SINGAPORE – Preferred Hotels & Resorts, the world’s largest independent hotel brand, welcomes travelers to enjoy a splashing good time in Thailand during the annual Songkran celebrations this spring by presenting a variety of bed-and-breakfast offers from its member hotels that put guests at the center of the action.
Songkran (also known as Thai New Year) is the largest water festival in the region – and one of the most spectacular. Taking place in 2016 from 13 to 15 April, this annual affair originated from a traditional Thai custom where family members and the younger generation poured scented water into the hands of elders to pay their respects during the New Year. Scented water was also sprinkled on people to symbolize the washing away of bad luck and bringing in good fortune for the year ahead. Today, these showers of blessings have extended to the streets where visitors and locals alike are splashed with water as they take in the celebratory atmosphere.
Featured hotels within the Preferred Hotels & Resorts portfolio offering Songkran deals that include Best Available Rates with breakfast for two persons:
The Siam, a beautiful art deco-inspired boutique luxury hotel, is located alongside the iconic Chao Praya River in the historic Dusit district, home to Bangkok’s must-see cultural sights. The hotel’s complimentary boat shuttle is an ideal way for guests to participate in Songkran activities along the riverfront and also access a variety of attractions and landmarks including bustling night markets and famous “wats” or temples that dot the riverside. Rates from US$412 per night.
The Landmark Bangkok is centrally located at the heart of the main business, shopping and entertainment districts of Bangkok along Sukhumvit Road. With a Skytrain station at the hotel’s doorstep, it is the perfect homebase for guests who wish to join in the watery street parties at Silom Road and Khao San Road, just a few train stations away. Rates from US$120 per night.
Chiang Mai is home to the largest Songkran water festival parades in the country, inviting travelers to take in the colorful spectacle of statues being carried from local temples and paraded along the streets. Dhara Dhevi Chiang Mai offers one of the best luxury accommodations in the city, presenting the ultimate experience of northern Thailand’s tropical countryside, rich with culture and tradition. As part of the the resort’s Songkran celebrations, guests are invited to partake in the traditional rite of pouring water on a Buddha image to wish for happiness in the Thai new year at the resort’s Thai restaurant, Le Grand Lanna, Kad Dhara Shopping Village Craft Village, and Prayer Hall. Rates from US$622 per night.
For travelers who want to get away from the city, Phuket and Ko Samui offer Songkran festivities not only along the streets but also on the sand.
Andara Resort & Villas is a beautiful boutique hotel nestled amidst lush tropical surroundings overlooking the Andaman Sea on the pristine west coast of Phuket’s Kamala Beach. Boasting breathtaking sea views, private infinity pools, and a range of luxurious accommodation options from beautifully appointed suites to spacious villas, this resort is the perfect choice for travelers who want to indulge in an exclusive upscale respite after a long day soaking in the fun at the Phuket Songkran Festival at nearby Patong Beach. Rates from US$833 per night.
Songkran in Ko Samui takes place at Chaweng Beach where festivities include locals and tourists alike lining the nearby streets to fire water canons at passing vehicles and each other. The Tongsai Bay is a serene eco-resort getaway for nature lovers and “green” movement advocates. The resort is surrounded by lush tropical gardens and located along a private beach with breathtaking ocean views from each guestroom’s private outdoor tub and terrace. Rates from US$275 per night.
Travelers can enjoy additional benefits by enrolling in the iPrefer guest loyalty program, which extends points redeemable for free nights and other expenditures, elite status, and special benefits such as complimentary Internet upon every eligible stay at more than 600 participating properties worldwide.
