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Thailand, is a spectacular place where magic and mystery can be
found in many places. If you are here in November, this magic flourishes
and there is one evening during the month that a truly mystical
experience, can be had.
On this particular night, on nearly every expanse of water, be
it a river, lake or the ocean, you'll notice thousands of lights.
Drifting across the water like fairy dreams. Gently flickering,
dipping and dancing in the breeze as they go, making a spectacular
sight.
This is Loi Krathong, Thailand's 'festival of lights'. Held yearly,
on the evening of the twelfth lunar month, it is the time of year
when the waters around the country become alive with candlelight
and look not unlike massive fairy ballrooms. When staying in a coastal
area, you can see these 'ballrooms' extending for miles out to sea.
In fact, sailors, making their way towards the likes of Phuket,
have reported seeing them close to the Similan Islands and beyond.
A festival not to be missed
This festival, falls in the 'not to be missed' category and if
you believe in luck, joining in, is a 'must do'. It's also one of
those celebrations that children absolutely adore and will certainly
be one of their fondest memories of their visit to this part of
the world.
If you happen to be holidaying in Phuket, one of the more popular
festival venues, when this enchanting festival occurs; (on November
5, this year), you might just have a better chance of a luck filled
future. Phuket's west coast beaches generally have an off-shore
breeze blowing at this time of year, which will help give your wishes
a boost. How good your fortune will be, is up to you and the tides
or currents during the festivities. There is one simple way to ensure
that at least a little of the festival's blessing comes your way,
however.
How to partake in the festival
In the hours preceding sunset, you'll notice many makeshift stalls
selling 'krathongs' along the streets of Phuket. Buy one…or
better still, buy (or make) one, for each person in your holiday
party. These flower covered min-floats, complete with candles and
incense sticks, often resembling lotus flowers, are an essential
part in promoting good fortune during the festival.
As the sun dips below the horizon and the full moon begins to hover
in the night sky, take your krathong to the nearest beach, lake
or similar watery area and release it with the outgoing tide or
current. The belief being, that if the krathong floats away from
you, the coming year will bring good fortune, if it floats back
towards the shore, then perhaps your luck may not be quite as you
had wished.
How to assist in ensuring good fortune comes your way
On releasing the kratong, you can help your fortunes along a little
by placing personal items on the floating platform. Some put nail
clippings or strands of hair into the krathong, in the belief that
the sins of the past year will be washed away; coins too are often
placed inside as a way of making merit. For the romantic at heart
and young couples, Loi Krathong is the time to make a wish for happiness
together and success in love.
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