Latest news with #Songkran
Metro
9 hours ago
- Metro
I went to the world's wettest Pride parade where everyone gets absolutely soaked
I'm sitting in the police station soaking wet, still clutching my super-soaker as I drip on the tiles and wait for the officer to finish typing up my report. Not exactly how I'd expected my first day in Bangkok to end. I'd come to Thailand's capital for Songkran, the traditional Thai New Year festival that turns the streets of the city into a giant water fight every April. I'd hoped I might dry off on the ride over, but sitting on the back of the motorbike only made me a moving target. That's the thing about Songkran, nobody is off limits. Police officers, Buddhist monks, the elderly and small children – I'd seen them all targeted with rapid-firing squirt guns and freezing buckets of water. It seems that there really are no exceptions. If you step onto the street, you're consenting to getting wet. That's why I'd put all my things into a waterproof bag. Squirting strangers as I ducked and dodged and sought out my next victim, I let my guard down only to realise I'd just become a victim myself. Feeling my bag snag on something, I turn to find the pockets zipped wide open – my second passport, money and credit cards all stolen. I glance around the crowd of saturated revellers, but whoever had taken them had already disappeared. I try my best not to let it dampen my spirits – the money was minimal, my bank cards were immediately cancelled, and my primary passport was tucked away dry in the hotel safe. But then I realised they'd taken something infinitely more valuable. With thousands of members from all over the world, our vibrant LGBTQ+ WhatsApp channel is a hub for all the latest news and important issues that face the LGBTQ+ community. Simply click on this link, select 'Join Chat' and you're in! Don't forget to turn on notifications! My second passport had my US visa in it – my only ticket to entering the United States. This may not seem like all that big of a deal, but with a new visa likely taking months, it was about to unravel all my carefully laid plans. This year, I'm on a journey to experience Pride all over the world, and having already booked flights to San Francisco – the birthplace of Pride – and World Pride in Washington DC, I realised it was now unlikely I'd be able to go to either. But this year is also what brought me here to Thailand. On the second day of the festivities, the LGBT+ community come together to get soaked in the Songkran Pride Parade. Being robbed the night before didn't exactly fill me with joy, but if I've learned anything on this journey, it's that the queer community always know how to lift my spirits. Finding the parade presented a new challenge in itself. While Pride events are usually heavily documented, for this one, I struggled to find any information at all. In fact, I started to question whether it actually existed. I didn't have a start time, or an exact location, all I knew was that it took place somewhere along Silom Road. For the uninitiated, that's the beating heart of Bangkok's queer scene, but during Songkran, it becomes the centre of the party for everyone. It's easy to understand why – the queer community spill out of the bars to party in the streets, pop up stages are erected, and spontaneous K-pop choreography catches like wildfire. The raucous spectacle speaks to Thailand's acceptance of the community. The queer party is t he party, and everyone wants to be involved. Though with such wide-sweeping acceptance, queer spaces can sometimes become diluted, making us once again the minority. That's why a pride parade here is so important, it reclaims the space and tips the balance back towards centering queerness. Despite the lack of information online, it doesn't take long for me to find the festivities. I'd assumed it would be a small parade – given the fact that the streets are already so crowded – but I was pleasantly surprised to find it was quite the opposite. A dozen floats are lined up ready to depart, bubble cannons firing in all directions, rainbow fabric drenched in water and sweat as dancers perform in the sweltering heat. One drag queen has fashioned an outfit out of super-soakers, while another's make-up streams down her face as she performs on the back of a truck. The current Miss LGBT+ Thailand poses for a photo with the winners of the past four years, while Mr Bear Bangkok is soaked by his countless admirers. There's a tremendous sense of camaraderie here, and even though I'm travelling solo, I quickly feel I'm amongst friends. People approach to chat – or to attack me with their water pistols – one boy even pulls me in for a kiss after I turn his white shirt see-through. Calum McSwiggan, author of Eat Gay Love, is a man on a mission. He plans to spend 2025 exploring how the LGBT+ community is celebrated everywhere on Earth: 12 months, 7 continents, 20 Prides. In an exclusive Metro series, Calum will journey from the subzero climes of Antarctica to the jewel-toned streets of Mumbai, telling the story of Pride around the world. Follow his journey on Metro, in print and on our socials to learn how Pride is celebrated around the world. Next up? A different sort of Pride, behind closed doors in Malaysia. It quickly becomes apparent that it isn't just the Thai community that's come to celebrate either. There are queer people from all over. There's a float decked out in Filipino flags, and one in Taiwan's colours too. I meet people from India, Cambodia, Japan, China and Korea. I even meet some who've travelled from Malaysia, where LGBT+ identities are still considered criminal. For some, Songkran is another excuse to party, but for others, it's a form of escapism, one of the only times of year when they can truly be themselves. 