Thailand

/This advice has been reviewed and reissued with amendments to the Summary,
Political Situation and Natural Disasters sections (removal of reference to
demonstration on 23 October and reference to further heavy rainfall).  The
overall level of the advice has not changed./

* *We advise against all but essential travel to, or through, the far
southern provinces of Pattani, Yala, Narathiwat and Songkhla, where there
is continuing violence due to insurgency and civil unrest.  Since January
2004, there have been regular attacks including bombings and shootings.
There were a number of explosions in August 2006.  The Thai Government has
declared a serious state of emergency in the provinces of Pattani, Yala
and Narathiwat.  You should also maintain high levels of vigilance when
travelling to, or through, the neighbouring province of Satun.

*
* *There is a high threat from terrorism throughout Thailand.  Attacks could
be indiscriminate and against places frequented by foreigners.

*
* *On 19 September 2006, there was a coup against the Thai civilian
government.  An interim Prime Minister was appointed on 1 October, but
martial law remains in effect throughout the country.  The situation in
Bangkok and elsewhere in Thailand is calm.   However, you should avoid any
demonstrations and large crowds.

*
* *The monsoon season in Thailand (normally September and October) has been
particularly severe in October 2006 and there has been heavy flooding in
lowland areas in many parts of Thailand.  The Thai Meteorological
Department continues to warn of further heavy rainfall in many parts of
Thailand throughout October, which could cause further flooding in
low-lying areas.  You are advised to check local weather reports or with
your tour operator before travelling to affected areas.

*
* *Penalties for possession, distribution or manufacture of drugs are severe
and can include the death penalty.

*
* *Outbreaks of Avian Influenza (Bird Flu) in Thailand have resulted in a
small number of human fatalities.  As a precaution, you should avoid live
animal markets, poultry farms and other places where you may come into
close contact with domestic, caged or wild birds; and ensure poultry and
egg dishes are thoroughly cooked.  For further information see Health
section below and also read the FCO’s Avian and Pandemic Influenza
Factsheet
.

*
* *Around 750,000 British tourists visit Thailand every year.  The main type
of incident for which British nationals require consular assistance in
Thailand is for arrests (mostly drug related); hospital cases (especially
road accidents); and deaths, mostly from natural causes and road
accidents.  The majority of consular cases occur in Bangkok, Pattaya and
Koh Samui.

*
* *We strongly recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical
insurance before travelling.  You should check any exclusions, and that
your policy covers you for the activities you want to undertake.  Please
see:  Travel Insurance

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