Thai King Bhumibol Adulyadej dies

[Hvr]

Thailand's King Bhumibol Adulyadej, the world's longest-reigning monarch, has died after a long illness, plunging his South-east Asian country of 64 million people into a period of intense mourning and uncertainty. He was 88.

Whilst not unexpected there will be some interesting times ahead for Thailand.

Definitely a time to be quiet and respectful if visiting and expect many services to be closed for mourning.

Sadly I think our idiot tourist scum will let us down.

 

[opusman]

Budgie smugglers would probably not be a good idea then.

 

[drron]

Fortunately 2 months before we are there again.

 

[MEL_Traveller]

Our thoughts are with the Thai people.

It will be interesting to see what happens. I was just there a few days ago and was told there might be restrictions on 'entertainment'... bars, clubs, and perhaps even 'fancy' restaurants (as opposed to somewhere to just get a quiet dinner). Reports from a friend departing Thailand yesterday of highly increased military presence at DMK, and exit immigration took over two hours. getting around thailand - even to and from airports might be difficult for a few days.

 

[RoMambai]

Bugger, I'm heading to BKK later today for a 3 day shopping run. I hope the malls and markets aren't shut.

Sad day for Thailand. The King was universally revered.

 

[JohnK]

Very sad day indeed. I am on way to BKK and then CNX via SIN.

Uncertainty on the horizon.

 

[MEL_Traveller]

The BBC website appears to have comprehensive reporting and updates. The UK Foreign Office has advised tourists to wear sombre clothing for example. The Thai Prime Minister has asked for vigilance in regards to security, but says that financial markets and business must go on.

Updated regularly: Thailand's King Bhumibol Adulyadej dies - BBC News

Smarttraveller advises Australian diplomatic missions may close during the mourning period and there may be disruptions to public services: http://smartraveller.gov.au/Countries/asia/south-east/pages/thailand.aspx

 

[drron]

The king certainly was revered by the Thai people.About 3 years ago we were in Bangkok on his birthday.Attended a local celebration so know how they feel.

However Aussie bogans may very well be a problem.full moon parties on 17/10 have been cancelled.No entertainment for 30 days.And that means TV and radio who are all broadcasting Royal Family news.Includes cable such as HBO.
I go here for down to earth Thai reporting-
https://twitter.com/RichardBarrow

 

[MEL_Traveller]

Perhaps this thread might serve as a useful guide to the potential impacts for tourists? I'm not sure insults are warranted or helpful.

 

[Dannyism]

Aw noo, that's terrible.

They ****ing loved that King. He was the best, loved by all. I remember the first time I saw his photos, I thought, wow, he is so young and old fashioned. Then I realised they've just been showing photos of him from the '80s for about 30 years. Damn handsome guy, loves photography too.

Another time I actually saw the Queen, she was in a motorcade passing through china town for Chinese new year in BKK in 2015. She was on her ipad mostly. King was absent.

When I was doing a lot of climbing on Tonsai in 2009-2013, I remember being told that the princess is really great with steadfast morals and a desire to do good. However the prince, who will likely get the throne, is an evil guy who will probably exile or assassinate the princess. - Mind you this was dinner table conversation after a few beers sooo...

I also have been following the politics, though I can't ever remember the names. The red shirts brother and sister pair vs the army. The rice subsidy, the corruption allegations, the exile. Interesting stuff.

Ultimately, my thoughts are with the Thai people and I mourn for their King. May he rest in peace.

 

[craven morehead]

Land there in 2 weeks time for my 10th visit. I have never seen a Monarch revered as much as the Thai King

 

[JohnK]

I respect the King but I also need to apply for my daughters visa to Australia in the next few days. My life goes on. Hope the visa office not closed.

 

[Eija]

RIP your Majesty. Currently in Bangkok. Incredible, everyone is dressed in Black today. Huge Police & Army presence for the last two weeks. But that is because of bomb threats nothing to do with the Kings death. Must have been at least 40 army personnel inside my hotel & another 20 just outside. Everything was functioning yesterday. Have not ventured out today but, will write again if anything is closed.

 

[clifford]

Yes, a very sad time for the Thai people. Unfortunately I am booked to visit BKK twice in the next week or two; pity I can't easily cancel. I really don't want to impinge on the Thais' grieving.

I am flying THAI business class and have a scheduled 13 hour layover in BKK next week. I was planning to spend a few hours in a hotel, but now I think I'll just stay at the airport in the lounge. Sounds like too much hassle at the moment with likely Immigration delays and possible ground transport issues.

I assume the all the lounges in BKK will be dry, but what about the actual TG flights?

 

[Ausbt]

However the prince, who will likely get the throne

I'm not judging you, but wouldn't your post be considered lese majeste? Wow Bang La Road's gunna be quiet for once.

 

[Dr Ralph]

RIP King Bhumibol Adulyadej.

During my 30 plus trips to Thailand I've been told by many Thais just how amazing he was. He cured everything from Malaria to AIDS!

Hopefully any of the bans (like the 30 days with no TV ban) have been lifted when I arrive in BKK in late December.

 

[Dannyism]

I'm not judging you, but wouldn't your post be considered lese majeste? Wow Bang La Road's gunna be quiet for once.

I believe it would and I apologise if it caused offence. I wouldn't dare say such a thing out loud in public in Thailand.

However, congruent with the story I was telling, I was under the impression that many felt that way about the incumbent prince, in stark contrast to the late King.

 

[Archphoto]

A Thai friend sent this to me, to let me know what is happening at the moment:

What’s Canceled, Closed and Open in Bangkok During Mourning Period

 

[drron]

Some photos from Richard Barrow that reflect the feeling for the King.Even store mannequins dressed in black-

Soi cowboy doesn't look like this usually and closed indefinitely-

The crowds awaiting the procession from the hospital to the Palace-

 

[JohnK]

Looks to be business as usual at BKK airport. Here now and you can see some sad faces but life goes on.

I have also purchased alcohol without any issue.