Tour and Traveling Tips

A heated exchange between Thai troops and anti-government protesters in Bangkok have prompted governments worldwide to issue travel warnings. Foreign Ministry has advised against all but essential travel to Bangkok. British nationals should also revise travel plans to other parts of Thailand. British nationals already in Bangkok and other cities affected by the violence advised to stay indoors and monitor the media and the travel insurance advice. Martial law has been in force in Bangkok and surrounding provinces of Nonthaburi, Samut Prakan, Pathumthani, Nakhon Prathom and Ayudhaya since April 12. Armored vehicles are deployed in the capital and security forces trying to clear the streets. Several violent clashes occurred between the red-shirted supporters of ex-Prime Minister Thaksin and the military and police units in central Bangkok and the seaside resort of Pattaya. During the early hours on April 13, troops used tear gas and fired warning shots at a group of demonstrators who returned fire. There are reports of about 60-70 damage. Some shops are closed and red shirted protesters have blocked several intersections with improvised barricades and tanker trucks. This makes traveling in some parts of Bangkok difficult. Laos / Thailand border crossing at Nong Chai is closed and there are reports of roadblocks in Chiang Mai and Lampang in northern Thailand. Red-shirt leaders have threatened large protests in 50 cities across Thailand over the next few days. The main Bangkok railway station is closed. But the international airport and the main access road to remain open. The transit through Bangkok airport has so far been unaffected. Foreigners have not been subjected to the protesters and there are no reports of British nationals caught directly in the violence. However, the situation remains volatile and unpredictable with a high risk of further bloodshed. The political situation in Thailand remains uncertain. Throughout Thailand, British nationals should exercise extreme caution and avoid demonstrations and large crowds that may turn violent. Would you be caught up in what is called fine, civil commotion or unrest, you must be aware that most travel insurance providers that as a general waiver of its policy. The effect of this is that you might not as well insured when you think you are. If you are unsure, check with your travel insurance before you go and look at your policy wording. In general, medical expenses and medical repatriation included but if you want to be covered for all eventualities when you have to pay a higher premium for this. Fortunately, the risk of being caught up in these types of incidents is still very small, and even when not on strike, they tend to be away from the main tourist attractions. So if you plan to visit Thailand, can check with your tour in advance that might provide alternative destinations away from the troubled areas. For the independent traveler, be wise and avoid the areas where a higher voltage is present.