💦 Songkran Is Coming: Don't Be That Tourist

Hey Phuket Fans!

Songkran’s here — and while the water fights are about to get wild, your inbox is staying dry (but packed with good stuff). Whether you're planning your splashy escape or already on the island dodging super-soakers, this week’s newsletter is your ultimate survival guide.

We’re diving into the real travel tips they don’t tell you, the events you actually want to go to, and some serious “don’t-get-scammed” advice to keep your holiday smooth, fun, and drama-free.

This Week’s Essentials:

💦 Songkran in Phuket — Where to Go, What to Avoid, and How to Not Get Ripped Off
🚌 From Airport to Hotel — Budget Moves vs. Tourist Traps
🛏️ Avoid the Room-Not-Available Scam — Yes, it’s still happening
🍤 Where to Eat & Not Regret It Later — Cheap Thai, Seafood Secrets & Bill Surprises
💆‍♀️ Massage 101 — What’s Fair, What’s Sketchy
🎉 Event Rundown — Foam parties, beach vibes, and Diplo on deck

Let’s jump in — before you jump into a foam cannon with no plan and a wet phone.

SONGKRAN TRAVEL TIPS

Heading to Phuket for Songkran?

Read This Before You Waste Time or Money.

“How do I get from the airport without getting ripped off?”
“Is Patong overrated?”
“What’s a decent massage price?”
“Do I really need to bargain for everything?”

Yep — all real questions.
I had the same ones before I landed in Phuket.
Let’s break down the good, the bad, and what no one tells you until it’s too late.

Airport to Hotel – Don’t Screw This Up

You land. You’re tired. You just want to get to your hotel.
This is when most people overpay.

Here’s what actually works:

• Smart Bus: From 8AM to 11:30PM. Runs every hour. 100 baht.
  Clean, has Wi-Fi. Takes 1.5–2 hours (blame traffic).

• Day Pass: 300 baht, hop on/off all day. Great if you're exploring multiple spots.

• Taxi: 1,200–1,500 baht. Direct but pricey.

• Avoid Minibuses: 150–200 baht sounds cheap… until you waste 2 hours stopping at every “tourist trap” they want to sell you.

TL;DR – Take the smart bus or Grab if you value your time and budget.

Where to Stay Without Getting Burned

You think you booked a sweet room? Think again.

What actually happens:

• You show up.

• Your room’s “not available.”

• They hand you a downgrade (or upsell you to something “available”).

How to stop this:

• Take photos of your booking confirmation.

• Write down the room type, view, and amenities.

• When you check in, match it up.

• If it’s not right? Call it out. Calmly but firmly.

Tours – Everyone’s Selling Them, Most Overcharge

You’ll see tour booths every 10 steps.
Don’t book from your hotel — they tack on commission.

Do this instead:

• Walk around from your hotel or the beach road. Same tours, better prices.

• In high season: 2,000–3,000 baht.

• In low season: 1,200–1,500 baht.

• Always ask: Does the price include national park fees (e.g. Phi Phi Island)? Don’t assume.

How to Get Around Phuket Without Bleeding Cash

Transport options ranked:

• Grab App – Safe, transparent, no drama.

• Tuk Tuks – Fixed price, no meters.
  A 3-minute ride at night? 200–400 baht. Total scam.

• Motorbike Taxi – 100–200 baht. Negotiate.

• Rent a Motorbike – Cheap. But:

  • Wear a helmet.

  • Have a valid license.

  • Inspect the bike and take photos so they don’t charge you for “scratches” you didn’t make.

Massage: What’s Normal, What’s Not

You’re in Phuket. You want a massage. You’re not alone.

• Patong = overpriced and hit-or-miss.

• Go 2-3 streets away from the main strip for better value.

• Hotel spas = pricey but solid quality.

• Fair price: 250–500 baht.
  If it’s more than that... it’s probably more than a massage (if you know what I mean).

