Thailand

Thailand is in the Southeast of Asia, with Laos and Cambodia to the east and the Gulf of Thailand and Malaysianextto Burma (Myanmar) on its west. The capital is Bangkok, the country's official language is Thai. In touristic resorts people also speak the English language. The history of Thailand is estimated to be dating 10,000 years, up to the paleolithic era. Visitors will encounter super-rich archaeological sites of cultural heritage. The temples of worship of Buddha abound in the region, contributing to the exotic environment of the place. Thailand is the only country in Southeast Asia that avoided colonization, thus preserving the history and cultural heritage. The ancient monuments, temples and deserted cities all attest to the magnificent past of Thailand, a wonderful destination for your holidays. The historical treasures match with the wonderful nature. Thailand has many picturesque islands and beaches as well as 90 national parks and an amazing wildlife. The Thais are renowned for their friendliness and smile .

Friday, April 15, 2011

Songkran Thailand's Water Festival

Stay indoors on the 14th of April - if you happen to be in Thailand. Or step out if you love water... and getting wet! For it's a given that you won't escape the water pistols, the water balloons and buckets of water as the Thais celebrate Songkran, the Thai New Year.
'Songkran' (from the Sanskrit word Sankranti, signifying the sun's shift from one zodiac to another) heralds the beginning of the solar year and is the most important festival for the people of Thailand. The festival is celebrated over three days, 'Mahasongkran' on the 14th of April marks the end of the old year, Wan Nao (15th April) is the day after and April 15 is Wan Thaloeng Sok when the New Year begins. Sonkgran is akin to the Indian festival of Holi and the Chinese festival of Ching Ming. Though it is celebrated all over Thailand with great gusto and enthusiam, it is in Chiang Mai that the Thais hold the very important ritual of bathing the Buddha and people from all over come to be witness to this event.
On New Year's Day, Thais pray to the Buddha, clean temples and houses, offer alms to the monks and sprinkle scented water on elders as a mark of respect. The pouring of water is symbolic of the cleansing of the spirit, mind and body. The water is also supposed to wash away bad luck - so consider yourself blessed if you get drenched! Happily, Songkran falls during the hottest time of the year and the water is a welcome relief.
Getting to Thailand is fairly convenient and easy, with Bangkok being the primary international airport receiving hundreds of flights from all over the world, including other parts of Asia, Europe and North America.
Read more on where to stay and things to do in Thailand.

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