'Songkran is one of the most diverse and inclusive events I've ever attended,' Taiwanese personal trainer Patrick Chen tells me as he shields his boyfriend from an incoming bucket of water. 'It's something everyone should experience at least once.' Vietnamese influencer Milton echoes this sentiment. 'It's one of the best memories I've ever made. A place where everyone – regardless of religion, language barrier, or sexual orientation – comes together to have fun and get wet. You don't need alcohol or drugs, you'd be amazed how many friends you can make by just splashing water in their faces.' Talking to people from right across the Asian diaspora helps me realise how important it is to have this space in Asia, where there are comparatively fewer spaces for the LGBT+ community. Songkran also coincides with GCIRCUIT, Asia's largest LGBT+ dance festival, giving extra incentive for people to make the journey to come here. 'We wanted to create a safe space where our community can come together from all over Asia,' Tom Tan, who founded GCIRCUIT with his partner, explains. 'From our earlier years, where sponsors weren't interested in gay events, to now having the endorsement of big brands, it's evident to see the shift in perception of our community. We're proud to keep pushing for that while championing visibility, acceptance and inclusion.' Travel Proud research shows that 63% of LGBT+ travellers prioritise destinations where they can be their authentic selves – and that's exactly what Bangkok delivers. It doesn't just welcome queerness, it soaks it in unashamed joy. There's an enormous emphasis on the trans community here, too. Thailand is the only country in Southeast Asia to have never been colonised, and as a result, its centuries old practise of trans inclusion has been preserved. While legal rights for trans people are still far from perfect, Thailand is now leading the world in areas like gender affirming care, with people travelling from all over the globe for treatment. Still, this visibility comes with a dark side. Kathoey is the term traditionally used for transfeminine people in Thailand, but the use of the westernised ' l a***oy' slur has become commonplace. While some reclaim the word, or brush it off as harmless, for others it's deeply offensive, and only contributes to segregating them further from society. With sex tourism on the rise, trans people are often objectified and fetishised, sometimes with horrifying consequences. In April, trans woman Woranan Pannacha was violently mutilated and murdered by a Chinese tourist after she refused to have sex with him. More Trending That's why it's so important to see such loud and proud trans representation in the parade. Some march for sex worker rights, with signs that read 'my pussy, my business,' while others wave flags and gleefully soak the crowd with water canons. It's still very much a celebration, but there's an undertone of protest too – and that combination, for me, is exactly what Pride everywhere is all about. By the time the parade is over, I've all but forgotten about the robbery from the night before. New friends invite me to dinner, and I remind myself that this is what this journey was always about. It's too early to say whether or not the robbery has completely derailed my plans for the rest of the year, but no matter what happens, I have no regrets in coming here. Songkran Pride is one of the best things I've ever experienced, I'm already planning on coming back. Getting there Thai Airways offers return fares from both London Heathrow and Gatwick starting at £683 return. Things to do (beyond Pride) S20 Festival: Combining sky-high water canons with EDM for the wettest party on Earth. Yunomori Onsen: To celebrate the water festival in a more relaxed environment, this serene bathhouse lives up to Japanese standards and is very popular with the LGBT+ community. Chatuchak Market: For super soakers, waterproof bags, and other Songkran supplies, this is one of the largest weekend markets in the world, and filled with LGBT+ owned stalls. Where to stay Ibis Styles (£) Amara Hotel Capella Bangkok (£££) These hotels all proudly display the Travel Proud badge after completing LGBT+ inclusivity training. Where to eat and drink Little Bao: A concept by LGBT+ chef and advocate May Chow, this eatery brings a modern twist to traditional Chinese comfort food. Luka Sathorn: LGBT+ owned bohemian brunch spot in the heart of Silom. Patpong Night Market: For late night eats, just steps from the queer scene. MORE: I found the perfect European destination to escape the UK heatwave MORE: My unexpected love affair with Switzerland's 'most boring' city MORE: Christian group threatens Westminster Council over 'indoctrinating' pride flags