Where to Eat Without Regret

• Thai food is dirt cheap and everywhere.

• Seafood in Patong? Overpriced.

  • Go to Kata or Karon or further down south–Rawai. Fresh seafood, better rates.

• Western food = a bit more pricey. If you want burgers and pizza, prepare to pay more.

• Watch out for service charges snuck in on the bill.

Shopping – Don’t Buy at the First Place You See

Most tourist shops are full of overpriced stuff. Bargaining only gets you so far.

Go here instead:

• Jungceylon mall

• Central Festival (right across from Jungceylon)

Legit promotions, original brands, no headache.

Money Exchange – Don’t Sweat It

Exchange rates are pretty solid everywhere.
Just check 2–3 booths — they’re all about the same.
Some stay open late, even if you’re out partying.

Beach Activities – Fun, but Risky if You’re Not Smart

• Jet ski, parasailing, banana boat – all there.

• But YOU are the only one watching your safety.

• Always ask for the price and safety briefing.

• Negotiate before you sign up.
  They’ll always quote high.

Also — red flag:
If the beach has signs saying “Don’t Swim” – don’t swim.
People ignore it, get hurt. Don’t be that tourist.

That’s it. Phuket is amazing, but only if you play it smart.

You don’t need to spend more.
You don’t need to get scammed.
And you can have a great trip without the stress.

Low season is chill, cheaper, and just as beautiful.

Hope this helps you skip the tourist traps and enjoy the real Phuket.
Catch you next time.

HEADLINES

SONGKRAN 2025: THAILAND GEARS UP FOR MAJOR TOURIST INFLUX

BANGKOK — The Songkran festival, which has already begun in some areas of Thailand and will reach its highlight this week, faces a somewhat challenging atmosphere following the earthquake in Myanmar that sent tremors through Thailand and caused the collapse of a State Audit Office building under construction in Bangkok, resulting in a hundred worker deaths and disappearances.... —Continue Reading Here

Southeast Asia's second largest economy expects to earn $3.8B from Songkran

Thailand, the second largest economy in Southeast Asia, has expressed its confidence that tourism and spending during the upcoming Songkran festival will remain upbeat.

Deputy government spokesman Anukul Prueksanusak has cited findings from a recent consumer behavior survey conducted by the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce, which said spending during Songkran is projected to increase by 4.5% to 134 billion THB (US$3.8 billion), up from last year's 129 billion THB. —Continue Reading Here

Transport Ministry tackles high airfare during Songkran travel rush

The upcoming Songkran holiday from April 11–17, 2025, is expected to spark a nationwide travel surge as Thais journey to celebrate at various destinations. Air travel remains a popular and convenient option during this festive period.

To ensure smooth and safe travel, the Ministry of Transport has ramped up preparations to facilitate and safeguard public transportation during the holiday. The aim is to guarantee convenience, safety throughout all routes, and reasonable fares for travelers. —Continue Reading Here

BUSINESS HIGHLIGHT

BARADA

Ever found yourself craving chocolate that doesn't just taste good but also tells a story?

Let me introduce you to Barada Chocolate Factory in Rawai, Phuket—a place where indulgence meets purpose.​

Why Barada Stands Out:

• Farm-to-Bar Excellence: They source their cacao directly from family-run farms in Chiang Mai and Loei, Thailand. This not only ensures top-notch quality but also supports local communities. ​

• Craftsmanship: Each chocolate bar is handcrafted daily in small batches, ensuring freshness and a rich, velvety texture. ​

• Sustainability: Barada is committed to eco-friendly practices, from ethical sourcing to sustainable packaging. ​

Experience It Yourself:

• Interactive Workshops: Dive into the art of chocolate-making by crafting your own personalized bar. Choose from a variety of premium ingredients and learn from passionate chocolatiers.

