All you wanted to know about Pi Mai

Pi Mai is the Lao New Year and takes place from April 13 – 15. The New Year celebrations last three days. During the New Year, the Lao believe that the old spirit of Songkran leaves this plane, making way for a new one. The first day, known as Maha Songkran, is considered the last day of the old year. Lao will clean their houses and villages on this day, and prepare water, perfume, and flowers for the days ahead. The second day, the "day of no day", is neither part of the old year nor of the new year.

The third day, known as Wan Thaloeng Sok is the official start of the Lao New Year.

During the New Year, water plays a big part in the festivities - Lao bathe Buddha images in their local temples, pouring jasmine-scented water and flower petals on the sculptures. The faithful will also build sand stupas and decorate these with flowers and string. At each temple, monks will provide the water, as well as blessings for devotees flocking to the temples and the white bai sri strings, which they will tie around devotees' wrists.

People also get soaked during Bun Pi Mai - people respectfully pour water on monks and elders, and less reverently on each other! Foreigners are not exempt from this treatment - if you're in Laos during Bun Pi Mai, do expect to be soaked by passing teenagers, who'll give you the wet treatment from buckets of water, hoses, or high-pressure water guns.

That’s the cultural rundown. Here are some tips for those new to Pi Mai.

·         You will get soaked whenever you leave your house. You will not be excused.

·         Do not wear good clothes. The locals wear brightly coloured clothes. Cheap tropical attire will be sold almost everywhere.

·         People enjoy drinking and will offer you alcohol. Best to accept a little.

·         Driving is hazardous. Especially on motorbikes you - will be a target for water bombs. Walking is safer.

·         Most businesses, including banks, will be closed.