Travel and Tourism Unaffected by Unrest in Bangkok
The political situation in Thailand has been a cause for concern for travellers lately. The year of 2010 saw a fair bit of political turmoil. Is Bangkok still safe for travel? The answer is YES. Despite these occassional instances, the flow of travel into Thailand continued unabashed (even stronger than 2009, by some measures) and foreign travellers remained unaffected by the turbulence.
Even so, it is always a good idea that travellers inform themselves about the political situation in Thailand (and especially the capital, Bangkok). Check your government's travel advisories to find out what events and areas have been flagged. Also check your trusted news and travel sources to get a more local perspective on the political situation in Bangkok and how it affects travel.
Photo: Red Shirt protestors in Bangkok, Sept 2010
The situation in 2010
Several major political events in 2010 put Thailand in the world news. In April 2010 a State of Emergency decree was issued in 23 provinces (including Bangkok) as a response to anti-government 'red shirt' protests. This decree allowed for government measures such as imposing a curfew, censoring the media, and quashing the gathering of 5 or more people. On 19 May 2010 a political protest in Bangkok ended violently when Thai security forces confronted 'red shirt' protestors.
On 22 December 2010 the Emergency decree was lifted, which ended emergency law, but the Internal Security Act is still in place.
Did this affect tourism in Thailand?
Hardly. Although travel warnings and alerts have been issued, no government has maintained 'do not travel' advice or issued a ban of travel to Thailand. Despite the political turmoil, tourism has been resilient in Thailand and Bangkok and even shows growth upon arrivals in 2009. In April 2010, the Bangkok airport received 146,088 passengers, up from 145,209 in 2009.
On the popular tourism island of Phuket, the tides of tourism stayed high. Occupancy rates remained sunny and booming. “No hotel reservations have been canceled,” reported Somboon Jirayus, president of Phuket Tourist Association.
The international travel industry is optimistic that Thailand will show its resilience as a destination. Various forms of tourism measurement have remained buoyant over the past two years despite the political turmoil and the global economic downturn. In 2011, Thailand is poised for tourism growth.
Photo: Democracy Monument in Bangkok, Thailand
Tips for safe travel in Bangkok, Thailand
General safety measures for being in Thailand's capital of Bangkok are the same as it is for any part of the world. No matter where in the world you are, it is always a good idea to take the following precautions (especially in places with recent instances of civil unrest):
1) Always carry some form of identification with you. Don't forget to register with your embassy in Thailand, either online or in person.
2) Be aware and exercise higher caution when close to public and government buildings.
3) Follow events in the local and international news, and check with your country's travel advisories regularly.
4) Avoid areas where demonstrators are gathering and security forces are moving.
5) Be sure to have comprehensive medical and travel insurance policies in place
Photo: A Red Shirt Protestor in Bangkok, Thailand
The Bottom Line – Come see for yourself!
Like many countries, Thailand has a long history of political tension and turmoil. Nonetheless it has been able to offer itself as a premier and in-demand destination to international tourists that gains strength every year. The events of 2010 were confined to two districts of Bangkok, and the majority of travelers were able to enjoy Thailand without even knowing about the political unrest.
Thailand's doors are open to travelers – come and see for yourself!
