ME
NU
NU
On previous Media Profile "work-away"Work Aways trips, I’ve explored the streets of Spain, Portugal, and Italy. But last November, I decided to push my boundaries, trading historically rich European landmarks for my first-ever trip to Asia in Thailand.
Thailand is one of the most travelled cities in the world, celebrated for its emerald landscapes, street food symphonies, and neon-soaked nightlife. However, I showed up at a unique moment in history where the government’s vision for the country shifted from "party destination," to a somber, sacred tribute.
On October 24, 2025, Queen Sirikit, of the Thai Royal Family passed away. The nation began a year-long mourning period in her honour. While monarchies elsewhere are often debated or even ridiculed, the Thai Royal Family occupies a sacred space in the public’s heart. The Queen was more than a figurehead; she was a humanitarian who spearheaded the rehabilitation of provinces devastated by the 2004 tsunami, and advocated for interfaith coexistence within the nation. To many, she was also a timeless fashion icon.
To honor her, the government hit the brakes on the country's usual exuberance. This meant the cancellation of major festivals and a noticeable "dimming" of the nightlife. In Bangkok, bars were asked to lower the volume and close early. Even at Rajadamnern Stadium (the world’s first Muay Thai venue), signs reminded fans that cheering was welcome, but should be tempered to honour the mourning period.
The fascinating part was how voluntary it all felt. On a night out in Bangkok, I opted to visit a popular rooftop bar called Tichuca. However, iIt closed its doors by 11 p.m. out of respect; yet, directly across the road, Octave Rooftop Bar exercised its normal hours. It was a patchwork of personal and corporate choices.
You couldn't miss the signs of mourning. From the moment I touched down at the airport, I was greeted with a sea of memoriams. Digital ads on ATMs, cashier tills, and highway billboards were replaced with tributes. Outside the MBK Center, I watched crowds gather, cameras ready, just to snap a pic of the Queen’s portrait on the giant LED screens. Hotel lobbies and malls were transformed with art installations draped in black and white cloth, often accompanied by condolence books for the public to sign.
This shift even filtered into the business of travel. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) encouraged agencies to pivot. Instead of "bombastic" nightlife and crowded clubs, the focus shifted to "Serene Thailand" featuring quiet sunsets, hushed temples, and reflective beauty. It wasn't the Thailand I expected, but seeing a nation united in such deep, quiet reverence was perhaps more adventurous than any party could have been.