A lot of people have been asking me about the current situation in Bangkok as news from the city is making headlines around the world. The protestors who occupied the commercial center of Bangkok for numerous weeks have been removed, but flare ups continue not only there but in cities such as Khon Kaen and Udon Thani in Northeast Thailand. Like in any civil upheaval there are a number of sides to this conflict which is a complex one stretching across an intricate political landscape that when coupled with a long standing monarchy maybe one of the most unique and complex in current times.
Things in Phitsanulok have been unaffected and day to day life continues as normal. Although this afternoon there was visibly more interest in the happenings as TVs in shops and restaurants were crowded with on lookers.
Staying up to date can be at times difficult do to as breaking stories must be translated from Thai to English but the NY Times and BBC are providing good coverage devoid of the rumors, conspiracies and sensationalism that is rife in Thai news.
Three stories of particular interest are the BBC's How Did Thailand Come To This? which looks at the road leading up to the current events. A look at the King's role and future in Thailand from the NY Times, Thailand's King Sees His Influence Fading and finally a reporter's personal look at a fascinating city gone terribly awry, In Bangkok, Gunfire Outside a Reporter's Window also from the NY Times.
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