As you probably have heard through the international media there has been a coup d’etat in Thailand. It appears that the army have decided to take power from the Prime Minister and dissolve the government. Prime Minister Taksin issued a state of emergency before the army switched off all news media in Thailand including international stations. The army commander has issued a statement to say that he is in control of the country and that a state of emergency exists however he wishes to return power to the people as quickly as possible and does not intend to hold on to power. It appears that the army have taken control of government offices and detained some people close to the Prime Minister who is currently in the USA.

Judging by the political events in Thailand over the lat few months this coup d’etat appears to be a political move by opponents of the current Prime Minister within the Thai military. There has been no bloodshed and no resistance from the people of Thailand. There are troops on the streets but there does not appear to be any threat of violence. Troops are smiling and interacting with people. People are on the streets going about there daily business. Some companies and most schools in Bangkok have closed and restaurants and night time entertainment places were asked to close early last night.

We see the situation as serious but not threatening. We cannot forecast how events will unfold today or over the next few days but at this point we do not see any strong reason for clients to cut short their travels in Thailand or to cancel travels to Thailand. However we understand that clients may wish to return early or cancel and we will make every effort to ensure departures are smooth and that there are no costs incurred for cancellations.

There is no threat against tourists. None of our clients in house have asked to leave Thailand so far and we are meeting all arrivals as normal at the airport. All hotels are open as usual and functioning normally.

In Bangkok , the airport is open and functioning normally. Shops, cafes and restaurants are open in the centre of Bangkok. There are tanks on the streets around Government House and around the TV stations and there is an army presence around the city. Outside Bangkok there has been no sign of disturbance. In Phuket, Samui, Hua Hin and all the tourist destinations it is business as normal with all services functioning as normal. In Chiang Mai everything is completely normal with all services operating and no sign any trouble. All tours are operating as normal outside Bangkok.

As we learn more of the situation we will keep you well informed.

Hamish Keith, Managing Director
Exotissimo Travel Thailand