FROM THE PRESIDENT'S DESK Hello everyone, Every year about this time, just when the heat and smoke seem to have settled in for the long haul, Thailand gives us a reason to step outside, get soaked, and—whether we fully understand it or not—take part in something far more meaningful than a nationwide water fight. I’m talking, of course, about Songkran. Like a lot of things here, it’s easy to see the forest
and miss the trees. Think buckets of water, traffic jams, closed businesses, and a general sense that normal life has been temporarily suspended. But behind all that is a tradition that goes back centuries, rooted in respect, renewal, and a fresh start. Songkran marks the traditional Thai New Year, and while it’s now officially observed from April 13th to 15th, each of those three days carries its own significance. April 13th is known as “Wan Maha
Songkran,” essentially New Year’s Eve. Traditionally, this is the day for cleaning—homes, temples, and even one’s state of mind. It’s about letting go of the past year’s misfortunes and starting with a clean slate. If you’ve ever wondered why there’s such an emphasis on washing things (and people), this is where it begins. April 14th is “Wan Nao,” often considered the in-between day. It’s a time for making merit—visiting temples, offering food to monks, and building sand
pagodas. These small, symbolic acts are meant to bring good fortune and balance for the year ahead. It’s also a day when families come together, something that remains at the heart of the holiday despite all the festivities happening outside. April 15th is “Wan Thaloeng Sok,” or New Year’s Day itself. This is when the focus turns to respect and gratitude. Younger people pour scented water over the hands of elders in a gesture of humility and blessing. It’s a beautiful
tradition, and one that reminds us that Songkran isn’t just about starting over—it’s also about acknowledging the people who helped us get here. Of course, over time the celebration has evolved. What began as a gentle sprinkling of water for blessings has, in many places, turned into full-scale water battles. That said, both versions coexist, and if you look just a little beneath the surface, you’ll still find the original spirit alive and well. So as we
head into the next few days, whether you plan to stay dry, join in, or simply observe from a safe distance, it’s worth remembering what Songkran is really about. A fresh start, a bit of reflection, and maybe a reminder to slow down and appreciate where we are. That’s it, enjoy the holiday, please stay safe, and if you do head out, assume you’re going to get wet—whether you planned to or not. -Kent POWERPOINT PRESENTATIONS FROM OUR MARCH 28 EXPAT CONNECTION |
HAVE SOME FUN - MAKE A DIFFERENCE! Six months ago, the Club faced an existential crisis. A significant number of members came together and said they did not want the Club to dissolve. A core group of these folks agreed to form a new Board and take the club forward. Not only
has this resulted in a sustainable stability (both financially and operationally), we have also had a number of helpers come forward to share the day-to-day workload. This is great! It also gives us an opportunity to think about the future. This future should include new ideas, new leaders, and new vision. Where are these leaders going to come from? I have no doubt that many of you have had thoughts like, “ I wish the Club would do more of
this..” or, “ I wish they wouldn’t do that”…. “. YOU not only have the opportunity to make your voice heard; you can help shape the vision and future of the club. We would love to find a few new Board members to become involved NOW…. When things are running smoothly…. When there is no emergency. You don’t have to “un-retire” to make a big difference! You need to care about the club and you need to be willing to invest a couple of hours a
week. If you would like information on what’s involved with being on the Board, or if you have any questions, feel free to contact Kent at [email protected], or Rick at [email protected]. |
SATURDAY BREAKFAST at THE DUKE'S MAY 2, 2026 The Duke's - Ruamchok The next breakfast is Saturday, May 2! CEC get 100 baht off with reservation at The Duke’s Breakfast Buffet! Reservations open next week. NEXT EXPAT CONNECTION - MAY 23 Check back for details DUANGTAWAN HOTEL - 3RD FLOOR 9:45 - 10:30 - Coffee/Tea/Snacks/Sponsors 10:30 - 12:00 Meeting EXPAT LADIES LUNCH No word yet on the next lunch, please check
back JOIN US FOR TUESDAY DINNER Every Tuesday from 5:00pm to 8:00pm Currently at the Wine Connection restaurant at Central Festival - they host us for free. They have easy parking, a great selection of food and drinks for members to buy, and a separate area we can use. This is scheduled to be a regular event every Tuesday between 5pm and 8pm. Everyone is welcome, come along, bring your friends and meet new ones! Cheers, Jim
