Beat the crowds by going to post-crisis zones
Sometimes the best way to avoid crowds is to go to a place that’s only recently been hit by a crisis. For example, Thailand is usually choked with package tourists and backpackers. But after the recent airport shutdowns by protesters, the streets are appreciably quieter.
This Guardian UK article talks about the advantages of such a strategy: more vacancies in guesthouses, discounts on accommodation, and having beaches to yourself. There’s also the added satisfaction of helping the local economy recover, as our travel dollars help businesses and workers stay solvent.
Safety is an issue for crisis zones, so exercise caution by carefully checking media reports and government warnings. Then if you decide to you can handle the risks, you may be well-rewarded.
January 9th, 2009 at 3:47 pm
Thailand is the perfect place to take advantage of this concept. Most of the issues are within larger cities. You can go to an island and relax and have the whole place to yourself (and your friends). Even in the cities, safety is a smaller concern than other “problem” areas unless you’re foolish enough to actually get near the protests. Thai citizens are also very accepting of travelers and their current state: same, same but different. You’ll meet little hostility.