How safe is Thailand, with recent demonstrations in 2010?

by Teresa Lim
(Falls Church, VA 20043)

We are arriving at the port of Laem Chabang, Thailand two hours from Bangkok. We have contacted private tours with local operators, 6 of us will be traveling in a van instead of the cruise ship bus. The traffic is supposed to be very crowded.

How safe are we in getting back to the ship on time, which arrives at 7 AM and depart at 7 PM of same date, April 23/2011. Should we use the cruise ship shore excursions to be on safe side and also for getting back to the ship on time by 6 PM?

Answer: Hi Teresa, You're asking several questions I can't possibly answer, and a few I can. The title of question, about Thailand's safety, is simple. Thailand is relatively safe. I say relatively because you can never guarantee anything, but Bangkok these days is calm. That doesn't mean political dissatisfaction, still a major issue, has disappeared, not at all. It just means that for the time being, the government is back in control. The only place I'd still avoid is the southernmost part of the country, but you're not going there anyway.

Because things can change in an instant, If I were you I'd keep up with the travel advisories posted by the US government (travel.state.gov) since you're from the States. For the time being, there are no particular travel advisories for Thailand, but there is a warning:

"U.S. citizens traveling to Thailand should therefore exercise caution, especially in locations where Westerners congregate." So be very aware of your surroundings in crowded public places like bars, churches, discos and other attractions foreigners visit. And, keep checking because things can change quickly. There have been a few isolated terrorist acts in and around Bangkok in recent months but my many friends who live there say life goes on pretty much as usual.

On the issue of traffic, well, Bangkok traffic is legendary. Yes, you can definitely get stuck in traffic and miss your cruise. It's you and your luck. It seems to me you'd be better off using the cruise line's transportation. If they're late and you miss your cruise, you might be better protected. I suspect they won't accept any liability if you use your own transportation, so check with them first. Not to mention you'll be at the height of rush hour traffic on a Saturday...

As for what to pack on a cruise… I'm afraid that's far from my area of expertise - I'm a backpacker! I do have a great travel packing list, which is more for independent travelers but check it out. You'll probably get all sorts of good ideas from it!

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