The Songkran Celebration
Celebrate Thailand’s most iconic festival, immerse yourself in vibrant city streets, and experience local culture with energy and joy. Each day of Songkran is designed to spark connection, laughter, and unforgettable moments.
8 Days | April 12–19, 2026
Duration
8 days/7 nights
Group Size
5-18 people
Age Requirement
Age 21+
Trip Type
Thai Festival
Overview
Venture on a thrilling 5-day adventure through Bangkok, centered around the energetic and world-renowned Songkran Festival. Begin your journey in Bangkok, where you’ll immerse yourself in the energy of the festival with cultural explorations, temple visits, and exciting water fights on the lively streets of Bangkok.
For those looking to extend their journey, an optional 3-day relaxation retreat to Phuket awaits. After the excitement of Songkran, unwind at a serene beach resort, enjoy exclusive activities like a day at the world’s first floating beach club, and take time to recharge with leisurely beachside vibes. Whether you’re craving adventure and cultural experiences or relaxation by the sea, this 5-day trip (with the option to extend) offers the perfect balance of excitement and tranquility.
Why This Trip Matters?
At Ember & Co., we design every experience to do more than check off a destination; we create trips that leave a spark. Our Songkran experience combines cultural meaning, human connection, and just the right amount of play.
You’ll offer alms to monks at sunrise, ride tuk-tuks through historic Bangkok, get joyfully soaked during Songkran, and unwind on the beaches of Phuket. Every moment is curated to be safe, soulful, and memorable, inviting you to connect deeply with the culture, the people, and the magic of the season.
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome to Bangkok!
Day 2: Alms Giving & Cultural Exploration
Start your day with the peaceful and meaningful Alms Giving ceremony by the riverfront. As monks arrive by traditional longtail boats, you’ll have the unique opportunity to offer alms in a time-honored Thai tradition, embracing the spirit of Songkran. After the serene ceremony and monks’ chants, enjoy a breakfast buffet by the river, immersing yourself in the tranquil beauty of the morning. Next, venture on a half-day adventure to Koh Kret, where you’ll explore the island by bicycle, discovering its rich heritage of pottery-making and local flavors. Afterward, head back to Bangkok for check-in, followed by an unforgettable dinner cruise along the iconic Chao Phraya River, an evening of elegance, culture, and breathtaking views.
Day 3: Temple Tour & Songkran Water Fights
After a delicious breakfast, venture on a tuk-tuk adventure through Bangkok’s iconic temples. Visit the majestic Wat Phra Kaew and the Grand Palace, home to Thailand’s sacred Emerald Buddha. Then, explore Wat Pho and its famous Reclining Buddha, before crossing the river to visit Wat Arun, known for its stunning spires.
Continue your cultural exploration with visits to the Metal Castle and Golden Mount, where you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the city.
After lunch at a local riverside restaurant, it’s time for the highlight of the day: Songkran celebrations! Head to Khao San Road, the heart of the water festival, and dive into the vibrant chaos armed with a water gun. Experience the energy and excitement of Songkran like never before. Finish the day by transferring back to your hotel for some rest and free time.
Day 4: Elephant Sanctuary & Songkran Water Fights in Silom
Begin your day with a visit to the Elephant Sanctuary, where you’ll connect with elephants in their natural jungle home. Enjoy feeding them fresh fruits and walking alongside them as they bathe and play—this ethical, hands-on experience offers a deeper understanding of elephant conservation.
Next, head back to Bangkok and dive into the vibrant energy of Songkran in Silom. Join the bustling water fights, armed with a water gun, and immerse yourself in the lively, celebratory atmosphere. After the festivities, return to your hotel for some well-deserved free time to unwind or explore further.
Day 5: Bangkok Departure or Optional Extension to Phuket
Enjoy a final breakfast at the hotel before your transfer to the airport for your departure. For those choosing the optional extension to Phuket, get ready for a relaxing escape. Stay tuned for details on the serene beach resort and exclusive activities that await in Phuket!
Day 5: (Continued) - Phuket Relaxation Weekend: Arrival & Leisure
Day 6: Exclusive Relaxation at Yona Floating Beach Club
Spend your day at the world’s first floating beach club, Yona, where luxury meets the sea. Enjoy a private cabana, the perfect spot for ultimate relaxation with panoramic views. Take a dip in the crystal-clear waters, lounge by the pool, or simply savor the serene atmosphere. This day is all about indulgence, where relaxation meets exclusive coastal beauty. The perfect escape from the festival excitement, allowing you to recharge in style.
