Last Updated: 27 April 2010

UPDATED - DEMONSTRATIONS IN THAILAND 27 APRIL 2010
This morning, the skytrain (BTS) cancelled all of its services because red-shirt protesters used tires to block the tracks at the Chidlom station.

However, the BTS resumed service one hour later at 10am after red shirt leaders agreed to clear the tracks. BTS services will operate until 8pm only. MRT operates its service as per normal.

The red shirt protesters continue their sit-in protest around Ratchaprasong intersection where traffic is blocked and access is limited to major department stores. Hotels located in Ratchaprasong are closed including Holiday Inn, Four Seasons, Hyatt Erawan and Intercontinental. Department stores in the Siam Square area are also closed.

Some red-shirt protesters are also demonstrating at Sala Daeng Intersection near the Lumpini Park and King Rama VI statute area but these are peaceful protests.

All tourist attractions around the capital are operating as normal.

Asian Connections can assure you that your clients will not be taken to the area where the protesters are based which at the moment is only near the Ratchaprasong intersection and our regular tours do not pass through this area.

Please do not hesitate to contact Asian Connections for any further information on this situation.

UPDATED - DEMONSTRATIONS IN THAILAND 24 APRIL 2010
The red shirt protesters continue their sit-in protest around Ratchaprasong intersection where traffic is blocked and access is limited to major department stores. After yesterday's visit of foreign diplomats to the rally base, the leaders of the anti-government protesters suggested they return to the negotiating table for new talks, so there are some encouraging signs.

The rally of the 'Multi Coloured Group' (anti-red shirt group) yesterday, which took place near the parliament, was peaceful.

The Multi Coloured Group will continue their rallies on a daily basis. They will gather in the morning time as well as in the late afternoon for around 2 hours on different locations in Bangkok, which will be announced in advance.

The BTS (sky train) and MRT (subway) are not operating as normal. The revised schedule is as follows:

• The BTS, all stations on the Sukhumvit Line are open but the Silom Line is still only operating between Chong Nonsi and Wongwian Yai stations. For this weekend (24th & 25th April) the operation hours will be from 6.00am - 7.00pm only.
• The MRT 'subway' is operating to all stations as per usual, except Silom Station, where the trains will not stop. Operation hours are as normal.

The InterContinental Hotel and Holiday Inn Hotel announced that they are not accepting new bookings during the period of 16th - 29th April 2010.

All tourist attractions around the capital are operating as normal.

Asia World can assure you that your clients will not be taken to areas where the protesters are based and our regular tours do not pass through these areas. We strongly advise all tourists to avoid the affected areas where there is a mass build up of protesters and to refrain from approaching large groups of people.

UPDATED - DEMONSTRATIONS IN THAILAND 23 APRIL 2010
Last night, five grenades exploded in the Silom district near Sala Daeng Sky Train Station in Bangkok, where the so called 'Multi Coloured Group' has gathered to protest against the crippling anti-government 'Red Shirt' protesters. 1 person died and around 86 people were injured in the explosions.

Today, the BTS (sky train) and MRT (subway) stations are not operating as normal. The 'sky train' is in operation today from 06.00am - 06.00pm. All stations on the Sukhumvit Line are open but the Silom Line is only operating between Chong Nonsi and Wongwian Yai stations. The 'subway' is operating between Bang Sue and Thailand Cultural Centre only.

The 'Multi Coloured Group' (anti-red shirt group) will gather near the Parliament area this afternoon from 04.00pm to 07.00pm to demonstrate against the red shirts and their continuing protests. They expect around 100,000 people to join their rally.

The red shirt protesters continue their sit-in protest around Ratchaprasong intersection where traffic is blocked and access is limited to major department stores.

Government troops deployed in Silom earlier this week, are still in place to prevent the red shirts from moving into Bangkok's financial centre.

The InterContinental Hotel and Holiday Inn Hotel announced that they are not accepting new bookings during the period of 16th - 29th April 2010.

All tourist attractions around the capital are operating as normal.

Asian Connections can assure you that your clients will not be taken to areas where the protesters are based and our regular tours do not pass through these areas. We strongly advise all tourists to avoid the affected areas where there is a mass build up of protesters and to refrain from approaching large groups of people.

Please do not hesitate to contact Asian Connections for any further information on this situation.

UPDATED - DEMONSTRATIONS IN THAILAND 20 APRIL 2010
We would like to update you on the latest developments in Bangkok regarding the ongoing anti government protests.

