The demonstrations in Bangkok have been peaceful although the mobilisation and gathering of demonstrators in different parts of the city today may have disrupted traffic at certain times.
Tourists are advised to check travel route and traffic situation as well as avoid areas where crowds may gather. This is because there may be traffic disruptions or delays and thus causing inconvenience.
Life in Bangkok and all other areas of Thailand continues as per normal. Tourist attractions and activities as well as businesses in Bangkok and other Thai cities are not at all affected, and continue as usual.
Thailand’s main gateway, Suvarnabhumi International Airport, in Bangkok and all other international and domestic airports throughout the country are operating as per normal. Transportation to and from Suvarnabhumi and Don Muang Airports into central Bangkok as well as into tourist destinations southeast and southwest of Bangkok such as Pattaya, Hua Hin, Ko Samet and Ko Chang are operating as per normal.
As a precautionary step to ensure order in Bangkok, the Thai Cabinet has approved the use of the Internal Security Act in three districts – Dusit, Phra Nakhon and Pom Prap Sattru Phai or areas surrounding the Government House and Parliament – until 30 November 2013.
In addition, the Ministry of Interior has authorised provincial governors to invoke the Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Act, where and when necessary, also as a precautionary measure to ensure law and order.
Both laws do not prohibit nor obstruct peaceful demonstration held within the bounds of the law, but they enable security agencies – police, military and civilian – to effectively prevent and mitigate, as much as possible, undue disruption or impact on the safety of the general public.
The Tourism Authority of Thailand is providing information and assistance to tourists from 08.00 – 20.00 hrs. through the TAT Contact Center 1672. Tourists may also contact TAT offices in Thailand and overseas for assistance.
