UK Foreign travel advice updated for Thailand

The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) advise against all but essential travel to the provinces of Pattani, Yala, Narathiwat and Songkhla on the Thai-Malaysia border. On 10 April 2014 the Australian authorities indicated that extremists may be planning to target westerners in the southern border provinces. See Terrorism

The FCO advise against all travel to the Preah Vihear (Khaoi Pra Viharn in Thai) temple area and the Ta Krabey/Ta Moan temple area located on the Thai-Cambodian border due to the presence of troops in the area and the risk of outbreaks of fighting. See Cambodian border

On 22 May the Chief of the Royal Thai Army announced that the military had taken control of government. Martial law is in place and provides an enabling framework for the Royal Thai Army to take action it deems necessary to enforce law and order. Instructions can change rapidly. As a result there is an increased number of Thai soldiers in Bangkok and neighbouring provinces. You should allow extra time for journeys, including to Bangkok airports. An information desk is available at Bangkok International Airport.

A curfew was imposed on 22 May. It was lifted in all parts of the country on 13 June.

The Chief of the Royal Thai Army has said that he intends to assure the safety of all foreigners in Thailand. A number of media outlets have been taken off air and there is a risk that this could extend to the internet. The military media channels are continuing to broadcast. As the situation is evolving you should monitor local news and social media for developments.

It is illegal to criticise the coup and you should be wary of making political statements in public. Some anti-coup demonstrations are taking place in Bangkok and some other cities. These could become violent. You should exercise extreme caution and remain alert to the situation. If you’re in any doubt about your safety, stay in your accommodation. You should avoid all protests sites, political gatherings, demonstrations and marches.

Before travelling to Thailand check with your insurance provider that they will continue to cover for claims arising from the current situation. Some travel insurance policies exclude cover following a military coup or the imposition of martial law, and your insurance may be invalid.

The Tourist Authority of Thailand’s website and call centre (1672 – press ‘9’ for English) are able to provide some general advice to tourists in English.

There is a high threat from terrorism. See Terrorism

The majority of road traffic accidents in Thailand involve motorcycles, but accidents involving other vehicles including cars, coaches and mini-buses also occur. See Road travel

By law you must carry your passport with you at all times. Tourists have been arrested because they were unable to produce their passport. See Local laws and customs

Penalties for possession, distribution or manufacture of drugs are severe and can include the death penalty. See Local laws and customs

Take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance before you travel.

Over 800,000 British nationals visit Thailand every year. Most visits are trouble-free, but incidents of crime (sometimes violent) can affect visitors. See Crime

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