In this bonus episode of Travel in 10, Tim and David dive into one of Thailand's most famous and exciting events: the Songkran Festival. Known as the Thai New Year, Songkran is much more than a massive water fight—it’s a cultural celebration filled with rituals, traditions, and joy. David shares his firsthand experience of attending this lively festival and offers practical tips for travelers. Here’s what you can expect:

Episode Highlights:

• The Story Behind Songkran: David recalls how a conversation at a Thai restaurant inspired him to change his travel plans and experience Songkran for the first time. The festival is known as the world's largest water fight, but it’s deeply rooted in Thai tradition as a purification ritual.
• First Impressions: David describes his arrival in Bangkok during Songkran, from the chaotic streets filled with locals armed with water guns to his tuk-tuk ride drenched in water by the time he reached Khao San Road. He shares the surreal experience of the festivities pausing in silent reverence as the Thai King’s motorcade passed by.

What to Expect at Songkran:

• Cultural Significance: Songkran is not just about fun; it’s about purification. David explains how the festival is celebrated in Buddhist temples across the country, with rituals like water pouring, cultural performances, and traditional dances.
• UNESCO Recognition: In 2023, Songkran was declared a UNESCO World Heritage event, extending the celebrations to two weeks across multiple cities in Thailand, including Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket.

When Does Songkran Take Place?

Songkran is celebrated annually from April 13th to 15th, though in many cities, especially Bangkok and Chiang Mai, the festivities often extend for several days beyond the official dates.

Practical Tips for Attending Songkran:

• Plan Ahead: As Songkran is a major holiday in Thailand, David advises booking hotels and domestic travel in advance, as accommodations and flights fill up quickly.
• Best Places to Celebrate: While Songkran is celebrated across Thailand, David recommends experiencing the festival in Bangkok's historic center or Chiang Mai for a more immersive experience.

Whether you’re looking for cultural immersion or just a lot of fun, Songkran is a must-attend event for travellers in Southeast Asia.

Don’t forget to subscribe and join us next week for more travel insights on Travel in 10. You can find more episodes and travel guides at Voyascape.com.

In this episode, Tim and David explore the bustling city of Bangkok, diving into its vibrant culture, unique markets, world-class shopping, and a wide range of hotels. Whether you're looking for a budget stay or luxurious splurge, here’s what you’ll hear:

Episode Highlights:

• Intro to Bangkok: Tim kicks things off by describing Bangkok as a city that’s "big, beautiful, and bursting with energy." Both Tim and David discuss their love for this dynamic city and its blend of chaos and charm. Whether you love or hate it, Bangkok is undeniably one of the most unique cities in the world.

Hotel Recommendations:

• Haheng House: David shares his experience at this affordable boutique hotel located in Bangkok's quiet Dusit district. For just $30-40 a night, you get beautiful rooms in a local, residential neighborhood close to the Chao Phraya River.
• The Siam Hotel: For those seeking luxury, David highlights The Siam, a stunning 5-star property offering $1,300 per night rooms, beautiful riverfront views, a world-class spa, and proximity to historic sites.
• Shangri-La Hotel: Tim recommends this iconic riverside hotel, known for its luxurious rooms, stunning views, and convenient boat services that allow you to explore Bangkok's markets and malls without getting stuck in traffic.
• Peninsula Hotel: Another top-tier riverside hotel offering luxurious accommodations and unforgettable spa experiences. Tim praises the Peninsula for its relaxing vibe and excellent boat transport to the city’s attractions.

Shopping in Bangkok:

• MBK Center: A massive shopping complex with over 2,000 stores, offering everything from clothing to electronics. Tim and David discuss the quirky finds, like custom hats and t-shirts, and the sheer scale of this iconic mall that draws 100,000 visitors daily.
• Icon Siam: David highlights this ultra-luxurious shopping center with an indoor floating market, a unique spot for both high-end shopping and sampling authentic Thai street food.

Unique Experiences:

• Chattachak Weekend Market: David describes this world-renowned market, one of the largest in the world, as a must-visit for shopping, eating, and experiencing Bangkok’s vibrant street culture.
• Changchui Creative Park: For a more artistic vibe, David recommends this creative hub where an old cargo plane has been turned into a cocktail bar, perfect for a unique night out.
• Wat Po Massage School: For a true cultural experience, David suggests visiting the Wat Po Massage School, one of Bangkok's oldest temples and home to traditional Thai massage. You can book an...

In this bonus episode, Tim and David continue their deep dive into Istanbul with two unique cultural experiences: dining at one of the city’s most famous restaurants and indulging in a traditional Turkish bath. Here’s what you can expect:

Episode Highlights:

• Ciya Sofrasi – A Culinary Gem: Tim shares his love for this iconic restaurant on Istanbul’s Anatolian side. Founded by Chef Moussa, Ciya Sofrasi is known for preserving nearly forgotten regional Turkish dishes. David recalls his experience dining there, noting the affordability and authenticity of the food, with meals costing as little as $15-20 CAD per person.
• Culinary Anthropology: Learn how Chef Moussa traveled across Turkey to revive disappearing recipes, becoming known as a "culinary anthropologist." With multiple restaurants within walking distance, this is a must-visit spot in Istanbul.

Turkish Bath (Haman) Experience:

• David’s Haman Recommendations: David discusses his experiences at two historic Turkish baths:
• Kadirga Hamami: A budget-friendly, traditional bath experience for just 25 euros.
• Cagaloglu Hamami: A luxurious experience frequented by celebrities, but be sure to book in advance. Treatments here range from 150 euros and up.

Tim’s Turkish Bath Tips: While Turkish baths can be a workout in themselves, Tim explains how they are a far cry from typical Western spa treatments. Expect a thorough scrub, stretching, and a cultural experience that’s centuries old.

Thinking of Visiting a Turkish Bath? Whether you’re after the historical authenticity of a traditional Haman or prefer a more spa-like version in one of Istanbul’s luxury hotels, Tim and David offer advice for first-timers and advice on the best Turkish bath in Istanbul.

If you’re planning a trip to Istanbul or Turkey, this episode gives you the inside scoop on two unmissable experiences that will elevate your journey.

You can find all of our travel podcasts from around the world at Voyascape.com.