Thailand enters a year of mourning after the death of its queen mother: here’s what travelers should know, according to an expert

The country of Thailand has entered a year-long period of nationwide mourning out of respect for the recent passing of the country’s Queen Mother, Her Majesty Queen Sirikit.

The Queen Mother died last week at the age of 93 after years of battling illness. Reuters reported. Following his death, flags will fly at half-mast for 30 days at government offices, state-owned enterprises and educational institutions, and government officials have been asked to wear mourning attire for a year. according to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT).

Tourism in Thailand was expected to continue as normal, but the public was even “encouraged to wear black or muted colors for 90 days as a gesture of remembrance and respect.” Similarly, visitors have been asked to “dress and behave respectfully”, especially when visiting a temple, royal site or government site.

“During this period of national mourning, Thailand remains open and fully operational. All tourist attractions, transportation services, restaurants, shops and events continue as usual,” the TAT said in a statement. “However, public activities, entertainment events and commercial operations are encouraged to exercise discretion and adjust their formats appropriately in reflection of the national mourning atmosphere.”

Travelers will have to make some itinerary adjustments in the coming days. The Grand Palace and Temple of the Emerald Buddha in Bangkok, for example, will remain closed until November 8 during a royal lying-in-state ceremony. depending on the site. Candle lighting ceremonies are also planned across the country.

Grant Ekelund, InsideAsia Tours expert and Travel + Leisure A member of A-List Travel Advisors, he told T+L that there are still plenty of activities and historic sites to visit. He said Wat Pho, a notable temple in Bangkok, is still open to visitors.

“The most important thing we need to know is that Thailand is open and remains a wonderful place to visit right now,” Ekelund said. “Anyone thinking about rescheduling or postponing a visit has nothing to worry about.”

Ekelund echoed the need to dress respectfully.

“It is appreciated if people dress modestly and in muted colors when visiting the temples or in central Bangkok near any of the ceremonies,” he said.

Thailand, recognized as Destination of the Year 2025 by T+L, has been home to several new flights, including United Airlines, which recently began flying from San Francisco and Los Angeles to Bangkok with a stopover in Hong Kong.