The red shirt protesters continue their sit-in protest around Ratchaprasong intersection where traffic is blocked and access is limited to major department stores. 4 hotels located in Ratchaprasong have announced that they will close from today, 12.00hrs, until 25th April. The hotels include Grand Hyatt Erawan, Holiday Inn, Intercontinental and Centara Grand.

Yesterday morning, troops were deployed in Silom to prevent the red shirts from moving into Bangkok’s financial centre.

All tourist attractions around the capital are operating as normal.

All BTS (sky train) and MRT (subway) stations are operating as usual.

Asian Connections can assure you that your clients will not be taken to the area where the protesters are based which at the moment is only near the Ratchaprasong intersection.

Our regular tours do not pass through this area.

Please do not hesitate to contact Asian Connections for any further information on this situation.

UPDATED - DEMONSTRATIONS IN THAILAND 16 APRIL 2010
We would like to update you on the latest developments in Bangkok regarding the ongoing anti government protests.

The red shirt protesters continue their sit-in protest at Rajaprasong intersection where traffic is blocked and access is limited to major department stores.

Three anti-government protest leaders evaded arrest by Thai security forces earlier today as the arrest warrants were attempted to be enforced.

All tourist attraction around the capital are operating as normal.

All BTS (sky train) and MRT (subway) stations are operating as usual.

Asian Connections can assure you that your clients will not be taken to the areas where the protesters are based which at the moment is only one area near the Rajaprasong intersection.

Our regular tours do not pass through this area.

Please do not hesitate to contact Asian Connections for any further information on this situation.

UPDATED - DEMONSTRATIONS IN THAILAND 10 APRIL 2010
Yesterday saw a clash between anti government protesters and soldiers who were guarding the anti government TV station which had previously been closed down. The government ordered in additional troops to control the situation and regained control of the area. Several protesters and soldiers suffered minor injuries. Today the compound is surrounded by anti government 'red shirts' but negotiations are expected to take place later today.

Four central Bangkok Department Stores near the Ratchaprasong intersection which were previously closed due to protesters blocking traffic in the area will re-open again today from 10.00am - 20.00pm.

The Hyatt Erawan hotel in the same area, reported yesterday that the hotel's security level had been escalated. Entry to the hotel is restricted to guests only, in the interest of their safety. The Chidlom BTS Skytrain system adjacent to the hotel provides direct access to the hotel.

There is no danger to foreign tourists in Bangkok and Asia World sightseeing tours are running as normal. Tourists are warned to stay away from large groups of protesters around government house though.

Please do not hesitate to contact Asian Connections for any further information on this situation.

UPDATED - DEMONSTRATIONS IN THAILAND 9 APRIL 2010
We would like to advise you of the latest developments regarding the ongoing political unrest in Bangkok.

The anti government 'red-shirts' supporters had their TV station 'PTV' closed down under the governments 'State of Emergency' powers yesterday afternoon. The protesters then travelled to the TV station in Pathum Thani’s Lat Lum Kaeo district on Friday, determined to get their satellite-based television station, back on air. There is a stand-off at the moment with police and soldiers guarding the facility.

As this will be the last chance to demonstrate en-masse before the start of Songkran (Thai New Year), the protesters have tried to block traffic in several areas which has led to traffic jams at certain times of the day.

With regards to the department stores which have been closed because of roads being blocked by the protesters, we can provide the following update:

• Central Chidlom - open as normal
• Central World - still closed
• Siam Paragon - today open from 10.00 - 18.00 hrs
• Siam Center - today open from 10.00 - 18.00 hrs
• Siam Discovery - today open from 10.00 - 18.00 hrs

Thailand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has also reiterated that the measures taken under the State of Emergency declared late Wednesday, 7 April, do not affect the life of people or their activities, nor those of foreigners residing, or visiting Thailand.

Travellers are advised to use the BTS Skytrain and MRT to avoid major roads in the tourist districts closed to traffic. Expressways are congested as drivers attempt to avoid the areas occupied by protesters resulting in transfers to the main airport taking much longer, possibly 90 minutes instead of the 35 to 40 minutes.

Both Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang airports are open and protesters have pledged they will not rally near airports.

The Asia World sightseeing tours continue as normal but more time is needed to travel between sites as roads are congested. River transport is operating normally to the sites in the Rattanakosin historical district: Wat Pho; the Grand Palace; and Wat Phra Kaeow (Temple of the Emerald Buddha).

There is no danger to tourists but it should be advised not to travel to government house or approach any large groups of protesters.

