Tips on Thailand as nation mourns
If you’re going to Thailand anytime soon, expect to find a nation deep in mourning over the loss of its beloved King Bhumibol Adulyadej, who ruled for seven decades. He died Oct. 13 at age 88. Travelers should be sensitive to the 30 days of public mourning and 100 days of royal funeral observances, during which the king’s body will be on display at the Grand Palace in Bangkok. In guidelines posted online last week, the Tourism Authority of Thailand asked travelers to refrain from “boisterous” partying and “inappropriate or disrespectful behavior.” Bangkok’s tourist attractions as well as shops, public transit and banks are open, except for Wat Phra Kaeo, or Temple of the Emerald Buddha, and the Grand Palace, where the king will lie in state starting Friday. During the 30 days of mourning, full-moon beach parties popular with tourists have been canceled. Tourist activities such as snorkeling, scuba and kayaking at the country’s southern beaches continue. Info: www.lat.ms/thai landmourning