Distinguished guests were welcomed in traditional Thai Songkran custom.
Dusit Thani Dubai welcomes the celebration of Songkran (Thai New Year) with an exquisite array of Thai sights, sounds and flavors on April 11, 2010 (Sunday). Two days shy from the actual Songkran itself, the 5-star hotel—in cooperation with the Tourism Authority of Thailand and Thai Airways—commenced the beginning of a week-long fete with the Songkran Dinner & Thai Art Exhibition. The evening was attended by esteemed guests from the Thai Embassy headed by His Excellency Ambassador Somchai Charanasomboon and Thai Consul General Mr. Pasan Teparak, as well as representatives of the Dubai Government and other dignitaries including the Egyptian Consul-General Mr. Mohab Nasr. Members of the Thai community and media professionals were likewise treated to the night of authentic Thai flair much to their delight.
The evening began with a spirited live Thai dance performance by Dusit Thani Dubai’s dedicated staff which was held at the hotel lobby. An ensemble playing native Thai instruments provided a more engulfing experience. Gasps of excitement escaped the audience as they witnessed the rhythmic vibe combined with the exhilarating skips between bamboo poles. After the performance, some of the guests joined in the merrymaking, testing their footwork and coordination. Guests were then escorted up to the 24th floor of the hotel where the main event took place. Upon entering the venue, the guests were greeted with garlands of purple orchids and the traditional sprinkling of Thai scented water. It is customary in Thailand to splash water in this season as it is a way of paying their respects to others. Through this act, it is believed that they send out good fortune. Adding enjoyment to it is the fact that the hottest month in Thailand falls in April; thus, by sprinkling or splashing water relieving them from the scorching heat.
A treat for the eyes awaited the guests with Thai Art Exhibition featuring the renowned Thai glass master Jirawatn Chavantit as its highlight. Elegance amidst fragility depicts his masterpieces. More of his works, including the Opera Crystal Wall designed for Dusit Club in Dusi Thani Hua-Hin, are featured in his CD giveaway also available at the exhibit. Live demonstrations of Thai goldsmiths, fruit and vegetable carving, as well as Thai handicrafts and silk were also in display. A special Songkran 5-course dinner followed at Dusit Thani’s signature restaurant, Benjarong. It was indeed an event in itself. Ornate live dance performances as part of the Songkran Entertainment accompanied the delectable Royal Thai cuisine the restaurant is best known for—truly a feast for the senses. The distinct Thai hospitality innate among the people from Dusit Thani Dubai ensured that the evening began and concluded with a smile.
This year’s Songkran celebration at Dusit Thani Dubai will run until April 17 (Sunday). The festivity will include the 5-course dining promotion in Benjarong, in addition to the Thai Art Exhibition all happening at the 24th Floor. Guests staying at Dusit Thani Dubai during the month of April can also choose to avail a special Dusit Songkran Splash offer with discounted rates and additional privileges.
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Photo:
http://www.prlog.org/
