PSA: You won't be able to purchase any alcohol in Thailand this weekend by law

Visiting Thailand without enjoying a few cheeky poolside cocktails should be considered criminal, but this weekend the distribution and consumption of alcohol in the country is banned.

Businesses caught selling booze could face jail time and some hefty fines.

The alcohol ban is going down all because of Thailand's upcoming election – no alcohol will be available for purchase anywhere for 24 hours from 6pm on March 23 until 6pm on March 24.

"The ban on the sale of alcohol is mandatory by law," Phuket Provincial Police Deputy Commander Col Sermpan Sirikong told The Phuket News. "Police will enforce it [the] same as we do for the five Buddhist religious days throughout the year on which the sale of alcohol is also banned by law,"

“I believe that foreign tourists will understand that this is law [and] must be followed. When people travel to a foreign country, we must comply with the laws of that country."

Anyone who is caught selling or distributing alcohol over the weekend will face imprisonment not exceeding six months or a fine not exceeding $445 (10,000 baht) or both, in accordance with Section 147 of the Organic Act on the Election Commission, B.E. 2018

How will the Thailand alcohol ban affect my holiday?

Basically, you'll be prohibited from consuming alcohol over the 24 hours at all bars and eating establishments. Alcohol shops will also be closed during this period.

If you've booked activities such as bar crawls or booze cruises, check with your tour operator, because chances are they won't be running.

Seriously desperate for a drink? The only exception to the rule is that some hotels allow guests to drink within their hotel rooms – ask staff if this is the case.