Thai trips continue after regional earthquake
The travel industry has rallied around those parts of southeast Asia affected by the March 28 earthquake that has reportedly left at least 3,000 people dead, with most of the fatalities being in Myanmar but some deaths being reported in Thailand as well.
Intrepid Travel has launched an emergency appeal through its non-profit The Intrepid Foundation, following the earthquake, which caused widespread damage in Myanmar and some parts of Thailand. The tour operator is promising that all funds raised will go directly towards providing medical support and aid to communities through Intrepid’s local NGO partner in Myanmar. The Intrepid Foundation will match all donations up to AUD$100,000.
The death toll has risen to over 3,000, with almost all of the fatalities in Myanmar. Homes, businesses and schools there have been destroyed, and there are roads that are blocked and communications down. Donations to Intrepid’s appeal will provide medical support and aid to impacted communities in Myanmar.
“The impact of the earthquake in Myanmar is severe. After years of ongoing civil war in the region, this earthquake proves devastating for the people and communities who were already facing a humanitarian crisis. Although Intrepid does not currently run trips in Myanmar, the country continues to hold a special place in our heart. I appeal to the global travelling community – who may have been to Myanmar in the past or who have simply visited the region. Your support at these times can bring critical aid to the thousands of families at a time they need it the most,” said Biheng Zhang, general manager of The Intrepid Foundation.
The worst damage was in Myanmar and Intrepid’s trips in neighbouring Thailand continue to run. Intrepid reports all its staff and customers in Thailand are safe and accounted for.
Intrepid actually halted all trips to Myanmar in 2020 and does not currently operate in the country, citing human rights abuses. It says any future decision to resume operation in Myanmar will be based on the safety of travellers, staff and local communities.
To donate to recovery efforts, visit The Intrepid Foundation’s Myanmar Earthquake Appeal: https://www.theintrepidfoundation.org/t/myanmar-earthquake-appeal.
Thailand-based Smiling Albino said it continues to send people on Thai trips.
“We currently have guests in various parts of Southeast Asia, including Bangkok and the beaches in the south, and all of their trips are continuing as usual. All of our guides and staff are safe and sound. We do not anticipate any interruptions with logistics in any of our key centres, and there is no damage or effects in Southern Thailand around the beaches and islands of Phuket, Krabi, Ko Yao Noi and Phang Nga Bay,” the company said. “All is safe and sound on the ground.”
ICS Travel said from Bangkok that major Thailand tourist attractions – including the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Wat Arun, and the Floating Markets – didn’t report any damage and remain open. As well, Icon Siam and other shopping centers are operating as usual.
Bangkok’s BTS Skytrain and MRT Subway halted services for safety assessments after the earthquake but service resumed March 29, with most lines operating normally.
There have been no major reports of road closures in Bangkok.
There were no widespread movement restrictions in Bangkok at the moment as of Monday. However, certain areas near damaged buildings may have restricted access for safety reasons.
No sites in northern or southern Thailand were closed, and all are operating normally, ICS Travel continued.
EXO Travel also said from Bangkok that the current situation in Thailand is “stable. The minimal impacts on operations have subsided and everything is running smoothly and normal. All airports, transport services and tourist sites are fully operational, and our teams on the ground are continuing to deliver services without any disruption.
“We remain in close contact with the relevant authorities and will provide further updates if needed. In the meantime, please continue to promote and book travel to Thailand with full confidence.”
However, EXO Travel added that Myanmar faces an unprecedented disaster. “We have already mobilized support on the ground and are urgently seeking donations,” it added.
Thailand has seen a welcome development these past few days, with the opening of Aman Resorts’ Aman Nai Lert Bangkok.
The urban sanctuary, situated within the lush seclusion of Nai Lert Park, offers a serene escape from the Thai capital. The 36-storey property offers 52 suites and 24 branded residences, alongside a global Aman Club, 1,500-square-metre Aman Spa and Wellness center, and several venues for dining and socializing.
The hotel is Aman’s second property in Thailand, joining Amanpuri – the original Aman – 37 years since inception.
Aman adds it is committed to supporting those impacted by the recent earthquake in the region, donating a portion of the proceeds from every stay in April to charities assisting those affected.
