Rally hurts tourism

BANGKOK, 23 March 2010 (NNT) – The private sector has urged the anti-government demonstrators currently staging a mass rally in the capital to end their activity as soon as possible before it affects tourism during Songkran holidays in April.

President of the Thai Travel Agents Association, Mr Charoen Wongananont, said the number of reservations for tour packages and accommodation has continued to drop since the rally took place. He is concerned that if the rally is extended, it will put this year’s tourism under threat.

Many families have decided to cancel their trips as most are worried about the school admission schedule which has been postponed many times due to the ongoing rally. The application and examination dates are still undecided.

Meanwhile, president of the Thai Hotels Association Prakit Chinamornphong admitted that the protest has become a big problem for the tourism sector. If it is prolonged beyond 23 March, it will most likely affect the foreigners travelling during Songkran holidays. The room reservation rate in Bangkok has been declining constantly. Early checkouts have been reported as the tourists are unsure about the situation.