Countdown - 20 days

Today's song is: If I Could Turn Back Time  .. Cher

We are rapidly approaching Songkran and I am ambivalent (always try to introduce a new word every post) about my participation. For the past 3 years I have jumped in with both feet over the main 3 days of the water festival. Last year saw a huge increase in the use of ice in the water that is often shot, spilled, or thrown over the participants. The result last year is I caught the worst cold of the decade that took 3 weeks to disappear. However, the spectacle of Songkran is not something to miss and Soi 22 (my street) and soi Cowboy (within a 10 minute walk) are great fun!

Last year's Songkran festival was the most deadly in 6 years.

Songkran 2007: 361 deaths, 4,805 injuries and 4,274 accidents

Songkran 2008: 368 deaths, 4,801 injuries and 4,243 accidents

Songkran 2009: 373 deaths, 4,332 injuries and 3,977 accidents

Songkran 2010: 361 deaths, 3,802 injuries and 3,516 accidents

Songkran 2011: 271 deaths, 3,476 injuries and 3,215 accidents

Songkran 2012: 320 deaths, 3,320 injuries and 3,129 accidents

Songkran 2013: 321 deaths, 3,040 injuries and 2,828 accidents

Songkran 2014: 322 deaths, 3,225 injuries and 2,992 accidents

Songkran 2015: 364 deaths, 3,559 injuries and 3,373 accidents

In North America new Year's is a one night party whereas in Thailand it is 5 days of drunken mayhem but it has a price. Every year the government asks for restraint but once underway, Songkran takes on a life of its own.

I strongly suggest you avoid motorbikes and the back of pickup trucks as those activities are a recipe for disaster. Many tourists are also unaware that everyone is a target and often leave the lobby of their hotel and do not get 100 feet before being soaked. I have seen some fights breakout but ignorance of a countries customs is no excuse for a farang to engage in violence. One should always remember if you get in an altercation with a Thai you will quickly discover they have a 'fight me, fight my gang mentality' and the police will have little sympathy for you.

However, you simply must become part of Songkran at some point in your life. It's an awesome party!

Time for some Songkran pics:

Were you able to spot the 2 ladyboys?

TTYL