Political Unrest

I find it interesting how much of this situation is affecting the rest of the country. The protesters are absolutely crippling this nation and the economy which is heavily dependent on tourism. The problem is that this will affect the tourist industry for at least the next 6 months and maybe even longer. In speaking with the teachers who were hear for the last coup in 2006, it does not appear that I am in any danger. It would seem that this does not really affect Westerners. We simply continue on with our daily lives as if nothing is happening.

I also think its interesting that these protesters are allowed to overtake the airports and no one is really doing anything about it. Despite what the news may say, most of them are rather peaceful. But hidden in the peaceful protesters are the instigators with guns and violence on their mind. If you see them, the protesters have music playing and they are dancing like its one big party. I believe most of them are simply puppets and paid by the rich to be there for numbers. When something bad happens, the poor who are being paid are the one's who get hurt and so it looks bad for the government.

Today, I started to think of the long-term effects this may have on me. Right now, the only thing I can think of is my trip back home in April. It is possible that, even that far off, countries will not want to fly to Bangkok and therefore my flights or flight schedule could be changed or even cancelled. Its crazy that a flight 5 months away could be affected by this incident. I hope there are no changes, but its a distinct possibility that there will be changes.

In my opinion, the protests are more annoying than anything else. However, I would like to reiterate that I am safe and would have to search for danger in order to be in trouble.

Aaron