Where to go to join or avoid the festivities?
Laos: Luang Prabang is the most lively and enjoyable place to partake in Pii Mai, the Laos’ new year. For a more serene and quiet holiday EXO recommends more secluded resorts and destinations such as The Nam Khan in Luang Prabang, Nam Kat Yorla Paa in Oudomxay or La Folie Lodge in Champassak.
Cambodia: ‘In the past, the popular place of Bon Chol Chhnam (Khmer New Year) was always in Siem Reap province. But, it has changed since last year. The government encouraged each province to set up an event for their province to balance the number of [domestic tourists],’ explains Samphoas from EXO Cambodia. As a result, Siem Reap and Wat Phnom (In Phnom Penh) remain popular places for celebrating, while beaches and rural provinces feature lighter but still popular festivities.
Thailand: Bangkok, Chiang Mai and the centres of most towns and islands will be filled with revellers during Songkran. These are some of the most impressive and liveliest celebrations in the region, ideal for those who want to dive right into the festivities! And while celebrations do take place throughout the country, beach resorts and rural resorts will offer a quiet- and dry- haven.
