Down but not out in Bangkok

Bangkok, Thailand – Despite the problematic flooding in Bangkok over the last few weeks, foreign film makers continue to show confidence in Thailand's locations and production services sector by filming in provincial destinations unaffected by the floods. Suvarnabhumi Airport, Thailand's main international and domestic gateway remains open and is operating normally. Bangkok's second airport, Don Meaung Airport has closed but the two domestic airlines operating from there have moved to Suvarnabhumi and are operating on schedule. The main commercial and financial center of Bangkok remains unobstructed by the flooding and is expected to remain dry. Popular filming locations in the central provinces such as Kanchanaburi, Pattaya and Hua Hin have not been affected by floods. Southern provinces also not affected by flooding include Phuket, Krabi, Sarathani, Ko Samui, Hat Yai, Phang-Nga and Ko Chang. Filmmakers are also taking advantage of the cool clear weather to film in the northern provinces of Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai and Sukothai. "At present, we have about 8 or 9 productions filming or getting ready to start production," said Wanasiri Morakul, Director of the Department of Tourism's Thailand Film Office. "We know that many international film makers are presently in pre-production for 2012 shoots and we want to assure you, Bangkok will bounce back very quickly from this tragic situation. Please don't count us down and out - we are now and will be in the future, open for your filming business."