• Tasting Sessions: Relax in their cozy venue and savor a cup of rich hot chocolate paired with freshly baked treats. ​

A Sweet Escape in Phuket:

Whether you're a chocolate connoisseur or just someone with a sweet tooth, Barada offers an experience that's both delightful and meaningful. It's not just about tasting chocolate; it's about understanding its journey from bean to bar and appreciating the love infused in every bite.​

Next time you're in Phuket, make sure to drop by Barada Chocolate Factory. Trust me, it's an experience you won't forget.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Phuket Songkran 2025, Where to Go?

Event Details: Songkran Carnival Phuket – the grandest Songkran festival at Central Phuket!
🗓 Date: April 11–14, 2025
⏰ Time: 6:00 pm – 11:30 pm
📍 Location: Central Phuket, 74-75 Wichitsongkram Road, Phuket 83000
🎟 Price: From THB 200

Event Details: Songkran Party at Tiger Muay Thai – foam, DJs, food & water fights!
🗓 Date: April 12, 2025
⏰ Time: 10:00 am – 11:00 pm
📍 Location: Tiger Muay Thai, Soi Tad-ied, Chalong, Phuket
🎟 Price: Free Entry

Event Details: Endless Summer Beach Club Songkran – beachside vibes & foam cannons!
🗓 Date: April 12–15, 2025
⏰ Time: 11:00 am – 11:00 pm
📍 Location: Endless Summer Phuket, Yaowarat Road, Phuket
🎟 Price: Free Entry

Event Details: Songkran Pool Party at Patong Bay Hill – DJs, games & drink deals!
🗓 Date: April 12, 2025
⏰ Time: 12:00 pm – 6:00 pm
📍 Location: Patong Bay Hill, Hasib Pee Road, Patong, Phuket
🎟 Price: Free Entry

Event Details: Diplo Live at Café Del Mar – global DJ takes the Songkran stage!
🗓 Date: April 12, 2025
⏰ Time: 2:00 pm – 11:30 pm
📍 Location: Café del Mar Phuket, Kamala Beach, Phuket
🎟 Price: THB 900

Event Details: 11th Songkran No-Alcohol Festival – cultural vibes & live music!
🗓 Date: April 13, 2025
⏰ Time: 4:00 pm – 10:00 pm
📍 Location: Limelight Avenue, Dibuk Road, Phuket
🎟 Price: Free Entry

Event Details: The Marina Phuket Market – Thai culture, food & fun by the marina!
🗓 Date: April 11–13, 2025
⏰ Time: 4:00 pm – 9:00 pm
📍 Location: Phuket Yacht Haven, Thalang, Phuket
🎟 Price: Free Entry

Event Details: Wet & Wild Foam Party at KUDO – fire shows, DJs & wild energy!
🗓 Date: April 13, 2025
⏰ Time: 11:00 am – 5:00 pm
📍 Location: KUDO Beach Club, Patong Beach, Phuket
🎟 Price: Free Entry

Event Details: Songkran Pool Party at Amari Phuket – DJ, games & street food!
🗓 Date: April 13, 2025
⏰ Time: 11:00 am – 5:00 pm
📍 Location: Amari Phuket, Patong Beach, Phuket
🎟 Price: Free Entry

Event Details: Andara Resort Songkran Bash – foam, boxing, food & parades!
🗓 Date: April 13, 2025
⏰ Time: 11:00 am – 4:00 pm
📍 Location: Andara Resort & Villas, Kamala Beach, Phuket
🎟 Price: Free Entry

Catch You Later, Water Warriors!

Whether you're braving the splash zones in Patong or chilling beachside with a cold coconut in Rawai, remember — smart travelers have way more fun (and spend less doing it).

If you survived a tuk tuk scam, found an epic pad Thai joint, or danced next to Diplo in a foam pit — we want to hear about it. Your tips, fails, and favorite finds help everyone level up their Phuket game.

Until next time, stay sharp, stay dry (when you can), and keep chasing that island magic.

With sun and sarcasm,
The Phuket Community Crew