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Bombings dismay operators
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Sirima Eamtako, Bangkok (2010-07-30)
TWO bombing incidents in less than a week apart in Bangkok's city centre may compromise the kingdom's effort to restore confidence, say dismayed Thai operators.
"I am utterly speechless…I never thought this would happen to Thailand," said Sumate Sudasna, president of the Thailand Incentive and Convention Association, which has just launched a Thailand Offers for Business Events stimulus campaign.
Last night's bomb, which injured one, went off opposite the King Power Complex and Pullman Bangkok hotel. The incident came after Sunday's bombing, which killed one and wounded 10 in front of Big C Department Store, opposite the gutted CentralWorld Shopping Complex.
Juthaporn Rerngronasa, deputy governor of marketing for Europe, Africa, Middle East and America of the Tourism Authority of Thailand, said it was too early to gauge the impact of the two incidents but admitted there had been some enquiries.
She said the NTO had asked overseas offices to keep monitoring the impact from their respective markets. "But whether there is or will be an impact will depend on whether travel advisories are stepped up."
As of yesterday, 46 countries have maintained their advices, updated since June 30. Of the total, 25 countries post a level-two exercise caution.
Meanwhile, Accor Thailand operations director Paul Stevens said the chain had instructed its hotels in Bangkok to step up security and to be cautious of suspicious bags or packages. He reported a status quo at Pullman Bangkok King Power hotel - no panic among guests.
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