The first I
knew that they’d finally gone ahead with the coup was 6.30 local time when I
switched on my i-pad and read the news on the BBC after an evening swim.
Going out for
something to eat around 9.30 the big shopping centres and supermarkets were
already closed.
A number of
restaurants were also closed. Some bars were open but at a subdued level – half
lighting and no music. Others were closed.
At the
restaurant where I eat my American friend – who has been here since the late
1960s – was most unhappy that none of the two satellite/cable channels he
subscribes to seem to be working. This means he’s deprived of the final of
American Idol.
The only
channel that he could get to work was the Golf Channel – I guess the Generals
need something to watch. He says that it’s the first time he’s known one of the
coups affect Pattaya – and he’s been here for a few.
Heading home
about 10.10 it seems that everything was either closed or was starting to do
so. Looking out from my 25th floor balcony at 10.30 everything looks
fairly quiet and the formerly half lit bars and bar signs are in darkness.
