Thailand-
The following is our weekly feature in which we take a look at the top developing stories and things to follow over the next week. We are focusing on what is happening for the first week of March 2022, ending March 5th, 2022.
As we publish dozens of stories a week, this allows our readers to get a quick glimpse of the most important stories taking place in Thailand and Pattaya and to monitor and follow for the week ahead, as chosen by our editorial team. Let’s get right into it with the biggest news of the week and what important stories to follow and look for this week that are likely to see further developments. This week we really only have one major story to watch:
1. Thai Covid Center to meet to discuss Songkran in April
If you are expecting wild water fights, giant concerts, street parties, packed clubs and bars, and colorful festivals to line the streets you are likely to be disappointed.
The Thai National Security Council which works with the Thai Covid center plans to meet next week to outline guidelines and potential restrictions for Songkran 2022. Songkran, also known as the water festival and the Thai New Year, is Thailands biggest holiday and when many Thais traditionally go home to see family and friends, like Christmas in the West or Chinese New Year in China. It’s also, before covid, known for its parties, water fights, concerts, festivals, and other gatherings to celebrate the New Year.
As Thailand just hit record highs for Covid-19 cases and deaths have been rising in the country Thai government officials have made it clear that although lockdowns and overall cancelations are off the table restrictions on events and large gatherings are still very much on.
Songkran has been essentially canceled for the past two years due to Covid-19, with only travel allowed last year but all “fun events” like parties and concerts and Thailands famous (but controversial) water fights for the Thai New Year banned. The last two year bars were closed during Songkran and although they are still legally closed now many have converted to temporary restaurants. In 2020 there was a total alcohol sales ban during Songkran to discourage gatherings.
According to the National Security Council there will be no travel restrictions and no lockdowns and people will be allowed to travel home to see family and friends for the Thai New Year. Small religious and ceremonial events are likely to be allowed.
Unfortunately for the tourism industry (but in a decision that will likely please many of our readers who are not fans of Songkran, especially the water) the parties and wild water fights will likely need to wait for yet another year, according to the National Security Council.
The meeting to discuss Songkran is expected sometime next week.
