FCO updates advice for people travelling to Thailand

Political unrest has not been an issue in Thailand since 21 May, but outbreaks of violence are still a threat and a state of emergency remains in certain areas. The Foreign & Commonwealth Office has updated its advice for people travelling to Thailand, as the state of emergency was extended today.

From today, the state of emergency has been extended in Bangkok and also the following areas: Nonthaburi, Samut Prakan, Prathumthani, Ayutthaya, Chon Buri (with the exception of the city of Pattaya), Pathum Thani, Khon Kaen, Udon Thani, Chaiyaphum, Nakhon Ratchasima, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Lampang, Ubon Ratchathani, Mahasarakham, Roi Et, Sakon Nakhon, Mukdahan and Nong Bua Lampu. A state of emergency prevents more than five people gathering in one place at any time.

The FCO is advising against all but essential travel to the far southern provinces of Pattani, Yala, Narathiwat and Songkhla due to outbreaks of violence. They have advised travellers to remain cautious if travelling to Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Khon Kaen, Ubon Ratchathani or Udon Thani.

Tourists travelling to Thailand must carry their passports at all times. Avoid large gatherings of people and stay indoors if violence erupts in the area. Police checkpoints are in force throughout the country, where officers are at liberty to search vehicles and people.

Attacks on travellers could be indiscriminate and tourist hotspots such as bars, restaurants or shopping centres may be targeted. Be on your guard in these areas. Keep up to date with local news when travelling to Thailand to find out about any new outbreaks of violence or extensions to the state of emergency.

If you are travelling to Thailand exercise caution while you are away and make sure you buy comprehensive travel insurance to cover your trip. Insurewithease.com offers a range of affordable single trip and annual travel insurance policies. Bear in mind that your travel insurance may become invalid if you travel to an area of Thailand against Foreign Office advice.

Before travelling to Thailand, sign up to the FCO LOCATE service. LOCATE holds details of your travel arrangements, making it easier for people to get in contact with you in the event of an emergency. If you run into trouble, you can call Consular Assistance for help on 020 7008 1500 (+44 20 7008 1500 from abroad).

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