UPDATE
''Went on a boat tour around islands of Phang Nga, did some canoeing. That was cool. Would have been nice to spend more time in Phuket/Khao Lak. Bangkok was a very different experience but also very enjoyable. Our hotel was in Sukuhmit, pretty close to train lines so it was easy to get around. Made it to HM the King's palace, took a ride on the Chao Phraya. Saw lots of army and police. There were a couple of places we wanted to check out that were blocked off or closed because of the protests. A couple of officers were killed while we were there. Hotel in Bangkok was not great.''
Original Report
SOFTWARE developer Dan Schmierer, 30, an expat who lives and works in Japan, is taking a break in Phuket and Bangkok next week with his friend, designer Kazuki Tsutsui, 34. Phuketwan asked Dan about the thinking behind their visit.
You are coming to Phuket and Bangkok in May despite the protests. Why did you decide to visit Phuket and Bangkok?
Neither of us have been to Thailand before and it seems like a great place to relax and experience some things that we can't do in Tokyo.
Did you think about changing your mind because of the red protest?
Nope.
At any stage did you contemplate changing your minds, especially after the deaths at the Bangkok protest on April 10?
We have thought about how it might affect our stay in Thailand, but it hasn't changed out minds. Obviously, we'll play it safe when we're in Bangkok and hope for the best at the airports and hotels.
Are you paying close attention to the latest events in Bangkok?
The situation has been covered in the news here in Japan, actually a Japanese journalist was killed during the clash. Our hotel in Bangkok is pretty close to where the red shirt protesters have been camping out, so it's fair to say we have been checking the news pretty regularly to see what is going on.
Do you think there is a likelihood you will change your plans?
Not unless they tell us we can't go. If the situation escalates while we are over there, then our plans might have to change.
Are you aware of the attitude of any other people in Japan, when you tell them you are visiting Phuket and Bangkok?
People are aware of what is going on over there, but I think it is pretty difficult to gauge exactly just how serious the situation is and how it might effect the average tourist. Friends have been supportive. My mum is pretty worried, though.
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I am in Pattaya having arrived at Suvarnabhumi International Airport and stayed in a hotel nearby therefore avoiding going into the city. Buses travel to Pattaya without entering the central city so it is quite easy to avoid the trouble area.
The local Thai people think anyone going into the city centre is crazy. Of course the protest could turn up anywhere and we will be relieved to leave in a couple of days, having had a great holiday. Pattaya is busy chaotic and fun. Go to the weekend night market to the south - it's amazing!
Posted by Anonymous on May 2, 2010 12:17