Travellers urged to delay trips to Thailand or exercise caution

The Hong Kong government has not issued travel warnings in relation to Thailand, but has advised people to be cautious about travelling there and even postpone trips if possible because of the state of emergency declared in the capital, Bangkok.

Many local travel agencies have scrapped tours to Thailand, a move they said meant huge losses for them.

A Security Bureau spokesman advised Hongkongers heading for Thailand to keep up to date on developments there and consider changing or postponing travel plans. 'Those who are already in Thailand should attend to their personal safety and avoid demonstrations or large gatherings of people,' he said yesterday.

Thai Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej imposed a state of emergency in Bangkok after violent clashes between government supporters and anti-government protesters early on Tuesday.

The bureau spokesman said: 'We understand that the city is generally calm except for some areas', mainly near Government House. 'In deciding whether or not to issue a travel warning, the Security Bureau will consider the risks to the personal safety of Hong Kong residents in the light of the latest situation.'

Eight groups on Hong Thai Travel package tours flew to Thailand yesterday, while other customers who had bought tours but decided they did not want to go were given refunds. Wing On Travel, EGL Tours and Morning Star all cancelled tours to the country.