SONGKRAN / HOLIDAY ARRANGEMENTS

Marine parks booked out, vacancies at others

APINYA WIPATAYOTIN

Holidaymakers have been asked to stay clear of marine national parks during the long Songkran holiday unless they have a confirmed booking.

National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation chief Chalermsak Wanichsombat said the country's top marine national parks _ including Surin in Phangnga, Tarutao in Satun and Ang Thong in Surat Thani _ were fully booked.

''People can still have a good time if they switch their holiday plans and visit the mountainous national parks instead.

''We are afraid the marine national parks might face a water shortage if there are too many visitors,'' said Mr Chalermsak.

Mr Chalermsak said other national parks were ready to welcome visitors over the traditional New Year holiday.

Accommodation, including camping sites, was available at Khao Yai in Nakhon Ratchasima, Khao Chamoa-Khao Wong in Rayong and Chanthaburi, and Erawan in Kanchanaburi.

He added that an early disaster warning system was now operational in all major marine national parks, including Koh Chang in Trat.

It is an extra-long holiday weekend. Government and company offices will be closed on Friday and reopen next Wednesday. Banks and the stock market will reopen next Tuesday.

Bangkok Post

Last Updated : Tuesday April 10, 2007