Songkran Water Festival, Thailand
A nation takes to the streets with squirt guns, super-soakers, buckets and hoses in a no-holds-barred water fight. It sounds like a child’s fantasy, but it’s a description of Songkran, the Thai New Year celebration, from April 13 to April 15. The tradition takes place because Buddhists consider this time of year a period of cleansing and renewal, symbolized by water. But the country-wide water festival is also a way to get soaked and cool off during peak hot season. One way to stay dry: Centara Hotels & Resorts is offering a package that includes a Songkran survival kit (two water shooters and plastic waterproof covers for valuables) and one-night stay from 2,907 baht, $101, for two people.