Thai flood update: Floodwaters recede, but beach resorts fear a drop in tourist visitors
While the cleanup process has started, the worst flooding to hit Thailand in decades is still taking a toll on some parts of the country.
Flights to and from Bangkok's flooded Don Muang airport have been diverted to the city's main international airport, Suvarnabhumi.
The Tourism Authority of Thailand reports the attractions that are now temporarily closed across the country include Safari World, Dream World, Future Park Rangsit, Central Pinklao, Central Ramindra, Central Ladprao, Fashion Island and the Mall Bang Kae.
Inundated: Water surrounds a Buddhist temple in Bangkok
In Ayutthaya, where flooding forced the closure of popular tourist attractions, waters have started to subside and officials say attractions will be reopened once cleanup is completed.
The situation in Bangkok is varied, with water declining in some parts of the city but remaining high along the west bank of the Chao Phraya riverand in the eastern areas.
Most tourist destinations in central Bangkok, as well as restaurants, bars and shops, are operating normally.
However, the Foreign and Commonwealth Office still advises Britons against all but essential travel to the capital.
The FCO said: 'There is still a large volume of flood water from the north passing through Bangkok, and to the east and west of the city, to reach the Gulf of Thailand.
'This flood water is being contained by a series of barriers, dykes and canals. Some of these defences have been breached and the authorities have put in place measures to deal with these breaches.
'We now assess that the risk! of sign ificant floods affecting central Bangkok has decreased, however the high tide period (9-15 November) still poses a risk of flooding in central Bangkok.'
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Meanwhile, the island of Phuket has been relatively unaffected by the situation in the rest of the country.
Unlike some destinations such as Ayutthaya, Phukets attractions are open for business and business is said to be booming.
Phuket airport has experienced a 40 per cent year-on-year increase in arrivals, proving Thailand is an increasingly popular destination for holidaymakers.
But, Thai news website The Nation reports some businesses on the island believe some tourists are staying away from Phuket because of the perception that the whole country has been submerged in water.
Managing director of Phuket-based Sea Bees Diving Company told The Nation: When youre far away and see these headlines, you may choose Indonesia, the Philippines or another place to spend your holiday.
People dont realise that Thailand is a big place and that these events dont affect the whole country.
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