Is Bangkok Dangerous?

Many people are writing to ask me if Bangkok is dangerous at this point.

That’s a big – YES.

Should you continue with your plans to come to Bangkok during 2008? At this point I’d say no, just cancel plans, it’s too dangerous. If you’re going to lose your life savings – then up to you. Bangkok isn’t a playground without danger lately and most say it will get worse as PAD has upped the ante with a takeover of the other Bangkok Airport – Don Muang as of midnight last night. Bangkok airports are dangerous now.

Maybe later the train station and bus stations will be affected too? Whose to say? Anything can happen at this point in Bangkok as it gets more and more dangerous.

Bangkok isn’t dangerous in the sense that you’re going to be sought-out as a specific target for pro- or anti-government protestors (PAD) but, the possibility of being in the wrong place at a dangerous time does exist.

Bangkok is the capital of Thailand and as such this is where demonstrations are held between groups that wish to sway the government or replace the government as is the present movement’s goal.

Is being in Bangkok dangerous for those of you passing through on the train or buses? I’d still have to say – yes, right now – it’s a bit dangerous. Maybe Chiang Mai is dangerous too. A pro-government group there pulled a radio station owner out of his car and executed him – presumably for allowing anti-government talk on his station. Chiang Mai was dangerous for him.

The chance of being caught in cross-fire or a stampede if the military or police are forced to take action isn’t anything you probably want to experience.

Bangkok is dangerous through 2008 as far as I can see. Cancel your plans through December, wait and see if January is going to be any better.

For a current state of the country – see the ultimate Thailand Guide – Thai Black Book – your guide to staying safe in Thailand

Thai Black Book information site- >