* We advise you to exercise a high degree of caution because of the high threat of terrorist attack. We continue to receive reports that terrorists may be planning attacks against a range of targets, including tourist areas and other places frequented by foreigners.

* On 30 January 2007, two small explosions occurred at the Rama Gardens Hotel and the Daily News, both in Bangkok. A series of bombs exploded in various locations in Bangkok on 31 December 2006, killing three and injuring over 30 others, including six foreigners. Further attacks cannot be ruled out.

* There is uncertainty over the political situation following a military takeover of the Government on 19 September 2006. Martial law remains in place in parts of the country.

* You should avoid demonstrations, political rallies, and concentrations of military personnel. You should monitor the media, and follow any instructions issued by local authorities.

* We strongly advise you to reconsider your need to travel at this time to the southern provinces of Yala, Pattani, Narathiwat and Songkhla or overland to and from the Malaysian border through these provinces, due to high levels of ongoing violence in these regions, including terrorist attacks.

Thailand tells Canberra its bombing warning overstated

BANGKOK, March 9 (TNA) - Thai Deputy Foreign Minister Sawanit Kongsiri on Friday said that the ministry had informed the Australian government that the situation in Thailand had not worsened to such a level that it was necessary to warn Australian residents and visitors to Thailand -- tourists and businesspersons -- of possible bombings and other violence here.

The Australian Foreign Ministry recently issued a travel warning to Australians in Thailand to beware of possible bomb attacks by southern insurgents in the country.

Speaking before attending a security meeting chaired by Prime Minister Surayud Chulanont, Mr. Sawanit said he might bring up the issue for discussion at the meeting where the ongoing southern unrest would be put on high agenda.

He said the ministry had already explained to Canberra that the situation in Thailand was not as bad as suggested in its warning.

"Canberra responded that it has a duty to warn its people of possible dangers," Mr. Sawanit said. If it fails to do that and the unfavourable incident really happens," he explained, "it may have to take the blame. So, it needs to give a warning first.

"What we must do is to clarify the situation and tell Canberra that such warnings will affect us," Mr. Sawanit said, especially if nothing happens.

Canberra said it had received the information from Thailand's National Intelligence Office, he said.

TNA

admin Wrote:"What we must do is to clarify the situation and tell Canberra that such warnings will affect us," Mr. Sawanit said, especially if nothing happens.

Canberra said it had received the information from Thailand's National Intelligence Office, he said.  

What situation does Khun Sawanit need to clarify? That the situation is not as bad as the TNI reported or the TNI's information is incorrect or both.

I would stay well away from Nana Plaza.

Security is in the hands of guys on $2 a day.

Motorcycles parked inside are rarely inspected, if ever.

There is only one narrow entrance and that is the only means of escape and the layout is like a fish bowl.

It's a pity tourists don't know this!