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2 More Thoughts Regarding Songkran –

This is a sad part of Songkran. People showing really poor judgment get out in the already challenging traffic here while intoxicated, causing trouble for everyone, injuries, and even fatalities. The last number I saw was that 154 people lost their lives.

Drunk driving accounted for 3,726 cases recorded during the 2026 Songkran Festival, with Chiang Mai reporting the highest number, according to Thailand’s Department of Probation.

As of April 16, 2026, Chiang Mai has reported among the highest, if not the top, number of drunk driving cases in Thailand during the 7-day Songkran “dangerous days” campaign. While overall national accident rates decreased, high-speed and intoxicated driving remain the primary causes of fatalities in Chiang Mai. 

• 2026 Summary: Chiang Mai topped the national list for drunk driving cases during the 2026 Songkran Festival.
• Safety Record: Despite the high incidence of drunk driving, the province generally remains among the top provinces for both total accidents and fatalities, alongside Bangkok.
• Key Risks: The highest numbers of injuries and fatalities are usually reported among individuals aged 20–39, particularly on local, rural roads.

• • Main Causes: Speeding and drinking, particularly while riding motorcycles, are the leading causes of death in Chiang Mai and nationwide. 

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BUT HERE IS A BEAUTIFUL THING –

Daily Sabah

The Songkran water bowl tradition for elderly, known as Rod Nam Dam Hua, is a deeply meaningful ceremony where younger generations gently pour scented water over the palms of elders’ hands to show respect, ask for blessings, and seek forgiveness. Held on April 15th, it signifies washing away misfortune and welcoming prosperity. 

Key Aspects of the Tradition:

• The Ritual: Participants use small bowls containing water mixed with fragrant flowers (like jasmine) and sometimes traditional perfume (Nam Ob).
• Action: Younger people bow and pour the water over the palms of the elderly, often accompanied by offering garlands or new clothes.
• Significance: It symbolizes cleansing, gratitude, and filial piety. It is a time for family reconciliation and honor.
• Blessings: Elders, in turn, provide words of wisdom, advice, and blessings for the coming new year.
• Modern Adaptation: While historically it involved washing hair and feet, it is now commonly done on the hands, often held at family gatherings, local communities, or the La Green Hotel & Residence and other community events to ensure the tradition continues, as seen in this YouTube video. 

This ceremony is considered the “true” heart of the Songkran festival, setting it apart from the modern, chaotic water fights. 

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One additional reason I’m talking about this beautiful tradition is that the nursing home sent us pictures of my husband, Harvey, receiving this gift from the staff! They had gotten him up in a wheelchair (it takes 3 now to do this) and brought him to a common room. He was wearing a different real flower necklace and had the bowl in his lap. The staff was on the floor around him, pouring the scented water over his hands. He looked quite calm and almost touched in a couple of the photos. I can’t say enough about the loving and caring atmosphere here. Harvey is receiving the best of care and SO MUCH MORE from these wonderful people. Happy Songkran!!!!

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Things have not returned to normal for us yet. Khun Nong, our housekeeper, is away for an extended vacation. Her sister, Khun Bpawm, will clean for us until Khun Nong returns. That starts today. Brian’s usual day is Tuesday and mine Friday. Until Khun Nong returns, both of our places will be cleaned today. Brian will come to my place to work while I get my massage this morning, and then we will get out of the way, but earlier than usual, and go to the cafe this afternoon so my place can be cleaned. Our food is still different, but we ate another Chinese dish last night and an all meat breakfast this morning.

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