Bangkok tourism still normal, but Sunday large disruption expected

Thailand’s army says it will increase the number of troops in the capital on standby to 10,000 ahead of Sunday’s election that anti-government protesters say they will disrupt as part of their campaign to overthrow Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra.

The government’s decision to press ahead with the February 2 election has inflamed tensions in the capital, Bangkok, where the protesters have blockaded main intersections and forced many ministries to close their doors this month.

Destination Asia released this update on today’s security tourism situation in Bangkok: The blockade of the core downtown protest area from MBK to Siam Paragon to Central World to the Rajaprasong intersection to Central Chidlom still remains in place. Additional road blockages may occur at other locations as the core group of protestors moves around the city to the other protest sites during the day. Please note that sporadic incidents and out breaks of violence may occur without warning, so we again emphasize that all visitors should stay clear of these blocked intersections and areas of demonstrations, especially in the evening.

In the lead up to the planned elections that are scheduled for this Sunday 2nd February, the protestors have announced that large demonstration activity has been planned for Sunday in order to try to disrupt the voting. While we hope that these protests will remain peaceful, we strongly advise that visitors should avoid any electoral polling stations over the coming weekend. Information on the planned daily marches/demonstrations and polling locations can be obtained from a Destination Asia representative/guide or via a hotel concierge so in order to avoid these areas. In addition visitors should pay attention to local news and media reports for additional information and details and should exercise caution if in the vicinity of any large gatherings, be alert and be aware of your surroundings.

Bangkok continues to function at a near normal level with most businesses and offices continuing to operate, and people are able to move around the city freely. The Shopping Malls in the affected areas of the city also remain open for business, however most advised that they have implemented earlier closing times. The public transport systems including the BTS Skytrain, the MRT Subway and the Airport Rail Link continue to operate as scheduled, as do the rail services and bus links from Bangkok to the provinces. Pick up times from the city center hotels for transfers to the airport remain at 4 hours prior to flight departure, in case of any road blockages or diversions.