The hearts of all Thais are blessed and looking forward to Wednesday when the five-day Songkran holiday begins. It will be the first time in three years for us to celebrate the traditional New Year known for joyous water splashing at the hottest time of the year.
But the festivities this year will fall short of what they were before Covid-19 emerged. Traditional celebrations such as pouring water on Buddhist statues or over the hands of the elderly will be allowed. People will also be able to splash each other in managed environments that are considered Covid-free. Nonetheless, it's a welcome opportunity to go home to visit relatives or embark on a trip in Thailand or abroad.
The celebrations come at time when most Southeast Asian economies are gradually removing travel restrictions. Malaysia this month fully reopened to foreign tourists after two years as it transitions to treating Covid as endemic.
