Buzz
The Siam street, once bustling with traffic, suddenly transforms into a bustling pedestrian zone with hundreds of souvenir stalls and street food vendors.
From late last year to early this year, political unrest in Thailand, marked by frequent anti-government protests, has made many travelers hesitant to visit the Land of Smiles, especially Bangkok. Many tourists express concerns about safety during this period.
However, the protest situation has paradoxically brought more life to Bangkok, creating an atmosphere that seems lively and joyful. Travelers have the opportunity to experience things they have never seen before in the Land of Golden Temples.
Heading from the airport to the city center, you won't even be aware of any protests as everything operates normally. On the streets within the city, the atmosphere remains usual with no signs of unrest.
It's only when you reach Siam, the heart of Bangkok, that you can gauge the protest atmosphere. Normal traffic on streets like Siam and Ratchadamri (between Central World and Big C) has now turned into a pedestrian city. Anti-government protesters have blocked the road from outside Big C, extending to MBK with sandbag barriers. Many outdoor stages have been set up as forums for people to express their thoughts, feelings, and call for support.
Ratchadamri is adorned with thousands of tents right in the middle of the street. Siam Street turns into a market showcasing products for tourists like clothes, shoes, souvenirs, predominantly in the three colors of the Thai flag – red, navy blue, and white. Many T-shirts with the slogan “Shutdown Bangkok, restart Thailand” are sold, reflecting the determination to overthrow Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra's regime.
Rows of food stalls mushroom along this 'protest street' with many street food specialties of Thailand, delighting tourists. To enter this area, everyone undergoes security checks, making central Bangkok during this time not only safe but also more interesting and enjoyable. Rural people joining the city protests have the opportunity to boost tourism businesses to improve income, while tourists experience new and exciting things not previously known in Thailand.
Many locals not involved in the protests assert that foreign tourists present in Bangkok at this time are indeed fortunate because in a few months, they may never witness Siam Street or the square in front of Central World turning into a bustling pedestrian street, lively both day and night like it is now. Protest stages, sometimes taking breaks, are replaced with musical performances. Despite being in a period of political unrest, Thailand still provides a sense of safety for tourists – contrary to what the media has exaggerated in recent times.
Due to a reduced number of tourists in Bangkok this time, malls have significantly reduced prices. You can buy many items much cheaper than even during sale seasons. Security is also tightened right from the entrances, so tourists always feel safe and comfortable when shopping.
Cultural and artistic activities in Bangkok during this time are not affected by politics but are livelier. On 11/2, singer Avril Lavigne had a successful performance in front of over 12,000 spectators. From now until summer, the capital Bangkok also welcomes numerous famous artists touring here such as Eric Clapton, Korean girl group 2NE1, singer Bruno Mars, the band 30 Seconds to Mars, and the 'country music princess' Taylor Swift.
The only inconvenience when coming to Bangkok this time is the difficulty of moving to the Siam, Central World, and Big C areas. Since this area has been blocked to become a pedestrian city, the most convenient means of transportation for tourists is the sky train (BTS). If you want to catch a taxi or bus, you will have to walk outside the Big C or MBK area. Traffic jams also occur more frequently during many hours of the day. In areas with protests, the streets become dirtier, and vendors speak less English.
After a period of reduced tourism due to protests and elections, Bangkok is seeing a resurgence in tourist numbers. The capital of the Land of Smiles remains one of the world's best-serviced destinations, offering memorable experiences – from leisurely shopping, attending New Year temple ceremonies, to witnessing protests and immersing in the vibrant atmosphere of international concerts.
Some snapshots of Traveling in Bangkok during protests:
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Source: Travel guide Mytour – According to Vnexpress
MytourFebruary 18, 2014
