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Source: Blog Take Me Tour
By Taro Amornched
To all of my foreign friends who are coming to Thailand,
You might have heard the saddest news on Thursday 13 October 2016 that our beloved King Bhumibol Adulyadej has passed away at the age of 88 after 70-year long of non-stop working hard to serve his people as the “strength of the land”. This is why we, Thai people, call him “Father”. There are few points I would like to explain and clarify to you regarding what to expect & what should you do during this mourning period in Thailand.
What to expect?
Although all Thais are deeply in sadness, PM has urged everyone to help running business & economy as best as we all can. So most of the hotels, attractions, restaurants, department stores, and shops still operate as usual. However, main tourist attractions in the old-town district (Rattanakosin Island) are closed due to the royal mourning ceremony, e.g. grand palace & the temple of emerald buddha. All of the entertainment related events will be on halt for at least until the end of October 2016, for example, concerts, parties, or night clubs. I’ve put the exhaustive list at the end of this article. You also might have noticed that the social media and online sites might turns black in mourning. This is usual practice among Thais and nothing to worry about.
Is it safe to come to Thailand now?
Definitely yes. It’s even safer because everyone helps keeping eyes on any unusual. Almost everything is running as usual, e.g. floating market, Ayutthaya historical sites, River Kwai bridge, etc.
Should I postpone my trip?
If I were you and things are all planned out, I would not. Although you might not be able to visit the grand palace (at least at the moment), there are still many other great things to do here in Bangkok / Thailand, e.g. visiting floating market, enjoying delicious Thai food, doing a spa.
What should I do or prepare?
If you are coming to Thailand, it’s nothing to worry about if you understand the situation and our feeling. We will mostly wear black/white clothes. Please make sure to bring a couples of black/white or non-vivid colour clothes to wear in public. You might have to tone down and be respectful in public area. So you won’t feel too noticeable.
What else do you suggest?
I would consider using more public transportations (BTS, MRT) instead of commuting by car because it might be a heavy traffic in certain area.
List of Tourist Attractions Status
(Updated as of 14 Oct @ 2PM)
During this difficult time, the nation has suffered a tremendous loss since the decease of King Bhumibol Adulyadej. Many tourist attractions are royally significant venues which are surely affected by this incredible sorrow.
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Please click the following link for status
