Tag Archives: Thailand

2024 Thailand Vegetarian Festival: A Cultural Feast Awaits

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The Thailand Vegetarian Festival, also known as the Nine Emperor Gods Festival, is a vibrant annual event celebrated across the country, particularly in Phuket. This nine-day festival, running from 2nd to 10th October 2024, is a fascinating blend of spiritual rituals, cultural performances, and mouth-watering vegetarian cuisine.

Thailand Vegetarian Festival – Image via Flickr 

Traditional Rituals and Ceremonies

The festival is deeply rooted in Taoist beliefs, with participants observing a strict vegetarian or vegan diet to purify the body and mind. Devotees also participate in rituals, including fire walking, piercing, and other acts of devotion, which are believed to bring good fortune.

Culinary Delights

During the festival, the streets are lined with stalls offering a wide variety of vegetarian dishes. From mock meats to traditional Thai favourites, the food is a major highlight, drawing both locals and tourists. If you’re staying at a Pattaya city hotel, don’t miss the chance to indulge in these unique culinary experiences.

Travel Tips

Planning to visit the festival? Book your accommodation early, as hotels fill up quickly. For a convenient stay, consider Travelodge Pattaya, which offers easy access to nearby attractions and festival locations.

Cultural Insights

The festival is not just about food; it’s a cultural immersion. You’ll witness processions, traditional music, and dance performances that showcase Thailand’s rich heritage. The festival offers a unique glimpse into the spiritual and cultural fabric of the country.

Unleash Your Inner Festivity: Exploring Vibrant Thai Festivals in Koh Samui

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Beyond the idyllic beaches and luxurious resorts, Koh Samui pulsates with the vibrant rhythm of Thai festivals. Throughout the year, the island explodes in a kaleidoscope of colours, sounds, and traditions, offering a glimpse into the heart and soul of Thai culture.  Immerse yourself in these unique experiences.

Songkran – Image via Flickr

Songkran: A Joyous Water Fight Extravaganza (April)

Songkran, also known as the Thai New Year, is a national celebration marked by water fights and merit-making ceremonies. The streets come alive with joyous chaos as locals and tourists alike drench each other with water, symbolising washing away bad luck and ushering in a fresh start. Things to do in Koh Samui include witnessing elaborate parades adorned with colourful floats and participating in the playful water battles, a truly unforgettable cultural experience.

Loy Krathong and Yi Peng Lantern Festival (November)

Loy Krathong and Yi Peng, celebrated concurrently, create a mesmerising spectacle. Witness the night sky illuminate with thousands of floating lanterns, a symbolic gesture of releasing worries and paying respect to the water spirits. Locals also float decorated krathongs (elaborate baskets) adorned with candles and flowers on rivers and canals. The enchanting atmosphere and vibrant lights make this festival a must-see.

Vegetarian Festival (Late September/Early October)

Vegetarian Festival – Image via Flickr

The Vegetarian Festival, rooted in Taoist beliefs, is a unique display of devotion. For nine days, participants adhere to a strict vegetarian diet and engage in rituals that test their physical and mental strength. Witness elaborate body piercings and firewalking ceremonies, a testament to the deep faith of devotees. While not for the faint of heart, the festival offers a fascinating window into Thai religious practices. You could honour the tradition by indulging in vegetarian dishes when staying at Santiburi Koh Samui.

Koh Samui International Regatta (August/September)

Gear up for some exhilarating action at the Koh Samui International Regatta. Witness world-class yachts and traditional longtail boats compete in thrilling races across the turquoise waters. The atmosphere on and off the water is electric, with festivities and celebrations throughout the event. Whether you’re a sailing enthusiast or simply enjoy a lively atmosphere, this regatta is a must-attend.

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Unveiling Thailand: A Guide to Must-See Festivals

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Thailand, the “Land of Smiles,” is renowned for its stunning beaches and delicious cuisine, but its true magic unfolds during its vibrant festivals. Throughout the year, the country comes alive with colourful ceremonies, traditional performances, and a contagious spirit of celebration. Here’s your glimpse into some of Thailand’s must-see festivals.

Songkran: Thailand’s Water Fight Extravaganza (April)

Songkran, also known as the Thai New Year, is a water-filled extravaganza celebrated nationwide. For three days, the streets transform into a massive water fight, with locals and tourists alike armed with buckets and water guns. This joyous celebration signifies washing away bad luck and ushering in a fresh start. Beyond the water battles, Songkran features temple visits, merit-making ceremonies, and traditional dances, offering a glimpse into Thai culture.

