Thailand in mourning: 5 things travellers should keep in mind

DURING Thailand's mourning period for the Queen Mother, tourists should dress modestly and avoid bright or flashy clothing, especially when visiting temples or royal sites.

Maintain respectful behaviour by keeping conversations quiet, avoiding loud celebrations, and observing moments of silence where appropriate. While tourism services are largely operational, check local updates for any adjusted schedules, as some events may be toned down or postponed. 

Dress code and behaviour

Wear modest clothing: Choose dark, subdued colors like black or white. Avoid overly bright, flashy, or revealing clothing, especially in sacred or official areas.

Be respectful: Keep conversations quiet in public spaces and be mindful of your behavior around memorials or government buildings.

Avoid loud festivities: Do not participate in loud celebrations. Entertainment venues may have restrictions, and large-scale events are being scaled back.

Observe local customs: Show respect by being quiet and attentive to signage explaining the significance of the mourning rites. 

Travel and logistics

Stay informed: Check for official updates from the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) for any changes to event schedules or site closures before your trip.

Expect adjustments: Some events, like the Vijit Chao Phraya event, have been altered to be more subdued, such as using drone displays instead of fireworks.

Confirm site access: While many major sites remain open, some, like the Grand Palace, may temporarily close for ceremonies. It's best to verify operating hours in advance.

Be understanding: Understand that the atmosphere may be more reflective than celebratory. Hotels and resorts may have somber décor.