December 5: King Bhumibol Adulyadej's birthday
Tomorrow will be the 86th birthday of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej the Great in Thailand.
The current King of Thailand was born on December 5, 1927 and is the son of Prince Mahidol of Songkhla. Bhumibol is the ninth king of the Chakri dynasty. He was crowned king on June 9, 1946. He is now not only the longest-reigning monarch in the history of Thailand, but also the longest-serving monarch in the world.
Long live the king!
The monarch's birthday is the right time for the Thai to honor their king even more than they normally do. The king is seen as the father of the nation. His birthday is therefore all about showing respect, affection and loyalty. Many religious rituals are performed on that day. All public buildings and houses are decorated with flags, garlands, lights and his portrait. The entire Thai nation prays to bless His Royal Highness with good health, happiness and the strength to carry out his responsible duty.
Hua Hin, the royal resort town
This year, the celebration of his birthday will not take place in Bangkok, but in the seaside resort of Hua Hin, about three hours' drive from the capital. It's no secret that Hua Hin is King Bhumibol's favorite city. After his discharge in August from Siriraj Hospital in Bangkok, where the king had been staying since September 2009, he chose to move to Hua Hin and live in Klai Kang Won Palace. There he goes to the beach every day and enjoys the salty sea air and passing sailing boats with a cup of tea.
On December 5, it is also Father's Day in Thailand and all fathers are put in the spotlight.