As some of you may know, I'm living in Bangkok now, teaching college prep classes. Thailand is currently in a widespread state of mourning over the death of its beloved king last week. He reigned for 70 years and was seen as a great unifier and father figure, and his death shook the country, causing a one-month ban on gratuitous entertainment and a one-year official mourning period. Here is a quick breakdown of what to expect in the coming days and months if you visit Thailand:
1. No live music for 1 month (up to Nov. 13). Bars and restaurants are still playing the radio and have a jovial atmosphere, but pretty much all concerts are cancelled.
2. Festivals will probably be low-key or cancelled until Nov. 13, and possibly up to a year from now. The infamously wild-'n'-crazy monthly Full Moon Party has been cancelled for October, but will probably be on in November again. Allegedly, many strip clubs will be closed, but they will probably open soon, and this is not really something I keep close tabs on. I've heard mixed things about the availability of alcohol, but Thailand generally has rules about what time of day alcohol can be purchased, so I don't think it should have a huge impact on things.
3. A lot of people will be wearing black, but not everyone. I live in an expat-heavy neighborhood, and maybe half the people I run into are wearing black shirts, but this is probably different in more heavily Thai areas. As a tourist, people probably won't be angry at you if you don't wear black, but try to dress in a respectful way and avoid bright, happy colors.
4. Most clubs, bars, stores, malls, spas, etc. are open, but the excitement will be toned down for the month, and possibly for longer. If you have your eye on a particular club, and you want to visit before November 13, give them a call to make sure they're open.
5. Things are safe for now, but Thailand has had recent political terror attacks in tourist spots around the South of the country, and although things have been stable the past couple of years, they could deteriorate. There hasn't been any sign of unrest yet, but on the day of the king's death, the government put their safety watch on red alert. For some reason, blogs that pander to tourists claim that this means it is actually safer to visit now, because security is so high. This seems like a strange thing to say. I wouldn't say anyone needs to delay their plans over safety issues--cities all over the world are experiencing terrorism, gun violence, and disease all the time these days--but I would keep an eye on the news and make sure to get traveler's health insurance.
That's all! Public transit is running smoothly, and at least in Bangkok, the city is still buzzing with life. Remember that it is illegal in Thailand to criticize or threaten the royal family, and it will also upset people who are in mourning, so be careful and respectful.
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