So I’m a lucky girl in that I get to celebrate 2 New Years this year. I must say, I do prefer it Thai style. The Thai celebrate their new year with water festivals, I’m guessing driven by the hot April temperatures, originated by people honoring their elders by spraying water on them and now (d)evolved into massive water gun/bucket fights. I had an inkling of what I was in for when my daily stop at 7-11 to buy a big water the day before Songkran revealed employees preparing by plastic-wrapping cash registers & electronic screens. It wasn’t even safe inside. That & the fact that everyone in town was selling massive water guns. Since I’d taken the plunge & signed up for my advanced diving course w the best (& coolest) dive shop on the island, I was graciously included in their Songkran festivities which involved “meeting at 10am at the beach wearing little more than a bikini with money for beers in a plastic bag & nothing more”. I was told “don’t even think about bringing your phone” so unfortunately, there’s no pictures documenting the mayhem so you’re going to have to take my word for it. Not long after it started, I was tossed into the pool by my advanced dive instructor, whom I just met (a dreamy tall Aussie). Every single person seemed armed & ready to take down innocent bystanders w a few pumps of their water gun or bucket tosses. I waited an hour & adopted an abandoned water gun for the day. It definitely brings out the kid in you. This is my kinda New Years celebration.