TSUNAMI IN ASIA: FOR many tourists planning to travel to the countries affected by the tsunami the decision on whether to go ahead with their plans is a difficult one.

Governments in the affected destinations have said tourists can best support local people by travelling to their country, while staying away from the worst hit areas.

Most tour operators have cancelled holidays to Sri Lanka's eastern, southern and south west coasts and to the affected resorts and towns along Thailand's west coast until January 31.

Most are offering alternative destinations or refunds to holidaymakers affected.

In Trowbridge independent agent Howard Travel has managed to make all necessary alternative arrangements for clients but the branch in Church Walk was inundated with calls in the week following the disaster.

Owner Howard Edgington said: "We have had queries from everyone with holidays booked around the area because people's geography isn't always that good.

"For example Thailand is a big country and much of it hasn't been touched."

People who are concerned about their travel arrangements are asked to contact their individual travel companies.