Written by John LeFevre

Concerned that the ongoing political protests may cause significant damage to the country as a tourist destination and impact the high season that officially gets underway on September 15, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has galvanized its international network of offices and issued a fact sheet addressing the current situation as it relates to tourism.

The document, dated September 7, 2008, explains the reasons behind the recent state of emergency declaration by Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej, as well as details the areas and effects the protests are having on the country.

The document also highlights the results of a survey conducted by Assumption University’s Abac Poll of 532 foreign businessmen, investors and tourists during September 2-5. According to the results of the survey, which were published in the Bangkok Post on September 7, 59 per cent viewed the ongoing political situation as not unusual and just part of the democratic process, while 97 per cent of foreigners visiting Thailand said they would visit the country again if the turmoil ends.

The document also states: “There has been no significant disruption to life and business in the capital beyond added traffic congestion in a few areas.

“The vast majority of the city, including all the major tourist spots (including The Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Wat Arun-Temple of Dawn, and Sanam Luang – The Royal Ground), shopping centres and riverside attractions, as well as all roads and public/private transport systems are functioning normally. Bangkok’s city taxi and rail services are unaffected. All hotels and resorts in Bangkok and throughout Thailand are open for business as usual.”

The full TAT document has been posted in our Forum by Graham and can be read here: http://www.thailand-travelonline.com/thailand-forum/index.php?topic=36.0

Ed.