In keeping with the solemnity of the occasion, Thai authorities have asked entertainment venues to keep a low profile. They have not so far ordered pubs, clubs and cafés to shut up shop for the day. As is normal on public holidays, government, immigration and post offices and banks will be closed.
When he died at age 88 on 13 October 2016, Bhumibol Adulyadej had reigned for seven decades. The 26 October is another public holiday and will mark the cremation day of the king. The 23 October is the third public holiday and remembers the passing of another of Thailand’s favourite monarchs, King Chulalongkorn, in 1910.
12GO ASIA notes public transport options will be busy throughout Ocober with Thais travelling to Bangkok to pay their last respects and also for the cremation rites. The other extra vacation days usually entice people to take excursions and this will contribute to the scarcity of travel tickets. 12GO ASIA advises booking now before it is too late.
King Bhumibol Memorial Day public holiday on Friday
News in Asia
Friday the 13 October is one of three public holidays in Thailand over the next two weeks. King Bhumibol Memorial Day marks the first anniversary of the passing of Thailand’s revered monarch.