Free trip to Grand Palace for Phuketians in mourning

PHUKET: Phuketians wishing to pay their respects to His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej can now avail themselves of a free trip to the Grand Palace in Bangkok.

“The Ministry of Interior has made arrangements for people to visit the Grand Palace from 9am-4pm every day,” said Phuket Governor Chokchai Dejamornthan.

“Therefore, we plan to take people from Phuket to Bangkok four times – November 6 and 25, and December 14 and January 4. On each trip, we can take up to 750 people. To use the service, you can register at the local municipality where you live.”

As the trips are organized by individual municipalities, details of departure time and place can be obtained directly from the municipality offices.

The governor is urging people to strictly follow the dress code set out by the office of the Prime Minister, which stipulates that mourners should wear black clothes and shoes. However, if someone wishes to dress according to their religious beliefs, they are permitted to do so.

For women, skirts should be below the knees. No alcohol, weapons or drugs are allowed, and people are advised not to carry too many valuables.

“The most important thing is that those who undertake the journey must have sincere intentions of paying respect to the late King,” said Governor Chokchai.

— Chutharat Plerin