Please do not hesitate to contact Asian Connections for any further information on this situation.

UPDATED - DEMONSTRATIONS IN THAILAND 8 APRIL 2010
We would like to advise you of the latest developments regarding the ongoing political unrest in Bangkok.

With the approach of 'Songkran' (Thai New Year) when Thai people traditionally return to their villages for a family celebration, the protesters are trying to push the government into a quick reaction. At mid day on Wednesday the 'Red Shirts' broke into the Parliament building compound but left after 1 hour when the opposition leaders ordered them to disperse.

Yesterday evening (7th April) the Thai Prime Minister Mr. Abhisit, announced a 'State of Emergency' in Bangkok and nearby districts. This was caused by an escalation of the ongoing anti-government protests by the UDD ('Red Shirts') who want the Prime Minister to dissolve the Thai Government and call fresh elections.

The government was granted a court order against the demonstrators which decrees that they are breaking the law in blocking a major shopping area near Siam Square. This was ignored and the protesters are still blocking traffic. Negotiations are ongoing.

Despite the sensationalist foreign media reports, no local people or tourists have been injured in the protests and all tourism areas are safe to travel to. Asia World sightseeing tours around Bangkok are taking place as per usual. All hotels in central Bangkok are accessible with no problems but the traffic can not pass through Rajaprasong district easily. This means that the Sky-Train (BTS) is the most convenient way to travel around that area.

There is no danger to tourists but your clients should be advised not to travel to the Government House area as there are big crowds there. Airport transfers will be arranged one hour earlier due to some traffic delays. Asia World guides will advise all clients of the new pick up times.

Please do not hesitate to contact Asian Connections for any further information on this situation.

UPDATED - DEMONSTRATIONS IN THAILAND 5 APRIL 2010
The anti government 'Red Shirt' protesters have staged a demonstration which has blocked traffic around one of Bangkok's main shopping areas. The red shirt leaders have said they would remain at the intersection until the government bowed to their demand to dissolve Parliament.

For security reasons, the following department stores and shopping malls around Siam Square are now closed:

• CentralWorld
• Zen
• Big C Rajdamri
• Gaysorn Plaza
• Erawan Bangkok
• Amarin Plaza
• Siam Center
• Siam Discovery Center
• Siam Paragon.

The government has declared the 'sit-in' as un-lawful and negotiations are ongoing to remove the protesters in a peaceful manner.

All international and domestic airports in Thailand remain fully operational. Also all tourism attractions in Bangkok and in key destinations around Thailand are not affected and operate as normal.

For tourists visiting the Kingdom, it should be stressed that foreigners are not in any danger because of the on-going political conflict. However, foreigners are advised to be vigilant and avoid areas where crowds may gather.

Please do not hesitate to contact Asian Connections for any further information on this situation.

UPDATED - DEMONSTRATIONS IN THAILAND 19 MARCH 2010
The protests have been very peaceful so far but there will be another gathering of protesters from the United Front for Democracy against Dictatorship.

The UDD plans to send red shirt demonstrators on to the city streets tomorow (Saturday 20th March) to drum up support for their protest against the ruling government.

Commuters were advised to avoid Uthong Nai Road, Ratchadamnoen Avenue, roads near Government House and the Rama VIII, Pinklao and Krung Thon bridges. The good news is that some of the roads adjacent to Ratchadamnoen Avenue have been reopened to traffic as the number of demonstrators dwindled. These are not areas usually visited by tourists it must be stressed.

Police said they would reinforce checkpoints to screen demonstrators and city authorities reaffirmed that they would work together to implement strict security.

The city remains a safe destination for both leisure and business travellers. However, although this is a domestic dispute, all foreign nationals are advice to exercise caution and avoid those areas of the city where the protesters have gathered.

Asian Connections will keep you updated if there are any developments.

UPDATED - DEMONSTRATIONS IN THAILAND 17 MARCH 2010
United Front for Democracy against Dictatorship (UDD) demonstrators arrived at Government House at 4pm yesterday and performed a ritual curse on the gates. The demonstrations were peaceful though and the number of protesters has diminished.

The city remains a safe destination for both leisure and business travellers. However, although this is a domestic dispute, all foreign nationals are advice to exercise caution and avoid those areas of the city where the protesters have gathered. These are not touristic areas and in general foreigners would have to reason to be visiting at Government House or Ratchadamnern Road.

All tourist attractions in the city are also remaining open for business. Shopping malls and MICE venues are also open and operating as usual.

