Image: GuffIf you're seeking some sun in Thailand this weekend, we've got some bad news for you.
Tourists in Thailand will be banned from buying any alcohol while in the country due to the upcoming election.
And they're serious about enforcing it too, with anyone who ignores the ban facing jail time as well as a fine.
Although before you go cancelling any future trips to the seaside paradise, the ban will only last 24 hours, from 6pm on March 23 until 6pm on March 24.
The reason for the closure of booze shops is the Thailand elections which are happening on March 24, with polls closing at 5pm.
Phuket Provincial Police Deputy Commander Col Sermpan Sirikong told The Phuket News: “The ban on the sale of alcohol is mandatory by law.
“Police will enforce it that same as we do for the five Buddhist religious days throughout the year.
“I believe that foreign tourists will understand that this is law must be followed.”
Anyone caught breaking the law can face up to six months in prison and a fine of up to 10,000 baht (€278).
Some holiday-makers in Thailand have already taken to social media to complain.
One wrote: “Local friend told me leading to the Thai General Election this Sun, there will be an alcohol ban from Sat 6pm to Sun 6pm … there goes my Sat night drinking plans!!”
Another said: “So in Thailand when they have elections no alcohol is sold as long as the elections are going which is a weekend long … I haven’t had a drink since Friday. 6pm needs to get here quickly.”
Alcohol was also banned for 24 hours last weekend ahead of the elections from the 16th to the 17th of March.
What does this mean for your holiday?
If you are in Thailand this weekend, you will be unable to drink at bars or eating establishments for the duration of the 24 hour booze ban.
You will also not be able to buy any alcohol at shops or off-licenses during this period.
Popular activities such as booze cruise and bar crawls are also likely to be suspended, and you should check before booking.
The only place guests will still be permitted to drink is within their hotel rooms, with hotels sometimes exempt from the ban.
Thailand previously banned any drinking on popular booze cruises around the islands, with alcohol only allowed to be consumed on land.
Many tourists head to the islands for the iconic Full Moon parties, attracting thousands every year for all-night drinking and raving.
Smoking and vaping is also banned on most beaches to crack down on littering.
