TRAVEL ALERT FOR THAILAND

UNCLAS STATE 128101 SIPDIS E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: CASC ASEC TH SUBJECT: TRAVEL ALERT FOR THAILAND ¶1. The State Department alerts U.S. citizens that the recent large-scale political demonstrations in Thailand disrupted airport services and sparked isolated incidents of violence. Bangkok's international and domestic airports, Suvarnabhumi International Airport and Don Muang Airport, are gradually reopening and reinstating flights. While the political demonstrations that closed the airports have ceased, political instability in Thailand remains, and renewed demonstrations with consequent impact on services affecting Americans are possible. This supersedes the Travel Alert for Thailand issued December 2, 2008, and expires December 15, 2008. ¶2. Americans who plan to travel to or transit Bangkok should monitor local media and contact airlines for the latest information regarding airport operations as normal operations resume. Americans will also find useful information on U.S. Embassy Bangkok's website at bangkok.usembassy.gov. ¶3. American citizens are reminded that even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly escalate into violence. American citizens are therefore urged to avoid such gatherings and to exercise caution within the vicinity of any demonstrations. ¶4. For the latest security information, Americans living or traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department's Bureau of Consular Affairs Internet web site at http://travel.state.gov, where the current Worldwide Caution, Travel Alerts, Travel Warnings, and health- information resources can be found. Up-to-date information on security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or, for callers in other areas, by calling a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). ¶5. American citizens traveling or residing in Thailand are encouraged to register with the Department of State at https://travelregistration.state.gov/ibrs/ui/ or with the U.S. Embassy. The Embassy is located at 95 Wireless Road in Bangkok. The Embassy website can be visited at http://bangkok.usembassy.gov/embassy/wwc/rece nt.htm. The American Citizen Services Unit of the U.S. Embassy can be reached by phone at 66-2-205-4049 and by e-mail at ACSBKK@State.gov. The after-hours emergency telephone number is 66-2-205-4000. ¶6. Minimize considered. RICE