Things are back to normal in Bangkok after the peaceful coup d'etat on September 19. City residents are back at work, banks have re-opened, and its business as usual in the Thai capital. Meanwhile, it was announced that all military and police forces are united, and have pledged their allegiance to H.M. the King, as well as a commitment to the election of a democratic government. Until then, an interim Prime Minister and government is expected to be appointed in the next two weeks. A credible poll also showed that the majority of Thai people (more than 80%) support the coup and current happenings. So, if you have any plans to visit Bangkok soon, you can do so with confidence. The sun is shining on this beautiful land, literally and figuratively speaking. In this section we hope to answer all your questions...
Q: Is it safe to come to Thailand following the coup?
A: Here are the facts on the ground. Since the coup took place on September 19 there has been not one report of related violence, civil unrest or mass protest. This has been a peaceful coup and army leaders have assured the country they intend it to remain so. An interim Prime Minister and government will be appointed in the next two weeks, and a general election is expected to be called within a year from now. In the meantime the military has guaranteed law and order.
Q: Can I expect there to be any delays on arriving in Thailand?
A: Travel in and out of the country has not been affected and is continuing as normal. All domestic and international flights, airline services and airport transfers are operating normally in Bangkok and throughout the country. All roads are open and there are no reports of the military stopping cars.
Q: What about the new airport, will that still be opening on time?
The opening of Bangkok's new Suvarnabhumi International Airport will go ahead as scheduled, at 03:00 on Thursday, September 28. As planned, all domestic and international flights will operate from this airport from this date.
Q: Is the country running as normal and are tourist sites, resorts and hotels still open for business?
A: Yes. Here in Bangkok and across the country it's business as usual. People are back at work. Banks and businesses are conducting business as usual. Hotels are open, as are tourist sites and malls. Away from Bangkok, tourists are still enjoying the beaches, temples and all the wonderful attractions Thailand offers.
Q: Do the army have support for their actions?
A: In a word, yes. A survey for the Bangkok Post found that in Bangkok 82% of people support the coup, while in the provinces - where support for the former prime minister is traditionally strongest - support is even stronger, with 86% behind the army's actions. Many Thais seem relieved that the political turmoil which has plagued the country for months looks to be at an end, and in Bangkok, the mood on the street is optimistic.
Q: As a tourist, is there any chance I could experience any hassle from the army?
A: Away from government house there is very little army presence, and contrary to some early reports there are no curfews or restrictions of movement in place. Tourists are allowed to travel anywhere in the country in groups of any size and are not being stopped, questioned or harrassed in any way. In fact, having your photo taken next to a tank and the soldiers seems to be the city's hottest photo opportunity right now.
Q: Will I be welcomed by Thai people at this fragile time?
A: As always, yes. Have no doubt, you will be welcomed with Thai people's legendary hospitality and wide smiles. The country's economy relies hugely on its lucrative tourist industry, so rest assured, the locals will appreciate you coming.
Q: What is going to happen now?
A: The Council for Democratic Reform (CDR), formed by the leaders of all military and police forces, has expressed its allegiance to Thailand's King Bumibol Adulyadej, and a commitment towards restoring a transparent democracy. An interim Prime Minister and government will be appointed in the next two weeks, until a national democratic election can be organised (and which is expected to happen within a year). |
