Thailand is under the spell of a takeover of power. The military has sent the current government home and now runs the country. The editors of Thailandblog receive many questions every day from concerned tourists about the current situation in Thailand. In this article you can read the most frequently asked questions and answers.
Why did the military take over power in Thailand?
There have been tensions between pro- and anti-government protesters for some time. This has led to riots and attacks in recent months. There have been deaths and injuries. Not among tourists, but among innocent Thai citizens. Because there was no prospect of a solution, the military took over power. They say they want to prevent further damage and casualties.
What do tourists notice about the military coup in Thailand?
Military personnel are stationed at strategic points, mainly in Bangkok. The soldiers must prevent demonstrations and disturbances and protect the civilians. A curfew has also been imposed from midnight to 24.00 am. All shops, catering establishments, banks, government buildings, etc. will then close and everyone must stay indoors.
What are the consequences of the curfew for tourists?
Really just that you can't go out after midnight. Tourists are allowed to travel to and from the airports by taxi. There are thousands of taxis with a special permit, which are allowed to transport tourists. You can also go to the hospital or a doctor during curfew when necessary.
How long will the curfew last?
That is not clear at the moment. As soon as there are relaxations or changes, we will report this.
Are the airports open during curfew?
Yes, all airports in Thailand are and will remain open. The curfew does not apply to people entering and leaving the country. Make sure you have your passport and travel documents at hand. You may have to show them along the way.
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has set up a 'help desk' at Suvarnabhumi International Airport Bangkok to inform and assist travelers. Additional vehicles are deployed to transport tourists to their hotel. Shuttle buses between Suvarnabhumi Airport and Don Mueang Airport will run as normal and outside of curfew.
Are all tourist attractions and entertainment venues open?
All tourist attractions in Bangkok and the rest of Thailand are open as normal. Shopping centers and markets are also open, but close earlier due to the curfew. This also applies to bars and discotheques.
Is it safe for tourists in Thailand at the moment?
Yes, there is no cause for concern. According to many readers of Thailand blog, it is now safer in Thailand than before the coup. However, tourists must adhere to the travel advice of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs: Thailand travel advice
It is also advisable to register at the Dutch embassy in Bangkok. She can keep you informed of further developments and possible risks: Register at the NL embassy
Can I still cancel my trip to Thailand?
Read a previous article for this question: www.thailandblog.nl/BACKGROUND/reis-thailand-kosteloos-cannulate/
Is my travel insurance valid if I go to Thailand now?
Read a previous article for this question: www.thailandblog.nl/background/travel-insurance-coverage-thailand/
How do I stay informed about the news about the situation in Thailand?
By following Thailandblog through our website, newsletter or Twitter. You can use this tag: coup in thailand
It is also wise to regularly check the website of the Dutch embassy in Bangkok or follow it on Twitter.
Important telephone numbers in Thailand:
- TAT Call Center: 1672
- Tourist Police Call Centre: 1155
- Traffic Police Call Center: 1197
- BMTA (city buses and public transport) Call Center: 1348
- BTS Skytrain Hotline: +66 (0) 2617 6000
- MRT Metro Customer Relations Center: +66 (0) 2624 5200
- SRT (Train Connection) Call Center: 1690
- Transport Co Ltd (inter-provincial bus service) Call Centre: 1490
- AOT (Suvarnabhumi Airport) Call Centre: 1722
- Suvarnabhumi Airport Operation Center (temporary): +66 (0) 2132 9950 or 2
- Don Mueang Airport Call Centre: +66 (0) 2535 3861, (0) 2535 3863
- Thai Airways International Call Centre: +66 (0) 2356 1111
- Bangkok Airways Call Centre: 1771
- Nok Air Call Center: 1318
- Thai AirAsia Call Centre: +66 (0) 2515 9999
All things considered, there is not much going on here (Pattaya eo) in daily life, everyone just stirs and eats, goes to work and to school. Only the curfew is noticeable, but that doesn't bother the working people because they have to go to bed anyway. Moreover, it really won't take that long according to the insiders.
If you are here be careful in your communication about the coup. Many Thais do not understand all that criticism from abroad, in fact, nor can they get very angry about it. Their perception is that the army is coming to clean up the mess that politics has caused. For example, on social media here you see a lot of pictures of the current ruler in a Superman suit and civilians giving flowers and food and drink to the soldiers. This criticism is regarded here as interference in internal affairs that foreigners apparently do not understand. If you want to know something, ask open questions, don't get into a discussion………