TOURISM Authority of Thailand (TAT) recently advised tourists to cancel their trip to Bangkok but encouraged them to travel in other parts of Thailand instead as the current turmoil in the kingdom’s capital is still unresolved. “It should be stressed that foreigners have not been targeted in the ongoing political conflict.” TAT said in a statement. “Visitors and tourists are advised to be vigilant, follow news developments, [and] exercise extra caution.”

The tourism authority added that visitors should “avoid areas near the rally site and where demonstrators gather.”

For some time now, red shirt protesters have gathered their forces in Bangkok’s central business district, paralyzing some business operations. The red shirt demonstrators demand the Abhisit administration to step down and allow the return of the deposed Thaksin Shinawatra to reclaim office.

The tourism authority insisted that despite the reported violent protests, much of Thailand’s major tourist destinations are unaffected and are safe for travel.

On its part, Thailand’s tourist board has also urged tour operators from around the world to keep sending their travel customers to other places in Thailand that are not affected by the political crisis.

It is said that Phuket, Samui, Hua Hin, Krabi, and Chiang Mai are safe to visit because they are far from Bangkok.

These places receive many visitors from Europe and United States.