Loy Krathong and Yi Peng: Lanterns Lighting Up the Night Sky (November)

Loy Krathong and Yi Peng are sister festivals celebrated simultaneously, each offering a unique spectacle. Loy Krathong features the floating of handcrafted kratongs (decorated baskets) adorned with candles and flowers onto rivers and lakes, symbolizing letting go of past grievances. Yi Peng illuminates the night sky with the release of thousands of colourful flying lanterns, creating a breathtaking scene. These festivals are best experienced in Chiang Mai, where elaborate lantern processions and vibrant decorations transform the city.

Phuket Vegetarian Festival: A Test of Faith (September/October)

The Phuket Vegetarian Festival is a unique and somewhat extreme display of devotion. For nine days, participants adhere to a strict vegetarian diet and engage in various rituals to honour the Chinese gods. The most captivating, yet potentially disturbing, element involves self-mutilation with sharp objects by devotees in a trance-like state. This festival is not for the faint of heart, but it offers a fascinating glimpse into a different kind of religious practice.

Chiang Mai Flower Festival: A Celebration of Colour (February)

The Chiang Mai Flower Festival is a vibrant explosion of colour and fragrance. The city transforms into a floral wonderland, with streets adorned with elaborate flower displays and floats. Parades featuring colourful costumes, traditional dances, and intricately decorated vehicles snake through the streets, creating a festive atmosphere. This family-friendly festival is a delightful way to experience Thai culture and appreciate the country’s stunning floral bounty. These festivals are easy to find, especially if you’re staying at 3 star hotels in Thailand such as properties of Travelodge Hotels Asia.

Phuket Beyond the Beach: Exploring Culture and History in the Old Town

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Phuket beckons travellers with its pristine beaches and luxurious resorts, but there’s a growing trend among tourists seeking a deeper connection with the places they visit. Craving experiences that go beyond relaxation, these explorers are venturing beyond the shoreline to discover Phuket’s hidden gem – its captivating Old Town.

Phuket Old Town – Photo by set.sj on Unsplash

A Journey Through Time

Step back in time as you wander the narrow streets of Phuket Old Town. This historical district, established by Chinese and European traders centuries ago, pulsates with the island’s rich past. The architecture here is a visual treat. Shopfronts and historic buildings boast a unique Sino-Portuguese style, a mesmerizing blend of Chinese influences and European colonial design. These colourful facades, adorned with intricate details and ornate balconies, transport you to another era.

A Treasure Trove of Culture

Phuket’s Old Town isn’t just a history lesson; it’s a vibrant cultural hub. Explore bustling markets brimming with local crafts, souvenirs, and of course, delectable Thai cuisine. Indulge in fragrant curries, steaming noodle dishes, and fresh tropical fruits – a true feast for the senses. In the evenings, Thalang Road transforms into a lively walking street market, offering a glimpse into the local way of life.

Baba Legacy

Phuket’s multicultural tapestry is further enriched by the Baba community, descendants of early Chinese immigrants. Their heritage is evident in the architecture, language, and cuisine. Visiting a Baba museum is one of the best things to do in Phuket to delve deeper into their fascinating history and traditions.

A Perfect Blend

Phuket Old Town – Image via Flickr

A trip to Phuket wouldn’t be complete without some beach time. The beauty is, that Phuket Old Town offers the perfect complement to your relaxation. Spend your mornings exploring historical sites and indulging in local flavours, then unwind on pristine beaches in the afternoons during a stay at hotels like SAii Laguna Phuket. Phuket provides the ideal balance for the modern traveller seeking an enriching and unforgettable experience.

 

Celebrating the Songkran Festival – A Time for Family and Fun

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The Songkran Festival, also known as the Thai New Year, is a vibrant and joyous celebration deeply rooted in Thai culture and tradition. Held annually from April 13th to 15th, this auspicious occasion marks the beginning of the traditional Thai solar calendar. It is a time of renewal, purification, and the welcoming of fresh beginnings. Throughout Thailand, streets come alive with spirited water fights, elaborate parades, and colourful ceremonies that pay homage to Buddhism and Thai customs.

Songkran Festival

Songkran Festival – Image via Flickr

The Festival and Symbolism

The term “Songkran” in Thai signifies ‘to move’ or ‘movement’ and the Songkran Festival is determined by the transition of the sun from one zodiac position, Pisces, to another position, Aries. Also referred to as the Water Splashing Festival, it holds significance as the Thai New Year celebration. In Buddhism, water symbolizes renewal, with devotees splashing water on Buddha statues for good fortune, while younger generations honour their elders by bathing their hands in return for blessings.

