Songkran starts this weekend and many of us will be travelling up to Bangkok for this wonderful and fun festival. Here are some tips we gathered from seasoned travellers. If you have any tips, add them to the comment section !

#1 Sunscreen

It’s going to be HOT. Make sure you apply sunscreen on all the exposed area to prevent from getting burned especially if you are going to a pool party. Carry it with you and re-apply as often as required. Sunscreens are very common and can be found in many pharmacies located on every corner of Bangkok. Remember: you only want to get wet, not sun-burned.

#2: To wear or not to wear

Flip flops are highly recommended, but make sure they are not slippery on wet grounds. Make sure to pack an extra pair of shoes if you plan to head to club. However, bring shoes you do not mind getting soiled. You will definitely get wet the moment you step out of your hotel. So be mentally prepared. It may be easier to go topless or wear a singlet. If you do, be proud of your own body, and have fun.

#3: Personal Safety

Song Kran is all about having fun and meeting new people. You wouldn’t want to worry about losing your items. Most clubs, circuit parties and pool parties will have a coat check where you can leave your bags. Use a back pack when in crowded places, and carry it in front where you can see it at all times.

Carrying light, only bring the important items, such as wallets, handphone, condoms, lube and a light change of clothes. Seal them in good quality ziplock bags to keep them water proof.

Need to pick up free condoms and lube sachets? Drop by our office.

#4: Eating

Make sure you have a light meal before going to the party, do not go with an empty stomach if you intend to have alcohol. If you are going to have sex, take note what food give you the runs, so you are in your top form.

#5: Accidents and emergencies

Here is a list of hotlines in case of an accident or emergency.

Local hospitals –

• Bumrungrad International
  33 Sukhumvit 3 (Soi Nana Nua), Wattana, Bangkok, 10110 Thailand
  Telephone: +662 667 1000
  https://www.bumrungrad.com/
• Bangkok Hospital
  2 Soi Soonvijai 7, New Petchburi road, Bangkapi, Huay Khwang, Thailand
  Telephone: +66 2 310 3000
  http://www.bangkokhospital.com/
• BNH Hospital 
  9/1, Convent Road, Silom Bangkok 10500, Thailand
  Telephone: (+662) 686-2700
  http://www.BNHhospital.com #sthash.ikxOtQ1E.dpuf

24 hr helpline for illicit drugs related issues and emergencies – 
Telephone: +66(0) 828112686
http://www.na-thailand.org/

If your condom broke or was exposed to HIV –
Go to any emergency centre and ask for P.E.P (What is P.E.P?) or visit the Thai Red cross on Ratchadamri Road.

The Thai Red Cross AIDS Research Centre
104 Ratchadamri Road, Pathumwan,
Bangkok 10330
Tel: +66 2 256 4107 – 09
Fax: +66 2 254 7577
E-mail: aids@trcarc.org
http://www.trcarc.org