Korea Herald
12 hours ago
- Business
- Korea Herald
Long Weekend Stays Driving Asian Travelers to Regional Destinations According to Agoda
Hoteliers advised to take advantage of additional public holidays to maximize occupancy and revenue SINGAPORE, June 20, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Asia's diverse and regular stream of public holidays is proving to be a boost to the Asia Pacific (APAC) travel industry as Asian tourists look to maximize their leisure time. Digital travel platform Agoda reveals that Asian travelers looking to travel long weekends are largely opting to stay in the APAC region, highlighting an opportunity for hoteliers to capture rising demand for more frequent, short stays. Agoda saw an 80% month-on-month increase in accommodation searches from Malaysia, Indonesia, and Singapore ahead of the Eid long weekend. Favored destinations were Japan, Thailand, China, South Korea and Taiwan. There was a similar trend during the Songkran long weekend in Thailand - with Hong Kong, Osaka, Shanghai and Seoul proving to be top choices. The recent long weekend in Vietnam, which encompassed Liberation Day and Labor Day, saw Bangkok, Singapore, Tokyo and Seoul being the most searched destinations. "The opportunity for hotels and airlines to secure bookings and incentivize travelers to extend their trips and add ancillary items to boost revenue over long weekends has never been greater," said Andrew Smith, Senior Vice President of Supply, Agoda. "Hotels should ensure they are using the right data to target the hottest consumers from across the Asia Pacific region and ensure that their service offerings are tailored to their regional tastes. For example, catering for visitors with large families by ensuring they are able to access larger and joined rooms for family travel." There are still multiple long weekends to come in the region in 2025 including: By proactively offering packages that cater to long weekend stays and micro-vacations, hotels can capitalize on these trends. Some strategies include: Agoda offers a wide range of options to suit these preferences. With over 5 million holiday properties, more than 130,000 flight routes, and over 300,000 activities, Agoda provides endless possibilities for creating unforgettable travel experiences.
Economic Times
04-06-2025
- General
- Economic Times
What international travellers should know amidst rising Covid-19 cases
Travellers heading abroad this summer are being urged to exercise caution as COVID-19 cases are rising again in parts of Asia. Countries such as Singapore, Thailand, Hong Kong, and India have reported a fresh uptick in infections, driven largely by new Omicron to a report by Conde Nast Traveller, despite the rise in numbers, travel remains unaffected. Flights are operating on schedule and there are no quarantine or testing requirements for domestic or international travellers. However, health authorities continue to monitor the travellers, the advice is to stay cautious, especially if elderly, immunocompromised, or dealing with chronic conditions. Doctors recommend that these groups assess the need for travel and consider postponing non-essential travellers are advised to wear masks in crowded places, carry hand sanitiser, and avoid contact with individuals showing symptoms. Vaccination remains the best defence. While India has not recommended a fresh booster, Singapore and Hong Kong are advising additional doses for high-risk groups. (Join our ETNRI WhatsApp channel for all the latest updates) As per the CN Traveller report, Singapore's Ministry of Health reported over 14,000 cases in the second week of May. In Hong Kong, respiratory sample positivity rates jumped from 1.7% in March to over 11% this month. Thailand has reported localised clusters in Bangkok, Chon Buri, and Samut Prakan, especially following April's Songkran festivities. India has also seen a modest increase, crossing the 1,000-case mark earlier this week. According to the Indian Council of Medical Research, the surge is linked to four fast-spreading sub-variants—JN.1, NB.1.8.1, LF.7, and XFG. The first three are currently the most the World Health Organization has not issued any travel warnings, it has classified NB.1.8 and LF.7 as "Variants Under Monitoring." No country in the region has reinstated border restrictions or Health Ministry confirmed 753 active cases nationwide as of May 26, 2025, with Kerala reporting the highest number at 430 cases. Maharashtra and Delhi follow with 210 and 104 cases, respectively. Officials maintain that most cases remain mild and manageable.
