Thailand open for business despite martial law
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Thailand’s tourism authorities have moved to reassure tourists following the declaration of martial law in the country.
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) issued a statement today (20 May 2014) confirming that tourists are still able to visit all parts of the country, including Bangkok, with no curfews or restrictions having been put in place. It also reiterated the Thai army’s statement that the latest development “is not a coup”.
“[The TAT] is closely monitoring the situation and would like to inform tourists and the tourism industry that all concerned public and private agencies will exercise utmost efforts to ensure tourists’ convenience,” the tourism board said in a statement. “All public transport and tourist attractions, including airports, tourist sites and shopping malls, are currently open and operating as normal.”
Meanwhile, Thai Airways has also confirmed that its flight schedules have not been impacted by the martial law.
“Passengers are reassured that they will be well cared for under all circumstances. THAI is prepared to provide regular services to passengers travelling on all flights,” the national carrier said.
Thailand’s army declared martial law across the whole of Thailand on Tuesday morning. The decision, which came as a surprise to many, follows months of anti-government protests on the streets on Bangkok.
But despite the TAT’s assurances, the country’s tourism industry is likely to be severely impacted by the declaration of martial law. Already this year Bangkok’s hotel occupancy has fallen more than 30%, while THAI posted a net loss of THB2.62 billion (US$80.4 million) for the first three months of 2014, a result the airline said was “greatly impacted” by the protests.
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