Origins and Timing

The Songkran Festival is an annual celebration observed from April 13th to April 15th. Commencing with an official opening ceremony on April 13th in major cities across Thailand, the festival heralds the beginning of festivities. While traditionally spanning three days, the holiday’s duration extends in various regions. This timing traces back to the migration of the Thai people from southern China to Thailand circa 200 BC. Originally following a lunar calendar, they adjusted their New Year to coincide with April, marking the conclusion of the dry season, as they settled into the climate of Central Thailand.

The Three Days of Songkran

During the Songkran Festival, April 13th marks Song Nam Phra (‘Pouring Water on Monks’) Day, featuring Buddha image processions and spirited water fights. April 14th, also called Wan Nao, commemorates the old Thai New Year’s Eve and serves as National Family Day, emphasizing family bonding. Finally, April 15th, Wan Payawan (‘Bathing Buddha’) Day, signifies the start of the New Year with widespread festivities including continuous water battles, concerts, street food, and various celebrations across the nation.

Traditional Activities during the festival

Songkran festival

Songkran festival – Image via Flickr

During the Songkran Festival, numerous traditional activities take place. Water splashing, a beloved tradition, offers respite from the April heat, with streets transforming into lively arenas for playful water fights using pipes, buckets, and water guns, welcoming both locals and foreigners. Cleaning rituals symbolize renewal, as homes, temples, and public spaces are tidied to welcome the New Year, around every part, no matter if it’s a Sukhumvit hotel like the well-known Travelodge Sukhumvit 11, or a restaurant corner. 

Christmas day at Koh Phangan – A Tropical Christmas!

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Christmas day is looming, and you just want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city? Thinking of a relaxing Christmas break in a peaceful environment? A perfect pick would be Thailand at a Koh Phangan resort where you could chill with your partner in privacy. A few things to remember when spending Christmas in Thailand.

Chilling

Thailand being predominantly a Buddhist country, does not celebrate Christmas like the west. Although you may find some festive cheer around, the best way to celebrate is to chill at a resort such as the Anantara Rasananda Koh Phangan Villas where you can request for your own private villa.

Christmas buffet

There are a few restaurants in Koh Phangan that serve up a proper Christmas roast, but with a more tropical twist. Look out for those restaurants and make sure you reserve a table early on for you and your partner to enjoy a Christmas feast.

Entertainment

If you’ve relaxed enough and want to party, Koh Phangan has options for that too. During the season there are some Christmas themed parties on the island, such as the famous “full moon” party, which is essentially like a rave on the beach. If you are travelling with a bunch of friends, this might be something to check out.

Water Activities

Discover life under water by snorkeling on the island of Koh Nang Yuan. Or take a private yacht tour in luxury and delve deep into underwater treasures as you sip on cocktails on deck.

Auburn Silver is a travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world. Google+

Koh Samui for Christmas and New Year – Seasonal cheer is in the air

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Since Christianity isn’t a popular religion in Thailand, Christmas may not come across as unconventional in this country. New Year, on the other hand, is a celebration that goes big in the local community.

Tropical Christmas

Christmas may not be an official holiday in Thailand, nevertheless, the day is celebrated even though not on a grand scale. What’s unique in Koh Samui is that Christmas has a tropical feel to it rather than the usual wintery feel. If you are curious to know if Santa visits Koh Samui, well, he certainly does and in the most eccentric ways at that!

Image may contain: one or more people, ocean, sky, outdoor, water and nature

Image Credit: Anantara Lawana Koh Samui Resort

 

Things to know

Since the rains hit Thailand in November, this weather condition can carry on to December as well. However, the weather may gradually turn out better towards the end of December. In case you were wondering about the Christmassy atmosphere in hotels, Chaweng beach resorts will be decked up just as in other parts of the world.

 

New Year’s Eve

Kho Samui is one of the busiest places in Thailand when the time for New Year’s Eve draws near. Be it a simple drink, a romantic night or an out of this world New Year’s Eve party, Koh Samui has it all.

 

Fabulous Celebrations

Almost every bar and beach restaurant in town will all be prepped and ready for a big celebration. Even hotels like Anantara Lawana Koh Samui Resort will be hosting their gala events as well.

