“It Was Not Me, It Was the Earth”: Tourists Recall Chaos as Myanmar Quake Shakes Bangkok

• A massive 7.7-magnitude earthquake in Myanmar sent shockwaves through Bangkok, causing panic.
• Skyscrapers swayed, public transit shut down, and tourists scrambled for safety.
• Despite the fear, some visitors are determined to continue their travels in Thailand.

How did tourists react to the unexpected tremors?

The powerful earthquake that struck Myanmar on Friday sent ripples of panic through Bangkok, leaving tourists in shock. In Thailand’s bustling capital, buildings trembled, rooftop pools overflowed, and people rushed for safety. Ten people lost their lives, while countless others experienced moments of fear and confusion.

French tourist Augustin Gus, 23, was caught off guard while shopping when the ground beneath him began to move. “I thought it was me… but it was not me,” he recalled, describing the chaos as people screamed and ran. Similarly, Maltese traveler Cristina Mangion initially believed she was dizzy from the heat before realizing her hotel room was shaking.

For those in high-rise buildings, the experience was even more unsettling. A business traveler from the Solomon Islands, who was on the 21st floor, described a disorganized evacuation: “There were no procedures in place. Everyone was confused—I just wanted to get out.”

How are tourists coping after the quake?

Despite the terrifying experience, some travelers are choosing to carry on with their plans. Mangion, now exploring the famous Chatuchak market, believes supporting local businesses is the best way to help. “I feel bad for what happened, but I won’t let it ruin my trip,” she said.

Others, like Frenchman Gilles Franke, 59, take a philosophical approach. A frequent visitor to Thailand, he remained calm amid the crisis. “When it’s your time, it’s your time,” he shrugged. “You can die crossing the road—you can die anytime.”

While Myanmar continues to grapple with devastating loss, Bangkok is slowly recovering from the chaos. For those who experienced the quake firsthand, it’s a moment they’ll never forget—whether they choose to run from it or embrace it as part of their journey.