Following the death of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej, reigning monarch of Thailand, many of the Thai people have been in a state of mourning, suspending closing their business and cancelling important events and festivals. The loss of their king is something they take seriously, and something tourists need to respect and understand, despite the inconvenience of missing out on much of what Thailand has to offer during the mourning season.
The Sun reports that the state of mourning is expected to last for at least one year, with limitations on alcohol sales, and the shutting down of some businesses, including clubs and bars those in Bangkok's red light district.
In addition, Yahoo! Lifestyle has released some important details on what events are cancelled, and what tourist attractions are open. The following are open for business, and tourists should stick to these attractions for the time being. Please take note that some of the bars that are open do not serve alcohol at this time.
1. Wat Pho (The Temple of the Reclining Buddha)
2. Wat Arun (The Temple of Dawn)
3. National Museum Bangkok
4. The Alcazar Cabaret, Pattaya
5. Tiffany's Show, Pattaya
6. Siam Niramit
7. Phuket Simon Cabaret
8. Calypso at Asiatique The Riverfront
Most events have been cancelled at the wake of the country's morning, but here are a few events that are pushing through, despite some scaling back on the production value. It is also expected that these events will use some of their time to talk about the beloved King or to take a moment of silence in his remembrance.
1. Rap Bua Festival at Bangphli, Samut Prakan: 12-15 October 2016
2. Poi Lynn Sib Et Festival, Mae Hong Son: 14-16 October 2016
The King, 88 years old, has been on Thailand's throne for 70 years, and has earned the respect of the people of Thailand, with all locals wearing black or white as a sign of mourning. It is advised that tourists also wear dark-colored clothing, and to be respectful in public area. Besides being culturally sensitive, there is a law stating that anyone who insults the late monarch could be punished with up to 15 years in prison.
This article is copyrighted by Travelers Today, the travel news leader
