The powerful earthquake that struck Myanmar on March 28, causing aftershocks in some areas of northern Thailand, has raised concerns about a slowdown in Thailand's tourism industry. However, despite initial predictions, Vietnamese travel agencies have recorded a large number of customers continuing to book tours to Thailand in April, showing the irresistible appeal of the "Land of Golden Pagodas".
However, many Vietnamese tourists still expressed concerns about safety issues, questioning whether Thailand is still a safe destination to travel to at this time. In response to these concerns, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) quickly spoke up to reassure, affirming that all festival activities, transportation, services and tourism nationwide are still operating normally, unaffected by the earthquake aftershocks.
The earthquake did not have much impact on life and tourism in Thailand.
Thai authorities also assessed that the earthquake did not cause serious damage in the country. The two major international airports, Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang, remained in operation, and the BTS and MRT systems in Bangkok, as well as expressways and highways nationwide, did not record any incidents.
The biggest reason why Vietnamese tourists cannot resist the attraction of Thailand is the traditional Songkran water festival, a unique and colorful cultural event that is imbued with the identity of the "Land of Golden Pagodas". This year, this festival not only marks a full return after the restrictions of the pandemic, but also has a more special meaning than ever: Songkran 2025 has been honored by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, a worthy recognition for its profound traditional cultural values.
Water Festival takes place over three main days, from April 13 to 15, however many places organize it a week earlier and last for up to half a month.
With the theme "Songkran in Thailand - Traditional Thai New Year Festival", this year's festival promises to bring visitors diverse and rich cultural experiences. Not only is it about water splashing on the streets, Songkran 2025 is also a national cultural event, spreading joy and happiness to all parts of the country, from the Central, North, Northeast to the Southern coastal areas.
This is the New Year celebration in Thailand, also the biggest tourist event of the year with water splashing activities taking place on every street.
Songkran 2025 is also an important highlight in the "Thailand Tourism and Sports Year 2025" program series, an ambitious tourism promotion campaign of the Thai government. This festival is expected to create the most vibrant and bustling tourist season in many years, attracting millions of tourists from all over the world to the "Land of Golden Temples". Vietnamese tourists, with their love for Thai culture and people, will certainly not miss the opportunity to immerse themselves in the jubilant festival atmosphere and experience memorable moments.
This year, Thailand's traditional water festival not only returns in full swing after the pandemic, but also takes on a more special meaning than ever.
The 2025 Songkran Festival is approaching, promising to bring visitors unique cultural experiences and unforgettable joyful moments. Maha Songkran World Water Festival at Sanam Luang & Ratchadamnoen Klang, Bangkok (April 11–15) is the biggest event, with spectacular water splashing, traditional cultural activities and vibrant entertainment programs. S20 Songkran Music Festival at Rajamangala Stadium, Bangkok (April 12–14) is a unique electronic music festival combined with water splashing, attracting young people and music lovers. Coming to Chiang Mai (April 7–16), visitors will be immersed in the traditional festival atmosphere, with ancient rituals and unique cultural activities. Khon Kaen (April 8–15) is one of the most famous destinations to experience Songkran in the Northeast of Thailand.
Many people look forward to the activities that will be held on this great holiday.
Coastal cities such as Phuket, Songkhla, Surat Thani are ideal destinations for those who want to combine beach tourism and participate in the Songkran festival. Visitors can also explore the unique cultures of different regions in Thailand through the highland cultural parades in Phrae, Lamphun, Ubon Ratchathani.
Songkran 2025 is not just a water festival, but a nationwide cultural event that combines tradition and modernity. Visitors will be able to participate in cultural ceremonies, folk fairs, art performances and various entertainment events. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has confirmed that all economic, transport and tourism activities nationwide have returned to normal after the earthquake. Safety checks and inspections are still being carried out to ensure a safe and smooth festival season.