Day 7: Free Day to Explore Phuket at Your Own Pace
This is your day to unwind or explore Phuket as you please. Whether you want to check out local weekend markets, enjoy authentic street food, or simply soak in the tropical beauty, the choice is yours. Lounge at the beach, visit nearby attractions, or relax at the resort—it’s all about what feels right for you.
In the evening, we’ll gather one last time for a special Farewell Dinner—a chance to reflect, connect, and celebrate the memories we’ve made together in Thailand.
Day 8: Farewell
Map
Destination Gallery
Your Experienced Host
Meet Antoinette
Curating Journeys with Care
Antoinette Yvonne, Founder and CEO of Ember & Co., brings years of global travel experience and a deep respect for local cultures to every journey she leads. As your host, she takes care of the details so you can focus on exploring, learning, and connecting with both the destination and your fellow travelers. Known for her thoughtful approach and personal touch, Antoinette creates an environment where every trip feels seamless, engaging, and memorable, helping travelers move through the world with curiosity, care, and intention.
Voices From the Journey
T. Bryant
Soul-Nourishing and Unforgettable
This Bali trip was absolutely amazing. The ability to create beautiful, soul-nourishing experiences and bring together the right people is a true gift. I felt completely safe, seen, and at ease, which allowed me to show up fully as myself. That kind of synergy is rare and deeply appreciated. Already planning my next trip and so grateful for such a memorable, joy-filled trip!
K. Cooper
Smooth, Thoughtful, & Well-Paced
B. McFadden
First Time in Bali, Forever Changed
C. Smith
Solo Traveler's Dream Trip
C. Rodolphe
A Trip Worth Repeating
The tours were educational and detailed, giving great insight into the history and culture. The group was wonderful, and the trip was an amazing experience. I’ll be sharing this adventure for months, and I’d happily return to Morocco!
D. Walker
Every Detail Thought Of
My host (Antoinette) was gracious and professional, and I felt completely safe. All my needs were met. I was deeply touched by my experience on this trip, my host, my roommate, and the rest of the team made everything effortless. I truly felt spoiled, as every detail was taken care of. I didn’t have to think of a thing. Thank you so much!
C. Taylor
Easy Travel, Great Company
Everything was well organized, with timely updates for any schedule changes. I loved the welcome dinner at the hotel, perfect after long travel, and the elegant farewell dinner at the aquarium. It was great connecting with new and old friends. Thank you for another wonderful trip!
L. Boldin
South Africa at Its Best
The professionalism and attention to detail from the team were outstanding and everything was handled with such joy. South Africa was beautiful, with unforgettable excursions, great guides, and amazing accommodations. It was the perfect mix of fun and relaxation, and the people made it even better. Do yourself a favor and book this trip. You won’t regret it!
E. Boldin
Five Stars All Around
Everything was so well organized, and Antoinette went above and beyond to check in and make sure we were good. I experienced new foods, fun activities, and even treated myself to a hot stone massage—highly recommend! This vacation was amazing. Five stars to Antoinette!
C. Anderson
Fear Conquered, Fun Had
R. Gunn
Bali Beyond My Dreams
V. Redmon
Effortless Planning
D. McLaurin
Exceeded Every Expectation
I thought this would be a bunch of bougie folks, but I was completely wrong. The group was genuine and amazing. The accommodations were absolutely fire, and the experience Ms. Antoinette put together was flawless. She’s created a LuxNomad fan for life. This trip even had me dreaming about extending my stay to explore more. Can’t wait for the next adventure!
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s included/excluded?
Inclusions: Your trip includes 4 nights in a boutique Bangkok hotel, daily breakfasts, select group meals, and a traditional Thai welcome dinner. All ground transportation for planned activities is covered, along with expert local guides and a dedicated on-the-ground host. You’ll also enjoy curated cultural experiences, including full participation in the Songkran Festival, and a pre-trip virtual meetup to help you prepare and connect with fellow travelers. If you choose the Phuket extension, your trip also includes 2 nights in a boutique Phuket hotel with planned activities and leisure time to enjoy the coast.
Exclusions: International airfare, as well as domestic flights to Phuket if you’re extending your trip, are not included. Travel insurance, visas or digital entry forms, vaccinations, and COVID tests are your responsibility. Personal expenses and souvenirs are not included, and tips for local staff and guides, which help make the trip smooth and enjoyable, are also expected.
What’s the pace of the trip?
The Bangkok portion is designed to be lively and full of energy: think early starts, local adventures, and celebrating Thailand’s famous Songkran Festival, the country’s biggest and most joyful water celebration. During the festival, expect playful water fights, street parades, and temple visits. It’s a vibrant cultural experience where everyone gets involved, so you’ll definitely get splashed!
