7 more things you need to know about Thailand travel during the mourning period

7 more things you need to know about Thailand travel during the mourning period

Your travel plans to Thailand may need to be adjusted now that the country is in a state of mourning. Find out what key events and festivities are affected, as well as how to be a respectful tourist during the year-long period of mourning.

Read also: Do's and don'ts for tourists during mourning period for Thai King

DRESS RESPECTFULLY

Most Thai people will be wearing black or white during the period of mourning. Although no specific dress code has been imposed on visitors, it is best to wear sombre colours and to avoid short or revealing clothes.

Swimwear should still be acceptable if worn at the beach though.

MOST TOURIST ATTRACTIONS WILL BE OPEN, EXCEPT THESE

The Grand Palace, including the Wat Phra Kaeo (Temple of the Emerald Buddha) will be closed until Nov 1 as they are involved in the royal funeral rites.

Photo: Wikimedia Commons

The Ratchadamnoen Boxing Stadium and Lumpinee Boxing Stadium Ramintra Bangkok will also be closed until Nov 1.

Other tourist attractions will generally be open as usual ─ take care not to fall prey to Bangkok's temple scams!

HOW TO PAY YOUR RESPECTS

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Those who wish to pay their respects or write messages of condolences can do so at the Grand Palace. Check the Tourism Authority of Thailand site for details.

NUMEROUS MUSIC EVENTS AND PARTIES HAVE BEEN CANCELLED

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Out of respect for the king's passing, numerous entertainment activities have already been cancelled.

The October edition of Thailand's famous full moon party was cancelled, and the November date rescheduled; The Urban Music Festival, as well as concerts by the Scorpions and Big Bang have been cancelled; the World Film Festival that was set for November has been postponed; certain cultural events, like the colourful Loi Krathong have also been suspended.

Check the respective event websites and Facebook pages to find out if your travel plans have ben affected.

LOWER YOUR EXPECTATIONS OF NIGHTLIFE ACTIVITIES

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The Thai government has requested nightlife venues ─ bars, clubs etc ─ to review their opening hours during this time of mourning. While there are no formal regulations, with the businesses having the final say, we reckon that nightlife spots might be more subdued, or have shortened opening hours during the mourning period ─ perhaps not for the full year, but at least for the first 30 days of the mourning period.

BE ON YOUR BEST BEHAVIOUR

On that note, it's probably best not to be drunk or rowdy when you're out and about.

DON'T MAKE REMARKS ABOUT THE ROYAL FAMILY IN PUBLIC

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Thailand has one of the strictest lese majeste laws, and complaints can be filed by anyone against anyone. The Thai people have great reverence for their late king, and sensitivity towards any perceived insults or critical remarks about the royal family or succession may be heightened during this time of mourning, so be very careful about what you say.

You really can't be sure if someone else might misinterpret your words ─ even if they seemed like innocent, curious questions or joking remarks.

 

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