child. All children must be accompanied by an adult, who receives free entry.

The best part: There’s an on-site nursery at the Wildflower Garden, so budding gardeners can pick up some of their favourite plants and start growing at home.

Tokyo Enhances Visitor Experience with New Ticketing Page on GOTOKYO.org

Tokyo, a city that continuously blends the old with the new, has taken another step forward in enhancing the visitor experience with the launch of a new ticketing page on GOTOKYO.org. The Tokyo Metropolitan Government, in partnership with the Tokyo Convention & Visitors Bureau, has introduced a dedicated platform where travelers can easily purchase tickets to a wide range of iconic experiences and attractions in the city. This new feature simplifies the process of exploring Tokyo, offering a seamless and convenient way to access over 110 top-notch activities and cultural experiences.

From iconic landmarks to live performances, the new ticketing page covers a diverse selection of Tokyo’s most sought-after attractions. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler looking for new experiences, this platform makes it easy to discover the best that Tokyo has to offer. Major tourist spots, such as Tokyo Disneyland, Tokyo Tower, and the Tokyo Skytree, are just a few of the highlights available for ticket purchase.

But the page goes beyond the usual tourist attractions, providing access to an array of unique cultural activities. For those eager to immerse themselves in traditional Japanese arts, tickets to sumo wrestling tournaments and kabuki theatre performances are just a few clicks away. These live performances offer an authentic taste of Japan's rich cultural heritage, and now visitors can secure their seats with ease.

The page also features various hands-on experiences, allowing visitors to dive deeper into Tokyo’s traditions and craftsmanship. From tea ceremonies and sushi-making classes to workshops on pottery and traditional kimono dressing, there’s no shortage of opportunities to create lasting memories while learning about Japan's time-honored practices.

What sets this new ticketing platform apart is its user-friendly interface. With a clean design and clear categories, visitors can browse, select, and purchase tickets to their desired experiences in just a few simple steps. The page is optimized for both desktop and mobile users, ensuring that accessing tickets is hassle-free no matter where you are.

For international travelers, the page offers multilingual support, with information available in English, Chinese, and Korean, making it even more accessible for a global audience. Additionally, the website features detailed descriptions of each activity, along with information on ticket prices, schedules, and availability, allowing users to plan their Tokyo visit with ease.

With the launch of this dedicated ticketing page, Tokyo has further solidified its position as a top-tier destination for cultural tourism. Visitors now have an all-in-one platform to explore Tokyo’s attractions, book tickets, and enhance their travel experience, all in one place. Whether you’re seeking modern entertainment or traditional cultural immersion, the GOTOKYO.org ticketing page offers an effortless way to access the best that Tokyo has to offer.

For those planning a trip to Tokyo, this new service is a game-changer. With tickets for everything from world-class attractions to intimate cultural experiences just a click away, your Tokyo adventure is now more accessible than ever. 

Web: https://www.tickets.gotokyo.org/en/

Last chance for MEETINGS 2025 Hosted Buyers

Applications close this week for hosted buyers to MEETINGS 2025, New Zealand’s largest and longest running business events exhibition run by Business Events Industry Aotearoa (BEIA).

The two-day event is set to open on 10 June in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland with a spectacular welcome event at Eden Park.

BEIA Chief Executive, Lisa Hopkins says MEETINGS is packed with opportunities to connect and do business with 8,000 meetings scheduled for the two-day event.

“MEETINGS has established a longstanding reputation for the quality of the connections we organise. Hosted buyers are guaranteed to come away with new insights, new contacts and excellent business opportunities. Meeting all of New Zealand’s regions from the far north to the deep south under one roof in two days is a phenomenal experience.

“There’s a seamless balance of work and social, and a lot of learning for the key decision makers and organisers of business events from Australia and New Zealand, who will enjoy complimentary flights and accommodation as well as other incredible benefits.

“Our social programme always has an element of surprise, and we will continue to up the game with an amazing opening and welcome set for Eden Park, Auckland on Tuesday 10 June.