Time of India
04-06-2025
- Health
- Time of India
What international travellers should know amidst rising Covid-19 cases
COVID-19 cases are rising again in parts of Asia, including Singapore, Thailand, Hong Kong, and India, driven by new Omicron sub-variants. While travel remains unaffected with no new restrictions, health authorities advise caution, especially for vulnerable individuals. Wearing masks, sanitizing hands, and vaccination are recommended, as some regions advise additional doses for high-risk groups amidst the increase in cases. Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Also Read: Rising Covid cases push experts to seek sewage surveillance Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Travellers heading abroad this summer are being urged to exercise caution as COVID-19 cases are rising again in parts of Asia . Countries such as Singapore , Thailand, Hong Kong, and India have reported a fresh uptick in infections, driven largely by new Omicron sub-variants According to a report by Conde Nast Traveller, despite the rise in numbers, travel remains unaffected. Flights are operating on schedule and there are no quarantine or testing requirements for domestic or international travellers. However, health authorities continue to monitor the travellers, the advice is to stay cautious, especially if elderly, immunocompromised, or dealing with chronic conditions. Doctors recommend that these groups assess the need for travel and consider postponing non-essential travellers are advised to wear masks in crowded places, carry hand sanitiser, and avoid contact with individuals showing symptoms. Vaccination remains the best defence. While India has not recommended a fresh booster, Singapore and Hong Kong are advising additional doses for high-risk per the CN Traveller report, Singapore's Ministry of Health reported over 14,000 cases in the second week of May. In Hong Kong, respiratory sample positivity rates jumped from 1.7% in March to over 11% this month. Thailand has reported localised clusters in Bangkok, Chon Buri, and Samut Prakan, especially following April's Songkran has also seen a modest increase, crossing the 1,000-case mark earlier this week. According to the Indian Council of Medical Research, the surge is linked to four fast-spreading sub-variants—JN.1, NB.1.8.1, LF.7, and XFG. The first three are currently the most the World Health Organization has not issued any travel warnings, it has classified NB.1.8 and LF.7 as "Variants Under Monitoring." No country in the region has reinstated border restrictions or Health Ministry confirmed 753 active cases nationwide as of May 26, 2025, with Kerala reporting the highest number at 430 cases. Maharashtra and Delhi follow with 210 and 104 cases, respectively. Officials maintain that most cases remain mild and manageable.
The Star
01-06-2025
- Health
- The Star
Watchful of summer Covid-19 resurgence, Korea urges older adults to get vaccinated
Head of the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasures Headquarters, Lee Han-kyung, visits a clinic in Cheongju, North Chungcheong Province, and inspects hospital beds on Monday (May 26, 2025). - Photo: Yonhap SEOUL: The South Korean government is closely monitoring Covid-19 resurgences in regional neighbors including Hong Kong, China and Thailand, amid growing worries that a summer resurgence may hit the country again this year. At a Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasures Headquarters meeting Friday (May 30), Director Lee Han-kyung warned of worsening Covid-19 trends abroad. "In regions close to us — Hong Kong, China and Thailand — Covid-19 infections are rising, and this is a cause for concern," Lee said at the meeting. He urged senior citizens aged 65 and above, as well as residents in high-risk facilities, to get vaccinated, stressing that vaccination is key to preventing severe illness and death. According to government data, recent overseas Covid-19 cases are showing a noticeable uptick. In Hong Kong, confirmed cases for the week of May 11 to 17 totalled 977, exceeding the country's previous summer peak of 796. China's rate of positivity Covid-19 test results is steadily climbing toward last year's peak of 21.1 percent, while in Thailand, more than 65,000 new cases were reported in the three weeks following the Songkran holiday in April. Despite the global trend, the number of new Covid-19 cases in Korea remained at around 100 each week over the past month. Currently, South Korea estimates the number of confirmed cases in select hospitals on a weekly basis. Still, the government is taking a proactive stance in consideration that domestic cases last year surged sharply from late July to mid-August. Weekly confirmed cases jumped from 456 in the fourth week of July to over 1,400 by mid-August in 2023. To mitigate potential risks, health authorities have extended the vaccination period for high-risk groups until June 30, two months beyond the initial April 30 deadline. The Korean Medical Association also issued a public advisory, pointing to the seasonal temperature shifts, increased domestic and international travel and a noticeable drop in personal hygiene practices such as hand-washing. It recommended six precautionary measures: maintaining personal hygiene, wearing masks, prompt response to symptoms, testing for high-risk individuals and recent international travellers, getting vaccinated and improving indoor ventilation. Recalling difficulties caused by last summer's surge, the association emphasised that preventive habits such as hand-washing and mask-wearing remain crucial. - The Korea Herald/ANN
