A nation mourns: Be mindful and considerate

BANGKOK The Tourism Authority of Thailand has reissued an information statement for visitors to Thailand to clarify dress and behaviour.

It reaffirmed that most mourners in the country will dress in black or white clothes out of respect and reverence for the Late King Bhumibol Adulyadej.

It is not mandatory, especially for visitors, although TAT re-emphasised that tourists should “kindly wear appropriate and respectable attire in public.”

Visitors should refrain from inappropriate or disrespectful behaviour.

The government has asked for the cooperation of entertainment venues to refrain from conducting rowdy performances. The music volume will be turned down a few notches.

Most of the traditional, religious and cultural events including MICE and weddings will take place as usual.

Festivals could be altered as a mark of respect, or the events may be dedicated to the memory of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej.

Loy Krathong festival during the full-moon night of November will take place as normal, although firework displays. entertainment including beauty contests will be omitted.

Meetings, receptions, and other related privately organised occasions held in indoors can proceed as usual.

Tourist attractions will remain open with the exception of Wat Phra Kaeo (Temple of the Emerald Buddha) and the Grand Palace, as they will be the venue of the Royal Funeral Rites.

All transport, banks, shopping areas, hospitals and other public services will be operating as usual.

Many people will be travelling from the provinces to Bangkok during the 30-day mourning period to pay their respects to the Late HM the King. This may cause some congestion in certain city districts.