Thailand soothes tourist fears

2006-09-21 15:26

Bangkok - Thailand's tourism ministry on Thursday sought to reassure holiday-makers that the kingdom remained a safe destination despite a military coup just a few days earlier.

"This transition has been totally peaceful in nature, with no incidents of violence in any form," a statement from the ministry of tourism and sports said.

"The ministry will work with offices concerned to ensure the safety and convenience of all visitors travelling in Thailand," it added.

The military seized power in a bloodless coup on Tuesday night, and some analysts feared that the sight of tanks and armed soldiers on the streets could impact on Thailand's tourism industry, only just recovering from the devastating 2004 tsunami.

But it appears that sun-seekers have not been deterred, with tour operators in Europe and Asia reporting only a handful of cancellations.

The tourism ministry said that scheduled events such as Thailand Travel Mart 2006 and the Thailand Open tennis tournament will go ahead as planned.

"All tourist destinations, facilities and services in the country remain in operation without disruption," the statement said. Domestic and international flights are operating as normal, it added.

Several countries - including Australia, Japan, China and South Korea - have advised their nationals to avoid traveling to Thailand, or to exercise caution while there.

- AFP