Laos: Soaking up the New Year

Despite being a country with a population of over four million, Laos remains unknown to many. Located below China, in between Thailand and Vietnam and right above Cambodia, the serene and majestic landscape is reflected in the tranquility of the culture and people. However, between April 13th and 15th, when Laotians celebrate their New Year, also known as "bee mai," everything changes.

This is a time when people shower one another with buckets of water, powder and jasmine petals - a tradition that they believe will cleanse everyone from the evil of the past year and to start the new year fresh. This practice mirrors the respect of the seven daughters to their father - a Lao King - who severed his head in sacrifice for his citizens.

To honor Dad's heroic action, the daughters continued to wash his hair long after his death. Since then, friends douse friends and family members from head to toe as a sign of honor. Occasionally, one might end up with some disgruntled relatives (or angry bystanders), he just grins cheekily and wish them good health!

During the festivities, it is not just the people that gets wet. Everything gets wet! That includes the Buddha statues within all the temples where you’ll find the largest gatherings of worshippers.

"Song nam pha" is a tradition involving the bathing of all the Buddha statues and the gathered worshippers reverently take upon this task. As part of the Laotian culture and belief, this is a way of asking for a healthy and prosperous "bee mai."

Another tradition is called "bai si," where one gets tied around the wrist with white or yellow strings, "pook can," as a sign of being blessed. Visitors, do not worry if you don’t know anyone in Laos; friendly Laotians will happily bless you with "pook can."

But even if you’re planning your trip before the "bee mai," you can still see and experience the culture that makes this country so beautiful. You can visit Hau Pha Keo, the oldest temple in Vietntiane, and Wat Xiang Thong in Luang Prabang. The monks will be more than happy to accommodate the spiritually faithful or curious.

For those who wish to be awed by the natural scenery, they can enjoy a boat ride on the harmonious Mekong River, or simply dine alongside of it at the many local restaurants.

Exploring and shopping at the "thalat sow" is a must. It’s a heaven for discriminating shoppers and bargainers. From 24-carat gold chain necklaces to coffee to sun-dried squid, and from dust to dawn, bargaining is everywhere. So, put that "kip" (Laos currency) to good use.

Whatever you do in Laos, you’ll always come across the most gentle, polite, and welcoming people. A beautiful countryside combined with a genuine benevolence towards others produces a land where it is easy for travelers - and natives - to immerse themselves in the culture, the feelings of harmony and family.

So leave the bathing suit at home and enjoy a good soak. The wetter, the luckier! Just be careful not to slip in any puddles—better yet, jump in! "Sa bai dee bee mai!" (Happy Laos New Year!)