Thailand updates for travellers

Thailand updates for travellers
By Kate Webster


Travellers to Thailand can still enjoy the best the country has to offer, with many attractions and events open for business.

The people of Thailand are continuing with the period of remembrance of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej, and reminiscing the many things he achieved and worked for his people and the development of the nation throughout his 70-year-reign

Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) assures travellers that the Thai people remain as warm and hospitable as ever, with cultural attractions and facilities for tourists all in place. Furthermore, most cultural, traditional and MICE events will still go on with some adjustments for appropriateness.  Otherwise, it is business as usual.

Visitors to Thailand during this time are encouraged to experience the diverse variety of the Kingdom’s attractions and destinations, and also learn about His Majesty King’s achievements, and visit his Royal Initiative Projects which have helped the people to thrive and preserve the richness of the country; such as, the Doi Tung Development Project in Chiang Rai; Royal Agricultural Station Ang Khang, Chiang Mai, and Chang Hua Man Royal Initiative Project, Phetchaburi.

TAT wishes to thank friends from all over the world for standing by Thailand during this period.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) would like to advise the following:

  • Most Thai people will be dressed in black or white clothing as a display of the reverence to our king and as part of Thai culture, but this is not mandatory, especially for visitors.
  • Polite and respectable behavior and attire would be highly appreciated. If tourists would like to take part in showing respect to our king, they can pin black ribbons on their clothes. The ribbons will be available at the immigration counter at Suvarnabhumi Airport or from many spots in the country.
  • The government has asked for cooperation from entertainment venues to refrain from conducting any boisterous performances for 30 days, from 14 October 2016.
  • Meetings, receptions and other related occasions taking place within the premises can be held as usual, but may be adjusted as a mark of respect for the mourning period.
  • Most of the traditional, religious, cultural events and festivals; such as Loi Krathong, Christmas, New Year, Chinese New Year, Songkran, including MICE events and weddings will continue as planned, although the celebrations may be adjusted as a mark of respect to His Majesty King.
  • Tourist attractions are open as usual 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 (will re-open on 1 November 2016). All transport, banks, shopping areas, restaurants, theme parks and other public services will be operating as usual.
  • We would like to recommend that any visitors with travel or tourism plans reconfirm with agents and check local media regularly as well as follow the advice of the local authorities for announcements and updates.
  • Many people will be travelling from the provinces to Bangkok during the mourning period to pay their respects to the King. This may cause some congestion in certain parts of the city as well as to commuters. Visitors planning travel and trips should stay updated via the local media about road closures or delays.
  • Due to the commuting of the people during this time, the safety and security measures for all Thais and visitors is a major priority of the related authorities.
  • For any enquiries, please contact our TAT domestic and overseas offices or the TAT Call Centre Tel.: 1672.

 

Thailand’s tourism events and activities updates as of 22 October 2016

Although Thai people are in a period of remembrance of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej, Thailand welcomes all tourists to the kingdom. It is business as usual with respect and appropriateness.

  • The Department of Fine Arts, Ministry of Culture, would like to invite both Thai and foreign tourists to visit national museums and historical parks throughout Thailand with FREE ADMISSION from now until 31 January 2017.
  • A number of events and festivals will be going ahead as usual. Some celebrations will be scaled back as a mark of respect for the King. The TAT recommends visitors to check with booking and tour agents as well as monitor the local media and government announcements for updates.

Here is the updated list of events and festivals:

October

EventProvinceDates
Creative ThailandBangkok19-23 October 2016

 

November

EventProvinceDates
The Phuket Cycling Race by ThanyapuraPhuket13 November 2016
·        Loi Krathong Festival (details to be followed)Nationwide12-14 November 2016
·        Loi Krathong Yi Peng FestivalChiang Mai12-15 November 2016
2018 World Cup qualifier

(Thailand VS Australia)

Bangkok15 November 2016
Laguna Phuket TriathlonPhuket20 November 2016
·        Bridge of the River Kwai FestivalKanchanaburi25 November 2016
·        Iron Man 70.3 ThailandPhuket27 November 2016
·        Monkey PartyLopburi27 November 2016
·        Starwood Run to GivePhuket27 November 2016

 

December

EventVenueDates
King’s Jet Ski CupPattaya1-4 December 2016
King’s Cup Regatta Phuket3-10 December 2016
Flower Show Suan Luang Rama IX Park Bangkok1-12 December 2016
Nimmanhaemin Art and Design PromenadeChiang Mai16 December 2016
Asia Superyacht RendezvousPhuket16-18 December 2016

Email the Travel Weekly team at traveldesk@travelweekly.com.au

tat thailand tourism authority thailand

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