Please plan to
join us! No reservations! No fees! Just come and socialize with your fellow expats in a delightful venue. BRIDGE CLUB OF CHIANG MAI We are a friendly bridge club with our own club house not far from the city centre. We have both Thai and expat members. Members and guests get together three times a week to play duplicate. We also offer periodic beginner bridge lessons. Please go to our website for further information: https://www.bridgewebs.com/chiangmai/ CMGEEKS (Chiang Mai Geeks) THANK YOU TO OUR VALUED SPONSORS Click on the Sponsor name to go to their website/Facebook page Thai Road Assist provides 24/7 country-wide roadside assistance services with
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thinking ahead — whether for themselves, a spouse, or a family member. Choosing the right senior care environment is an important decision, especially when conditions such as dementia require specialized attention and understanding. At Serene Senior Care, our focus is on dignity, comfort, safety, and personalized care — within a warm and supportive community. We warmly invite members of the Chiang Mai Expats Club to arrange a private tour and learn how we can support you
and your family in planning for the future. 📞 +66 64 456 2632 📧 [email protected] 🌐 Serene-seniorcare.com We would be honored to be part of your long-term care journey. The Serene Senior Care Team Personalized Care for Longevity & Quality Living We are a small family-friendly group dedicated to child safety, health and education through our service projects. Asia’s best U.S. tax firm. We are focused on assisting U.S. expatriates and businesses with tax planning, consulting and return preparation. Exclusive April Wellness Offer for Chiang Mai Expat Club Members
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Look no further! Our law firm specializes in providing comprehensive legal solutions tailored to the unique needs of expatriates." Chiang Mai Medical Center Hospital is a 100 bed private hospital providing both medical and surgical services with stringent quality standards is built with vision to serve everyone who needs hospital care. We place special emphasis on our principles of respect for all, care, compassion and patient support. For English assistance : Mr. Kumar 085-167-0005 Assist Thai Visa has been helping it’s clients obtain their Thai Visas in Chiang Mai since 2008, and offers members a discounted rate on a 45-minute consultation. Regular price is 50 USD (approx 1600 baht), members price is 35 USD (approx 1120 baht). Click the button above to book your consultation. Bangkok Hospital Chiang Mai is so much more than just a hospital. Our state-of-the-art facility is staffed with skilled, caring professionals who are dedicated to the health and wellness of the patients they serve. Bangkok Hospital Chiang Mai was established in 2014 as the 36th tertiary care hospital in the Bangkok Dusit Medical Services (BDMS) Group, the most prestigious hospital network in the
Asia-Pacificregion, with 49 hospitals across the BDMS network. Bangkok Hospital Chiang Mai is the center of specialized healthcare for diagnostic and curative services in northern Thailand. Chiang Mai's #1 Insurance Service
For Health, Travel, Home, Car, Bike & Personal Accident insurance. Is a vibrant, progressive Real Estate agency based in Chiang Mai, offering quality properties for rent and for sale in and around the main areas of Chiang Mai. Is a registered hospital, Class 1, which does not admit overnight patients. It provides health care and rehabilitation services using the principles of integrative medicine, combining modern medicine with alternative medicine. |
The Chiang Mai Expats Club (CEC) publishes various types of information for the purpose of helping fellow expats become acclimated and thrive in Chiang Mai. While we try to keep such information current and accurate, we do not have sufficient resources to provide assurance as to timeliness and accuracy. We advise members to confirm the information for themselves.
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Mail AddressP.O. Box 166 Phrasing Post Office สำนักงานไปรษณีย์ พระสิงห์
43 Samlan Rd., T. Phra Sing, A. Muang 50200 43 ถ.สามล้าน ต.พระสิงห์ อ.เมือง จงเชียงใหม่ 50200 Chiang Mai
Email is preferred method of communication. ©2024 Chiang Mai Expat Club | Chiang Mai
Expats Club, P.O. Box 166, Phrasing Post Office, A. Muang, Chiang Mai 50205, Thailand |
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