date : 12 aug 08
venue : nationwide

Throughout Thailand, public buildings are decorated to honour Her Majesty Queen Sirikit on her birthday.

The most splendid are to be seen in Bangkok, particularly along Ratchadamnoen Avenue and in the area around the Grand Palace, where both government offices and streets are garlanded with coloured lights. Royalty in Thailand is a serious affair.

Failing to show respect for the Queen will do nothing to endear you to ordinary Thai people. Pictures of the royal couple grace many a mantelpiece and to dishonour them in word or deed is an activity bordering on the illegal. Otherwise, this is an opportunity to see the kind of light display that the Thais are so good at turning on for special (read royal) occasions.

Enjoy and Have Fun!