Reminder: July 10-11, Banks & immigration closed - MAYBE no alcohol

[Gaybutton]

There are 2 major Buddhist holidays, Thursday, July 10 and Friday, July 11. Banks and government offices, including immigration, will be closed.

Both days are listed as no alcohol days, but with changing rules in place, I'm not so sure. I suggest asking the bars before those days and have them tell you their plans - and then, if you don't mind, tell us whether the bars will be open, but serving only non-alcoholic drinks, open and serving alcohol, or will be closed. Please let us know what you find out.

[Jun]

There was at least one no alcohol day on my "winter" holiday. I had a look around Jomtien & all the bars were closed.
I also don't recall seeing a noticeable increase in boys on the apps, although only had a quick look as I had already made arrangements.

Now have the rules for "tourist zones" changed yet, or is it still talk ?

[Gaybutton]

Now have the rules for "tourist zones" changed yet, or is it still talk ?

I don't know. I've seen the usual conflicting reports, so I suppose the bars have the latest rules - which of course can change at any moment.

My guess is during those two days either the bars will be closed or will be open, but serving non alcoholic drinks. That's why I'm hoping someone going to the bars will find out what the bars are saying and will let us know.

[Gaybutton]

If it's ok for the Phuket bars, my guess is it will be the same for Pattaya. However I still have neither seen or heard any news about the Pattaya bars.
__________________________________________________

Phuket Bars Cleared to Serve Alcohol on Buddhist Holidays

July 8, 2025

In a relief for both tourists and locals, Phuket's bars and entertainment venues have been granted permission to serve alcohol on Asarnha Bucha Day and other major Buddhist holidays. This follows confirmation from the island's top police official amidst earlier confusion.

Earlier this week, a bar in Koh Kaew faced uncertainty after being told to close on Asarnha Bucha Day, due to its location outside a designated tourist zone. Seeking clarity, The Phuket News consulted Major General Sinlert Sukhum, the Phuket Provincial Police Chief, who swiftly resolved the issue.

"All licensed service establishments in Phuket may sell alcohol on Asarnha Bucha Day," affirmed Maj. Gen. Sinlert. This policy extends to all five major Buddhist holidays: Makha Bucha Day, Visakha Bucha Day, Asarnha Bucha Day, Wan Khao Pansa, and Wan Ork Pansa. This is underpinned by an official announcement from the suspended Prime Minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, published in the Royal Gazette in May.

Further clarification was issued in June, stating that hotels, airport terminals, and permitted entertainment venues may serve alcohol. However, general businesses must adhere to Thailand’s Alcoholic Beverage Control Act, permitting sales only between 11am–2pm and 5pm–midnight.

Maj. Gen. Sinlert stated, "I re-read the announcements to ensure accuracy and have informed all police superintendents in Phuket."

The exemptions to the alcohol ban on Buddhist holidays encompass:

* Sales at international airport passenger terminals
* Licensed service establishments under the Service Establishment Act
* Venues recognised as tourist attractions by the Ministry of Public Health
* Hotels registered under the Hotel Act
* Sites hosting significant national or international events announced by authorities

Despite the relaxed regulations, Maj. Gen. Sinlert emphasised the importance of responsibility. "Sellers must implement measures for public peace, safety, and restrict access for children and youth," he noted, referencing Section 4 of the announcement.

This development is poised to assist the local tourism sector, ensuring visitors can enjoy their stay without disruption while preserving the spirit of the holidays.

https://www.gaybuttonthai.com/posting.p ... 94#preview