Fritzjames Stephen is a travel writer, who writes content based on the myriad of experiences and indulgences that the world has to offer travellers across all walks of life. Google+

Songkran the Must Experience Festival of Thailand – The National Waterfight of Thailand

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Thailand is renowned for its culture, and there’s so much to experience where that is concerned. One of the best, and most famous, festivals that happen in Thailand is Songkran.

File:Songkran 002aa.jpg

Takeaway, Songkran 002aa, CC BY-SA 3.0

What is Songkran?

Songkran is derived from the ancient Sanskrit word, Sankranti, and is a reference to the traditional New Year that is celebrated in South Asian countries such as Cambodia, Myanmar and Vietnam.

So it’s an International Thing?

The traditional New Year is celebrated in many ways throughout the world, in nations such as Sri Lanka, for example, it’s the ‘Sinhalese New Year’, in Myanmar it’s called ‘Thingyan’. Only Laos and Thailand refer to the occasion as Songkran.

Songkran in Thailand

Since Songkran is associated with purification and washing away of bad luck and sins, people take to the streets to throw water on one another. This trend has led to the festival becoming extremely popular, to the point that many Krabi resorts with examples such as Anantara Si Kao Resort would experience surges in reservations during the time of the festival.

Things to Keep in Mind

As much as Songkran can be extremely fun, there are also many dangers associated with it. Alcohol consumption tends to increase greatly during this time, and Thailand’s road-based fatalities increase considerably.

Caleb Falcon is a travel writer who specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers. Google+

New Years Eve on Krabi Beach – End the Year with a Bang!

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When it comes to New Year’s Eve Krabi has plenty to put forward to travellers, from lush greens to busy markets.

Ride around

Hire a car or bicycle and head off. Krabi has amazing scenery, and a bike ride is the best way to truly enjoy it all. From the lush green forests to limestone karsts that jut out from the deep sea, it’s a sight for the sore eyes.

Now showing Photo, Cycling

Image Credit: Anantara Si Kao Resort

Warm dips

Located in a small jungle, close to the Khao Phra Bang Khram Nature Reserve, the hot springs are pools that have been created from the water in smooth rocks, with the hot water passing through volcanic chambers.

Beach parties

Beach parties are an obvious hit when it comes to New Year Eve plans and at Krabi resorts, it is no different. If you are staying at a property like Anantara Si Kao Resort, for example, all you have to do is ask your help desk for the hottest party spots of the night.

Ao Nang Beach

Walk to the beach after an amazing spa or warm dip, and stick around to watch the lanterns and wait for the clock to strike midnight. The spectacular fireworks display will leave you speechless as you welcome the year 2018 with joy.

Rocket, Red, Orange, Fireworks, New Year'S Eve

Fritzjames Stephen is a travel writer, who writes content based on the myriad of experiences and indulgences that the world has to offer travellers across all walks of life. Google+

Songkran: The Thailand Water Festival – The Wettest Festival in Asia

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The culture of Thailand is just as renowned as her lush natural beauty. Anyone who is familiar with Thailand or even Asia in general will be aware of the legendary Songkran festival.

File:Huai Yai, Bang Lamung District, Chon Buri 20150, Thailand - panoramio (5).jpg

song songroov, Huai Yai, Bang Lamung District, Chon Buri 20150, Thailand – panoramio (5), CC BY 3.0

What is Songkran?

This festival is associated with new beginnings and purification, which is why the country turns into a massive water-fight. During Songkran, Thai people also gently and respectfully wash the hands of their elders, and even wash Buddha statues with water scented with flowers. In the modern day, things are taken to the extreme with people taking to the streets with water guns.

File:Songkran 012.jpg

Takeaway, Songkran 012, CC BY-SA 3.0

 

When is it?

This iconic festival officially takes place over the course of three days starting on the 13th of April and concluding on the 15th. Many people take leave from work during this time and the duration of the festival usually ends up being extended to around six days.

The Best Places to Be

Extended festival celebrations usually take place in the more tourist-oriented areas such as Phangan. Resorts are aplenty in this region with many to choose from such as Anantara Rasananda Koh Phangan Villas, which means Songkran is particularly intriguing here.

Tips to Remember

Everyone excluding religious figures, royalty and pregnant women will be splashed. Since you’re guaranteed to get very wet, leave any electronic belongings at your place of residence/accommodation. Due to increased accidents during this time, it is recommended you do not ride a bike when Songkran happens.

Auburn Silver is a travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.

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