Bangkok is under a government imposed state of emergency after red-clad protesters stormed the parliament compound on Wednesday, forcing some lawmakers to flee via helicopter. It was the latest -- and most provocative -- move by the anti-government demonstrators, who are trying to force Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva to dissolve parliament and force elections. The state of emergency is designed to give the army enforced powers to disperse the protesters. But it's unclear when that will happen. The protests have been going on in Bangkok for more than three weeks, and many may be considering leaving the country or cancelling their trips here. Here's a view of the reality on the ground: Without making light of the situation, so far there has been nothing to suggest the protests are putting anyone in any danger. But remember that despite having been peaceful until now, these things can always turn chaotic. Often without any warning. In much of Bangkok, the protests haven't changed daily life The portions of the Thai capital that the protesters have seized are small given the size of this enormous city. The original protest site, close to the Chao Phraya river along Rajadamnoen Road, isn't a place tourists are likely to visit, although it's within walking distance of the Khao San Road backpacker district. The airport is still open, and protesters haven't said they'll occupy it, as their yellow-shirted political opponents did in November 2008. Taxis are still readily ...
Keywords: State, of, emergency:, What, life, is, really, like, in, Bangkok, uddgallery
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