Asian Connections will keep you updated if there are any developments.

UPDATED - DEMONSTRATIONS IN THAILAND 15 MARCH 2010
The anti-government rallies staged by the United Front for Democracy Against Dictatorship (UDD) during March 12 – 14 have so far been peaceful although there have been some developments today.

The protest leaders have announced that they will continue their peaceful protest at the following rally sites in Bangkok.

• The main demonstration site at Ratchadamnoen Avenue
• Makkawan Rangsan Bridge near Government House
• The 11th Infantry Regiment on Phahon Yothin Road, Bangkhen

With the exception of traffic congestion and difficulty of movement around the designated rally sites, life in Bangkok and all other areas of Thailand continues as normal. Tourism attractions and activities around the city of Bangkok and in all key destinations around Thailand are not at all affected. Department stores and shopping malls in Bangkok and around Thailand are open and are operating as normal. Our Grand Palace tour could not operate as normal today due to the crowds though.

Suvarnabhumi Airport and all other international and domestic airports around Thailand are open and operating as normal.

The protester had moved to 11th Infantry Regiment this morning to wait for the answer from the Prime Minister about dissolve the House of Representatives. The Prime Minister had rejected the UDD demand on dissolve the House of Representatives by noon today, but he left the door open to consider their opinions.

The red-shirt protesters leaders announced to disperse from in front of the 11th Infantry Regiment at around 13.50 hrs and told to return to their main rally ground at the Phan Fa Bridge.

Afternoon today, A M79 grenade was fired into the compound of the First Battalion of the 1st Infantry Regiment, which had injured two soldiers. The soldiers were rushed to the Mongkut Klao Hospital and are now safe.

Please be assured that foreign tourists are not in any danger from the ongoing political conflict. However, foreigners are advised to be vigilant, particularly in the areas where crowds may gather.

The demonstrations are not taking place in areas where tourists would visit and travel to all other parts of the kingdom has not been affected. Tourism activities in all other areas continue as normal.

We are closely monitoring the situation and will keep you updated if there are any major changes.

UPDATED - DEMONSTRATIONS IN THAILAND 12 MARCH 2010
Supporters of the United Front for Democracy against Dictatorship began to spread out from their five rendezvous points in Bangkok shortly after noon today, to campaign for people to participate in their rally on Sunday.

The five rendezvous points are the King Taksin monument at Wong Wian Yai, the Lak Si democracy monument in Bang Khen, Lumpini Park, Thailand-Japan sports complex at Din Daeng, and the Bang Na intersection.

According to their plan of activities, they were to return to the gathering points in the evening before dispersing. They would regroup on Saturday morning before moving to the main rally ground at Sanam Luang and the Ratchadamnoen Avenue.

The prime minister said his secretary-general Korbsak Sabhavasu was coordinating with UDD leader Weng Tojirakarn to make sure the rally is peaceful.

Please be assured that there is no danger to tourists. We are closely monitoring the situation and will keep you updated if there are any major changes.

NEWS UPDATE - DEMONSTRATIONS IN THAILAND
The political demonstrations by the United Front for Democracy Against Dictatorship in Thailand (aka UDD or "red-shirts") are expected to start in provincial areas on 11 March 2010 and reach Bangkok on 13 March 2010. The main demonstration is expected to occur near Government House and along Ratchadamnoen Road in the Dusit district of Bangkok, but the UDD has also announced plans for demonstrations in other parts of town. As a result, traffic congestion and difficulty of movement is possible throughout Bangkok.

While UDD leadership has pledged that the demonstrations will be peaceful, the possibility of violence cannot be ruled out and the government has invoked the Internal Security Act (ISA), which enable the police and military expanded powers to maintain security. The Foreign Minister also gave assurances that all officials would proceed in accordance with the rule of law and with the utmost restraints.

The government is doing its best to provide the utmost security to all residents in Bangkok and Thailand, including the diplomatic corps and other foreigners.

In order to avoid clients missing their flight during the UDD rally on 12 – 15 March, Asia World will move the pick-up time to be one hour earlier. Therefore, the pick-up time for International flights will be 4 hours before the departure time, and 3 hours for Domestic flights. We will inform all clients accordingly.

• Mr.Ron : +66 81 554 6570
• Mr.Drak : +66 86 619 5665

We apologize for any inconvenience that may be caused, but be rest assured that Asia World will keep all of our agents and in-house clients updated as to the situation in Bangkok.