You should be comfortable walking up to 5 miles in warm weather and joining in group activities throughout the day. The Phuket extension, on the other hand, is intentionally slower-paced, more about rest, ocean views, and unhurried moments after the excitement of Bangkok.
What accommodations are included?
We stay in 4-star boutique hotels in Bangkok and Phuket. Double and single occupancy options are available. Solo travelers choosing double occupancy will be paired based on preferences; if unmatched 90 days prior, the single occupancy supplement will apply. Traveling with a friend? Let us know at registration so you can room together.
Male travelers: We welcome both men and women on our trips. That said, due to the typical guest makeup, groups often have a higher ratio of female travelers. Solo male guests are required to book a single occupancy package to ensure a comfortable experience for everyone, while male travelers with a friend are welcome to select double occupancy.
How is transport arranged?
What meals are included?
Most meals are included: 7 breakfasts (4 for Bangkok only), 4 lunches (3 for Bangkok only), and 3 dinners (2 for Bangkok only). Unless otherwise noted, meals come with water; soft drinks and alcohol are not included unless specifically stated. You’ll enjoy a variety of Thai cuisine, from local gems to group dinners showcasing regional flavors. During the registration process, we collect all dietary needs and restrictions to accommodate guests wherever possible, though travelers should come with an open mind for culturally immersive meals.
What travel documents or visas are required?
Travelers must hold a passport valid for at least six months beyond the last day of travel, with at least two blank pages. U.S. citizens do not need a visa for stays of up to 30 days for tourism. All travelers must complete Thailand’s Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) online before arrival. We’ll guide you through this closer to departure.
Is travel insurance required?
Travel insurance is not included, but we strongly recommend it, particularly “cancel for any reason” coverage. This helps protect against unexpected medical or family emergencies and allows recovery of non-refundable trip expenses. We partner with Faye Travel Insurance to provide our guests with trusted options and guidance for securing the coverage that best fits your needs.
What airports should I fly into?
Please fly into Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK). If joining the Phuket extension, depart from Phuket International Airport (HKT). International airfare and domestic flights are not included. Please wait to book your flights until you receive our email with instructions to ensure your travel aligns perfectly with the itinerary.
Are there pre-trip meetings or resources?
How do trip payments work?
Each trip offers a unique payment option. You can choose to pay for your trip in full, secure your spot with a down payment, then set up a monthly plan. Monthly payments will be automatically drafted every 30 days from the date of your registration until the trip is fully paid.
What is the refund and cancellation policy?
Guests have 24 hours from booking to cancel for a full refund. After that, deposits are non-refundable. For complete details, including special promotions and exceptions, please review our Group Trips Terms & Booking Conditions. We also recommend travel insurance for added protection.
Are tips included?
Tips are not included in your trip price. We recommend budgeting around $100–$150 USD for local staff and service teams who help make your experience seamless and memorable. Your trip host will collect tips at the end of the journey to ensure proper distribution. PLEASE NOTE: our trips are designed with a focus on respect and gratitude for the people who make your experience possible. If tipping or showing appreciation for service is a concern, this may not be the right experience for you.
What if I have special needs or mobility concerns?
This trip involves walking several miles on some days, uneven terrain, water activities, and long drives within Thailand, so it’s important to review the full itinerary carefully to determine if you are physically able to participate. At this time, we are not equipped to provide hands-on support for guests with special medical or mobility needs.
Please note that medical facilities abroad may not meet the same standards as those in your home country, and travel in remote areas may involve risk of injury, sickness, or other dangers. We encourage all guests to assess their health and fitness in advance and secure appropriate travel insurance.
Who typically joins these trips?
While any traveler 21 and older can join our trips, most participants are typically between 30 and 60 years old. Age is just a number; what matters most is being comfortable with the trip’s pace and activities. It’s important to review the itinerary and make sure the experience matches your mobility and comfort level. Solo travelers, couples, friends, and even family members join our trips, creating a diverse and welcoming group dynamic that adds to the richness of the experience.
Journey Pricing
Starting At-
4-star boutique accommodations throughout the journey
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Private transport throughout the journey
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Guided cultural tours with local experts
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Participation in the Songkran Water Festival
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Daily breakfast + select local meals
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Pre-trip virtual meetings
Songkran Only
Join the Bangkok-only adventure and experience Thailand’s Songkran festival up close, celebrate, explore, and make unforgettable memories in the city’s vibrant streets.
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