Map of Bangkok Showing Where the Internal Security Act is Enforced
If you are coming to Bangkok on a holiday during the first half of August then you should be aware that the Thai Government has decided to impose the Internal Security Act (ISA) in three districts of Bangkok from Thursday 1st August to Saturday 10th August 2013. These districts are Dusit, Phra Nakhon and Pomprap Satruphai (see map below). This is because the deliberation of the controversial amnesty bill on Wednesday 7th August may result in large protests around Parliament and Government House. The first protesters are expected to arrive on Sunday 4th August. Possibly the day before. I will add more details to this page as and when they are known. You can also follow me on Twitter on @RichardBarrow for the latest updates.
The red markers are places that you should avoid
There is no immediate threat to tourists. However, it is not advisable to visit any of the protest sites like these two dudes did. Shortly after I took this picture the riot police moved forward with tear gas and water cannons. The main protests are expected to be around Parliament and Government House. Nearby tourist attractions include Vimanmek Teak Mansion, Dusit Zoo, The Ananda Samakhom Throne Hall and The Marble Temple. I would advise that all tourists avoid this area while the ISA is being invoked. However, even though the Grand Palace, The Reclining Buddha and The Golden Mount, as well as some museums are in Phra Nakhon District, there is no reason that there will be any danger during this period. The only reason that this district was included is that the northern border is near Government House. The main shopping districts of Siam Square and Ratchaprasong and also Chinatown are far from the expected protest sites.
Follow me on Twitter on @RichardBarrow for the latest updates to all the protests in Bangkok as well as breaking news.
Thanks Richard, I have a funeral to attend pretty much smack dab in the middle of all that on the 4th. =\