'Bunga' jalanan

Seems like demonstrators are not the only group of people taking to the streets lately. 

Recently, I noticed a significant increase in the number of 'pelacur' lining the dark streets along the periphery of Lumpini Park and some dark alleys around the neighborhood. These 'bunga jalanan' will come out and 'bloom' when the park's gate is closed, every night. 

I thought that it was just me, but a casual chit chat with another long time Bangkok resident confirmed my suspicion/obervation. He also provide an interesting 'insight' into the whole phenomenon.

According to him, the increase in the number of 'pelacur' on the street is an indicator that the current Thai economy isn't doing well. It is apparent that the current political turmoil is actually driving tourists away from Thailand, thus depriving these 'pelacur' of their customers and in the end, forcing them to go to the streets. 

Hmm...

Tourism is big business in Thailand. A decline in tourist numbers is definitely a grave problem for many Thais. And with several countries issuing 'warnings' to their nationals to stay away from Thai at the moment, situations are getting more dire. 

With no eminent solution to the current turmoil (both parties turned down offers to bring the issues to the discussion table) and the army reluctant to take sides, this turmoil is set to continue on for some time.

The girls of Patpong knows this too well. 

And, they've started to take matters into their own hands.

Political differences aside, life, as usual must go on....