Songkran at Ancient Siam 2009

[Richard Barrow]

Yesterday I was invited to the opening ceremony for the Songkran celebration at Ancient Siam (formerly known as Ancient City). Pictured above is the governor of Samut Prakan together with other officials. From 13th to 15th April they will be celebrating Songkran of the 4 Regions here. There will be cultural activities in various places around the park showing how each region celebrates Songkran. There will also be dancing from each region. Unfortunately, the public relations people were unable to give me a press release in English. Click here for a report I did before over at www.paknam.com.

[KhaoNiaw]

Is there an extra charge for farangs this year?

[Richard Barrow]

Do you mean more than the normal 300 baht that they charge foreigners? I presume it would be the same. I am not sure as I just said that I was media and they let me in for free.

[Richard Barrow]

Today I was back at the Ancient Siam in Samut Prakan to enjoy their Songkran activities (see map). During most of the major holidays, like new year, Loy Krathong and Songkran, they put on extra activities. The Ancient Siam is a good place to go at any time of the year. However, if you go during these special occassions then you will get double value for money. If you have a work permit, a Thai driver's license, or know enough Thai to bluff your way in then it costs only 150 baht. For other foreign tourists it is 300 baht. I am glad to see that today they allowed us to drive our car around the entire park.



In the floating market area you can rent boats.



There were dance shows from the four regions





There were also games to play like climb the greasy pole



... and blindfold boxing.

There is one more day to enjoy these activities. More information at paknam.com.

[Sparky]

Climbing the greasy pole competition . A must for those who want to be a politician when they grow up.