Meanwhile, Michael Turtle (through his blog, Time Travel Turtle) published an interesting trend that is currently ongoing in Thailand. In the generation of selfies and in the time of coup, this trend is pretty predictable. There is no stopping both tourists and locals to find joy in the unfortunate. This trend deals with taking photos or selfies with the military.
Photo op with the military (from Michael Turtle of Time Travel Turtle)
#HandsomeSoldiers even trended (Photo from Richard Barrow)
The question as to until when the coup will last is something that remains to be unanswered for now. Reports from various international news organizations, however, point out that reform and reconciliation, including the election that has been called upon, may take up to 15 months. An interim government is expected to be set by August or September. While the 12mn to 4am curfew has been imposed, it was first removed in areas such as in Phuket, Koh Samui, and Pattaya.
In June 13, the curfew in Bangkok has also been lifted, which means that the endless nights of partying in the city have returned to normalcy. If you are traveling to Thailand, however, remember that there are still things that are banned, such as the three-finger Hunger Games salute and any expressions against the coup.
Maya Bay. I bet it isn’t as crowded now
Karon Beach. Curfew has been lifted in Phuket
Amidst the political turmoil in the country, traveling to Thailand, specifically in Bangkok, is still encouraged. After all, this is a time wherein airfare and accommodations are cheaper and the city is not as crowded. It will give you better opportunity to explore what it has to offer. Even the touts, I supposed, will be less. A Thai vacation at this point will not only allow you to discover their rich culture but will also be helpful for locals, especially for those who are earning because of tourism.
Get drunk in Khao San
Get wild in Patpong
Adore the city lights
Discover local culture
To sum things up, here’s a better way of looking at the situation: prior to the May 22nd declaration of coup in Thailand, the city has been in constant turmoil. Even during my visit in January, activities of both opposition and support to the government were being planned in key areas. Through the months, bloody protests were mounted in the streets. With that, the junta can be seen as a necessary evil – it may not be entirely positive, but it is what the situation required. It is a way of regulating a condition which would have been worse in the absence of military intervention. Amidst everything that is happening, the City of Angels needs you and other vacationers now more than ever.
Bangkok: City of Angels
* If you have plans of visiting Bangkok and are on a budget, stay in a hostel. This article will help you find a good hostel: Finding a Good Hostel for Your Next Travel
* Read this article to know where you can watch the World Cup in Manila: Sky Cable: Watch the FIFA World Cup 2014 in HD
