Travel: Bangkok shuts down

As the Thai government declares much of Bangkok a no go zone for protesters and threatens the use of live ammunition if they do not disperse, the news that a senior army officer, a general who was sympathetic to the protesters has died of a gunshot wound to the head has raised the prospect of yet more disturbances.

Hotels are reporting occupancy of about 30% - usually at this time of year they would be around 70%. Airlines are making various arrangements for travellers who wish to change their plans ranging from free date changes to free change of destination (subject to payment of any difference in fares).

The Thai government has dismissed the offer of a ceasefire from the Red Shirt protesters after a series of government suggestions for compromise were turned down.

As more and more countries warn against travel to BKK, the situation is becoming increasingly confused. Outside the parts of BKK where the protesters have, in effect, taken over the city, reports from residents and visitors are that all is calm and that, outside Bangkok - in Chang Mai, Phuket and other areas, it's situation normal in the land of smiles.

Even so, the Government is preparing for trouble and it wants to be sure that the only people on the streets as matters come to a head are those who choose to be there.

As a result, the whole of this week has been declared a public holiday in Bangkok (but not the rest of the country). Many businesses have already closed down for the week and are hoping that their premises will not be affected by any action that may take place while they are away.