Bangkok under State of Emergency

More bad news for Thai tourism eventough situation is totally safe in tourism areas and State of Emergency a complete overreaction of Prime Minister.

Below however is a quick snapshot on hotel situation by a Bangkok hotelier:


Chao Phaya Hotel general manager, Andrew Wood, provides these insights just hours after a state of emergency was declared in Bangkok earlier this morning. A state of emergency followed a night of scuffles and violence between pro and anti government protestors, leaving one dead and 43 injured.



Mr Wood views the situation from a hotel perspective.

• Three groups have already cancelled l this morning mainly from the government sector but also a local MICE function and we are receiving cancellations from FIT Corporate Japanese.

• The question of whether five or more people can meet under the emergency degree will threaten the local conference market.

• Cancelled all casual staff and all overtime. Occupancy is down to 55% and dropping. It could reach 40%, if things do not improve. Normally we would anticipate 75% in September, which is a rainy season month and one of quietest in the year. Floors are to be closed to conserve energy.

• Strikes that will cut off water, electricity and transportation is going to lead to some restrictions to tourists but at present all airports are open.

• Most of Thailand remains largely unaffected...the 'hot spot' is in and around government house, which is an area to be avoided.

• The presence of military in the area will present the message that things are actually worst than they really are.

• We expect September business across the board –rooms, restaurants, conference and banqueting. The loss could be as high as Bt4 million for our Bangkok property alone.

• Skal Bangkok meeting next Tuesday is likely to be cancelled

• HRH Prince Andrew's visit to Bkk organised by the British Chamber of Commerce and evening function at the Grand Hyatt on Wednesday 3rd Sept 2008 has been cancelled, after the prince cancelled his visit.