Thailand tourism grazed by protests

Although protest leaders have stressed they will not resort to violence, many businesses have closed, social events have been canceled, and Bangkok's normally chaotic traffic is unusually light.

Meanwhile, concerns about potential chaos have forced many foreign tourists to cancel their bookings or delay their trips. The protests are expected to cost Thailand's tourism industry some 30 million US dollars. Meanwhile, at least 31 countries and regions have issued alerts, suggesting that people avoid traveling to places where the protests will be held. Many more are expected to give similar warnings over the next few days.

Piyachit Prachuabmoh, Office Worker, said, "I am rather worried about the economy. I don't want anything to happen, because our economy is getting better. But if anything happens again the economy will go down again."

Komsan Kamthong, Businessman, said, "I'm fed up. Why do they keep on fighting? For what? Power or money?"