As we prepare to travel to Thailand, we have received the following news:

The King of Thailand, His Majesty Bhumibol Adulyadej, the world’s longest-remaining monarch and longest serving head of state, died on October 13 at the age of 88. As the nation’s central unifying figure, head of state, and spiritual leader for over 70 years, his passing is expected to merit an extended period of official national mourning of at least 100 days, with a shorter immediate period in which some businesses will close and people will be expected to wear black, gray or white clothing. Thousands of Thai nationals have congregated outside of Sririraj Hospital in Bangkok to pay their respects. Cultural sensitivities may be heightened at this time, so public speculation about the royal transition in Thailand, including comments made over social media, is discouraged. The U.S. Embassy in Bangkok has encouraged American citizens to maintain decorum during the extended period of mourning.

You will notice in our photos that we will be conforming with the dress-code out of respect for the period of mourning. 

This will be a unique time in history for our students to be visiting Thailand, one that most travelers will never experience.