“BEIA, Eden Park and our partners from Vidcom are excited to be unveiling an experience that MEETINGS has never seen before. Eden Park is an iconic venue of significance for Auckland and the nation, with a century of rich sporting history – a fitting place to welcome all international visitors and exhibitors,” Hopkins says.

MEETINGS will close with a celebration event at Viaduct Events Centre supported by The Events Group, Urban Gourmet and The Production Agency, followed by the official after-party on the rooftop at QT Auckland.

“The final night Celebration is a fantastic way for everyone to come together for one last time. All visitors to Auckland will have the opportunity to experience the CBD night life, while the Auckland community gets to enjoy this incredible event, in their own backyard.”

Now in its 29th year, 500 business event professionals from Australia, New Zealand and international markets are set to meet with over 200 of New Zealand’s top industry suppliers, destinations and operators at MEETINGS 2025.

Hosted buyers receive a customised pre-scheduled appointment diary meeting 30 exhibitors across two days, and a range of pre and post familiarisation tour options in Auckland and around the country.

Throughout both days buyers can access expert advice, insights and regional updates in bite-size form at the Tourism New Zealand Knowledge and Destination Hub and join lunchtime Celebrity Speakers NZ showcase sessions.

Hosted buyer applications can be made on the MEETINGS 2025 website. Registrations for the MEETINGS day buyer programme open in mid-April.

Splash into the Thai New Year: Songkran Water Festival 2025

Songkran Water Festival

The Ultimate Water Celebration: Songkran Festival in Thailand

Thailand’s Songkran Water Festival, which takes place every year from April 11th to 15th, is more than just a celebration of the Thai New Year. It is a vibrant spectacle of water fights, cultural traditions, and lively festivities that attract visitors from around the globe. Marked by the entire country submerging in water fights, this festival offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in Thailand's rich culture and joyous atmosphere.

A Tradition of Water, Luck, and Fun

Songkran, which is the Thai New Year, signifies both the arrival of the hot season and the renewal of life. The custom of splashing water symbolizes the washing away of bad luck and misfortune, making it a deeply meaningful tradition. People from all walks of life gather in the streets, armed with water guns, hoses, and buckets, engaging in friendly water fights that seem to have no end.

For the Thai people, the act of getting soaked is considered a blessing. It is believed that water helps to purify the body, mind, and soul, offering good luck and prosperity for the coming year. Whether you’re in the bustling streets of Bangkok, the ancient city of Chiang Mai, or the lively island of Phuket, you’ll be enveloped in a wave of happiness and laughter as people come together to celebrate the Thai New Year.

Where to Celebrate the Water Wars

The Songkran festival is celebrated nationwide, but certain locations are renowned for their spectacular events. Bangkok’s Khao San Road is famous for its massive street parties and epic water fights, drawing crowds of both locals and tourists. If you prefer a more traditional experience, head to Chiang Mai, where you can witness age-old ceremonies, visit temples, and join in the more serene, yet equally fun, water-splashing festivities. For a tropical twist on the water war, Phuket offers beautiful beaches and a lively atmosphere that blends tradition with island fun.

Family-Friendly Festivities

Songkran isn’t just for the young and wild—it’s a festival that is suitable for people of all ages. Families gather to pay respects to their elders by gently pouring water over their hands as a sign of respect. This is one of the many rituals that connects generations, as Songkran also represents a time to honor family and tradition. Whether you're traveling with children or seeking a cultural experience, there are plenty of peaceful and family-oriented events that balance the exciting water fights with meaningful rituals.

Tips for Enjoying Songkran

To make the most of your Songkran experience, it’s essential to prepare for the wet and wild adventure. Wear light, comfortable clothes that can handle a soaking, and don't forget waterproof bags for your electronics. Be sure to bring a water gun—whether it’s a small squirt bottle or a full-fledged high-powered blaster, you’ll fit right in with the crowd. Embrace the chaos and laughter, and don’t shy away from joining in with the locals in this fun, refreshing celebration.

The best part? You’ll make lifelong memories, meet new people, and get drenched in good fortune!