Wet looks to keep you cool this Songkran, from hotel pool parties to Khao San Road
Forget the dok chaba shirts, here’s how to survive Songkran in style, with men’s and women’s shopping picks that don't fear a bit of water.
10 years ago
Bangkok's best Songkran parties 2014
Silom
Normally, the splashing in Silom starts around 2-3pm, so things aren’t too hot to handle. The area from Narathiwat-Ratchanakarin intersection up to Saladaeng intersection will likely be packed, with tunes pumping out of Patpong, Thaniya Plaza and Silom Soi 2. The soundtrack this year? Aside from Soi 2’s remixes, make sure you can remember how to dance to Ying Lee’s “Kor Jai Ter Leak Ber Toe” and practice your moves for Bai-Toey’s latest single “Ya Mano.”
Girls’ essentials:Whether you’ve decided to just drive past to check out the crowd or jump out for a splash, your best bet is to match some neon or metallic items with an oversized white shirt and a pair of shorts. To complete the look, don’t worry too much about eye shadow, but go for a natural glow achieved through waterproof foundation and mascara.
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Boys’ essentials:Leave your white T-shirt and shorts at home and go with a printed tank top. Don’t forget your waterproof mirror-less camera to snap a few shots during the water wars.
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RCA
This street is still one of the main hotspots for a night splash—so good, they also throw extra parties either side of Songkran (Apr 11-15). The top spot is still Route 66, with its 5-nights-5-parties. For something a little alternative, there’s always Cosmic and Ibiza, too.
Girls’ essentials:Crop-tops are hot this season with some brands also launching swimsuits that can be worn as crop-tops, too. Match it with a high-waisted bottom and sprinkle a little glitter on your face for an enchanted night look.
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Boys’ essentials:A black vest or T-shirt and baggy pants is essential if you’re heading to RCA. Get some good hair wax, too, to ensure your locks survive the Splahing.
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Khaosan
A longtime favorite Songkran spot for both day and night is Khaosan Road, while you can also wander over to Banglamphu, Rambutri and Phra Athit Road, which aren't quite as packed. Especially along Phra Athit, be ready to get smashed by giant buckets of water thrown from pickup trucks.
Girls’ essentials:Flower prints have never been hotter, but steer clear of the usual big dok chaba (Chinese rose). Get some small pastel daisies printed either on your top or bottom (we recommend the latter) for an updated version Songkran look.
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Boys’ essentials:Floral prints are even hotter in men’s fashion—match it with normal shorts and shades for that casual but stylish look.
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Hotel Pool Party
If you just want to chill by the pool with a drink and watch the sunset, there are plenty of options at the city’s many hotel pool bars like W Hotel and The Continent
Girls’ essentials:Your chance to wear your Panama hat, sunglasses and beautiful sandals without fear that they’ll be ruined.
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Boys’ essentials:Same goes for the guys, a hotel pool party doesn’t have to be all action. Kick back by the pool and soak up the summer vibes.
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gCircuit
Asia’s biggest gay party gCircuit also returns this Songkran for the 8th edition from Apr 11-13 at CentralWorld Convention Center under the theme Supersized Songkran.
Girls’ essentials:Just ‘cos it’s a gay party doesn’t mean girls aren't allowed. Have some fun with your friends with matte red lips and an outrageously sexy costume.
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Boys’ essentials:Top? Don’t bother. Keep it minimal with a colorful swimsuit and some fancy accessories. Sunglasses are a must, too, at the pool party and at night.
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Essentials
Playhound and Greyhound. 3/F Siam Centre, Rama 1 Rd., BTS Siam.
Longchamp, Shu Uemura, Laura Mercier, Maybelline, Kiehl's and Bobbi Brown. M/F Siam Paragon, Rama 1 Rd. 02-690-1000. BTS Siam.
DA+PP, Bershka, Zara, Mango and Pull & Bear. 2/F, CentralWorld, Ratchadamri Rd., 02-743-7400. BTS Siam/Chidlom.
Uniqlo. 3/F, CentralWorld, Ratchadamri Rd., 02-743-7400. BTS Siam/Chidlom.
Nikon, Samsung and Fuji. 4/F Siam Paragon, Rama 1 Rd. 02-690-1000. BTS Siam.
H&M, Giogio Armani. 1/F Siam Paragon, Rama 1 Rd. 02-690-1000. BTS Siam.
Syoss. available at Watson, 2/F, Siam Paragon. Rama 1 Rd. 02-690-1000. BTS Siam.
GAS. 2/F Central Chidlom, Ploenchit Rd., 02-793-7000.
Herchel Supply Co. 5/F, CentralWorld, Ratchadamri Rd., 02-743-7400. BTS Siam/Chidlom.
Topshop, Kate Spade and Accessorizes. G/F CentralWorld, Ratchadamri Rd.
02-613-1660. BTS Siam/Chidlom
Lomography. Order online at www.lomography.co.th
DAPPER. 2/F Siam Centre, Rama 1 Rd., BTS Siam.
Timo. 2/F Siam Paragon. Rama 1 Rd. 02-690-1000. BTS Siam.
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