Thailand's nightlife has gone quiet in the peak of the holiday season following the death of a prominent member of the Thai Royal Family. A 15-day ban on "entertainment noise" has been implemented by the Thai government in the wake of the death of HRH Princess Galyani Vadhana, the sister of King Bhumibol Adulyadej.Bars, restaurants and nightclubs have been asked not to stage any live music performances or use any sound systems until January 17. The venues are allowed to trade as normal, but without any music or entertainment. Any bar or club that contravenes the ban could be blacklisted by the authorities. The ban on music includes festivities planned for Children's Day on January 12.
Princess Galyani, who was 84 years old, passed away in the Siriraj Hospital in Bangkok in the early hours of January 3. She had been receiving treatment for cancer.
UPDATE: Everything was quiet for one night, but music is now being played in nearly all bars, albeit at a lower volume. I think the original ban was aimed at official functions, not commercial operations, and may have been misinterpreted by overzealous officials. With the music turned down, everyone saves face.
