India’s favourite tourist destination may be under martial law, but travel agents in the city say there haven’t been a significant number of cancellations to Thailand.
“This year, many people postponed their summer vacations due to the elections, but in the last 10 days we’ve had a large number of bookings to Thailand,” said a representative from MakeMyTrip.com
Some travellers have re-arranged their trips to avoid Bangkok and stay longer in other parts such as Phuket and Pattaya, she said, adding that the company was keeping a close watch on the advisories issued by various countries as well as working with Thailand’s tourism department to monitor the situation.
Semi-retired businessman Gowtham Sethiya is not apprehensive at all. “I have a booked a trip in June with my wife and we’re planning to go. In fact, it may be somewhat of an adventure for us!” he said.
There has been a dip in the number of enquiries and bookings to Thailand, but no cancellations as of now, said Tushar Jain, managing partner, Roundtrip.in
“Some people with fixed plans are wondering whether to go or to postpone their trips and there is some apprehension, especially from those travelling with families. Others, who would have gone to Thailand, are now considering Malaysia, Bali or Sri Lanka. However, some others are still going ahead,” he said.
Thomas Cook reported continuing significant interest from customers for Thailand, but said politically active regions were being avoided. “We have not witnessed any significant dip in inquiries,” said Shibani Phadkar, senior vice-president, products and operations.
Leela Tummala, who is flying out with her husband Saturday night, was somewhat apprehensive. “We are going to Phuket, Pattaya and finally Bangkok before returning,” she said.
On Thursday, the Indian Embassy in Bangkok advised Indians in the Thailand to take “abundant precautions”, avoid moving about post curfew hours and avoid areas where demonstrations are likely to take place. Several countries including U.S. and Australia have issued advisories asking travellers to stay alert, exercise caution and avoid non-essential visits to the country.
