Update on Bangkok protests Bangkok city attractions operating as usual

ATTA secretary-general Jumpol Chadavadh said the number of tourists booking tours to the Grand Palace and the Temple of Emerald Buddha rose to 5,900 on March 18, after falling to 4,500 on March 16 and 17.

Jumpol expects bookings to gradually climb back to the usual level, provided the protests remained peaceful, but tour routes operated by ATTA members still have to be altered to avoid the areas around protest sites.

Meanwhile, a trip by TTG Asia e-Daily to Wat Trimitr, Wat Pho, the Grand Palace, the Temple of Emerald Buddha and the Royal Park found the attractions operating as usual. There were no signs of protests nor was there extra security present.

The Temple of Golden Mountain, near the protest sites, was accessible but it was difficult to pass through to the Maha Jesdabodin Pavillion and the Brazen Palace in the temple behind it.

ATTA members have temporarily suspended the stop at Jesdabodin Park as it is located right next to the protestors' stage.

(Sources: Sirima Eamtako, Bangkok)