Frommer's Favorite Experiences

Celebrating Songkran: April 13 marks the first day of Songkran, the Thai New Year. Traditionally, Thais wash the Buddha images in local temples with water and then sprinkle water on the hands of their elders as a show of filial piety. In recent years, however, Songkran has escalated into a nationwide water fight, and Khao San Road, the backpacker street in Bangkok, is the epicenter of water spraying, talc throwing, and good times. It is a riot, but stay inside unless you don't mind being wet to the bone, caked with chunks of powder, and aching from laughter.

Getting off the "Track": Whether just a day trip out of busy Bangkok or a ride inland from the beach resort of your choice, Thailand is a great place to explore the back of beyond and learn a little something about slow living and hospitality. In areas like the Mae Hong Son Loop northwest of Chiang Mai, the Golden Triangle near Chiang Rai, or more out-of-the-way locations like Isan, the large northeastern territory near Laos offers adventures around every corner. Narrow roads, hairpin turns, sweltering heat, and unpredictable drivers make for lots of excitement. Jungle terrain supporting little-visited villages, paddy-carpeted valleys dotted with quaint wooden farmhouses, rolling hills green with lush foliage and jutting limestone cliffs are what attract so many. Adventure awaits.

Making Merit: While many Thai people will "make merit" on a daily basis, it is possible for visitors to participate in this age-old tradition as well. This custom -- gestures that secure a better life here and hereafter -- can be performed in any number of ways: offer pails filled with necessary daily objects like soaps, food, robes, and a small donation to the abbot of a monastery; contribute to a monk's morning meal with offerings of food; or purchase a caged bird at one of the temple complexes and set it free (a great photo op). It is best to consult a Thai person about formalities and customs beforehand in order to understand complex matters of etiquette. And remember, always thank the receiving monk -- he will never thank you. He never begs; only offers you the opportunity to better your life.

Petting an Elephant: Thailand's gentle giants never fail to amaze, and it isn't uncommon to see elephants padding along city streets. If these huge creatures are at first daunting, time spent around them proves their intelligence, grace, and majesty -- the very symbols of the nation.

Partying at Patong Beach: The busiest beachside strip on Phuket, Patong is a great place for shopping, dining, and the nightlife. Though a bit seedy along some side streets, it is a lot of fun and kicks late every night. The beach isn't the greatest, but it is a good area to yip it up at night.

Shopping 'till You Drop: It is a full-contact sport in Thailand and there are a variety of venues where you can pick up anything from fine local crafts, weaving, and jewelry, to top brand-name items (or copies thereof). The busy markets are certainly the most atmospheric: Chatuchak, the weekend market, and Suan Lum, the night market in Bangkok, the busy Night Bazaar in Chiang Mai, and the many small markets in every small town. Thai towns of any size all support large retail outlets of varying quality, from small discount department stores to luxury malls like the Emporium or Gaysorn Plaza in Bangkok. Bangkok's crazy Mah Boon Krong (MBK) Shopping Center or Siam Square is as reflective of current Thai culture as any temple or tour site, and a visit is a way to participate in Thai pop culture anthropologist-style and pick up affordable gifts for the folks back home.

Discovering Spirit Houses: Take the time to notice one of these elaborate creations. Like dollhouse-size dainty shrines, some of them quite elaborate, spirit houses are usually set atop an eye-level post and can be seen in nearly every yard or business entry. They are meant to house spirits -- family spirits or spirits of former dwellers -- and every morning or on auspicious days householders will place offerings of flowers, drinks, and food to care for the spirits and keep them happy. The spirit house is erected shortly after a new occupant enters a home.

Surrendering to Fate: In Thailand, fate works in strange ways -- a broken down bus, nobody who speaks English for miles, help in the form of a kind stranger on a motorbike and a friend for life. When faced with big changes on the road (and there are sure to be some), it can either ruin your day or actually make your whole experience. Repeat this phrase often: mai pen rai ("never mind"), and you will enjoy Thailand all the more.

Snorkeling just about anywhere: With huge living reefs and other odd creatures close to the water's surface, snorkeling in both the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand opens up under-the-sea wonders to anybody who can swim (or even just float). Check out Phuket's bays, Ko Phi Phi, areas around Krabi, Koh Samui, and islands along the eastern seaboard.