Is It Safe To Travel In Thailand Now? With its stunning temples, vibrant street life, and beautiful beaches, Thailand is a dream destination for many. At TRAVELS.EDU.VN, we understand your need for assurance and up-to-date advice when planning your trip. Whether you’re a couple seeking a romantic getaway, a group of friends on an adventure, or a seasoned traveler, we’re here to give you the insight you need for a smooth and enjoyable visit. Discover the most recent safety information, travel tips, and practical advice to help you enjoy your journey to the “Land of Smiles” with total piece of mind. With comprehensive information and proactive safety measures, you can plan an amazing and secure vacation.
1. Current Risk Levels in Thailand
Thailand is generally a safe country for tourists, but it’s crucial to be aware of specific risks and take necessary precautions. According to the most recent advisories, different regions of Thailand have varying risk levels. Here’s a breakdown:
1.1. Exercise a High Degree of Caution
Most of Thailand requires travelers to exercise a high degree of caution. This is mainly due to ongoing political tensions and sporadic demonstrations in Bangkok and other parts of the country. While these events are not always violent, they can disrupt travel plans and pose a risk to personal safety.
1.2. Avoid All Travel to Southern Provinces
The southern provinces of Narathiwat, Pattani, Songkhla, and Yala are considered high-risk areas where all travel should be avoided. Separatist insurgents operate in these areas and periodically perpetrate violent attacks, including shootings, bombings, and arson.
2. Safety and Security Concerns
Understanding potential safety and security concerns is crucial for planning a safe trip to Thailand. Here are some key issues to be aware of:
2.1. Southern Provinces: Ongoing Insurgency
In the southernmost provinces of Narathiwat, Pattani, Songkhla, and Yala, separatist insurgents regularly carry out politically and criminally driven attacks. These attacks, which frequently target government, military, and security buildings and personnel, involve shootings, bombings, and arson. In addition, they have taken place in a range of public settings.
In Narathiwat, Pattani, Yala, and Sadao District in Songkhla, martial law and significantly enhanced security measures are in effect. The authorities have greater enforcement powers as a result, allowing them to seize objects or documents, conduct searches, hold suspects without charge, and impose curfews. If you visit these provinces, you run the danger of becoming an unintentional victim of an attack.
2.2. Myanmar Border Areas
When visiting the Thailand-Myanmar border regions in the provinces of Mae Hong Son and Tak, exercise extra caution. Banditry, sporadic violence, and skirmishes between government forces and drug traffickers occur. Border crossing points may be closed without warning. Use only authorized border crossing locations and bring the necessary travel documentation when crossing.
2.3. Preah Vihear Temple Area
There are unconfirmed reports of landmines in the Preah Vihear temple area as Thailand and Cambodia continue to have a border dispute in the area. Use extra caution when visiting any additional border areas between Thailand and Cambodia.
2.4. Political Tensions
Thailand’s unstable political climate has fostered a tense and erratic security environment, particularly in Bangkok. Legal provisions may permit the military to hold and exercise extensive powers, such as the authority to censor media, stop public gatherings, impose curfews, set up checkpoints, restrict movement, look for weapons, and use force in response to violence. At any moment, such actions may be put into effect. Some websites, radio and television stations might not be accessible, and access to social media platforms might be temporarily cut off.
2.5. Petty Crime
Pickpocketing, purse snatching, and theft are common petty crimes. To remove contents, thieves occasionally use razors to cut bags and purses open. Do not leave bags unattended, and keep personal possessions, including passports and travel documents, safe at all times, especially in crowded markets, bus or train stations, and tourist hotspots. Refrain from traveling in desolate places or dark alleys. Thefts also occur on cross-country vans and buses. From luggage compartments underneath buses, especially on long-distance trips, personal belongings, including passports, have been taken. Only work with reliable transportation providers. Budget motels frequently experience break-ins, occasionally while guests are dozing off in their rooms.
2.6. Violent Crime
Violent acts against foreigners do happen on occasion. Before departing Thailand, make sure to report any criminal incidents to the Thai police in the relevant jurisdiction.
2.7. Fraud
While visiting Thailand, a lot of people fall prey to a variety of scams. You ought to report each instance to the tourist police.
2.7.1. Credit Card and ATM Fraud
Credit card and ATM fraud take place. Use caution when using debit or credit cards, paying close attention when others are handling them. When entering your PIN, use ATMs in well-lit areas or inside a bank or business, and cover the keypad with one hand. Check your account statements for any unauthorized transactions and refrain from using card readers that have an odd or unusual feature.
2.7.2. Rental Scams
Rental businesses have occasionally charged renters for causing damage when the equipment was returned. In a few instances, renters who declined to pay were intimidated and harassed, and their passports (held as security) were taken. Certain businesses have also taken the motorcycle and then demanded payment from the renter. Before renting a motorbike or personal watercraft, carefully read all rental agreements to make sure the vehicle is covered for theft and damage. As proof of prior damage, take images of any damage to rented vehicles. Never give your passport as security for a rental. If your passport is taken or is inaccessible as a result of this, you could be the subject of a Passport Canada investigation and only be eligible for a limited range of passport services. Only rent from reputable businesses.
2.7.3. Entertainment Venues
Some bars, nightclubs, and entertainment venues might try to charge exorbitant prices. Discussions regarding overcharging might result in threats of violence. Verify prices prior to consumption, refrain from starting a tab, and avoid leaving your credit card with restaurant or bar staff.
2.7.4. Travel Agencies
When working with travel agencies, confirm that the business is a reliable tour operator prior to making a payment.
2.7.5. Investment Fraud
Seek legal counsel in Canada and Thailand if you intend to acquire property or make other investments in Thailand. Take action prior to making commitments. It could take a long time and cost a lot of money to resolve related disputes.
2.7.6. Gems and Jewellery Purchases
In frauds involving gems and jewelry, merchants sell inferior items at inflated prices while promising that the items can be resold for a profit. The guarantees made by merchants are not always upheld. Carefully assess all purchases if you are unfamiliar with gems and jewelry. The Government of Canada is unable to help with getting refunds for purchases made.
2.8. Spiked Food and Drinks
Never leave food or drinks in the care of strangers or unattended. Be mindful of accepting gum, cigarettes, snacks, or beverages from new acquaintances. These products could have medications that raise your chance of robbery or sexual assault. Get medical help right away if you think you’ve been drugged.
2.9. Women’s Safety
Sexual assaults against foreign women have been reported. Use extra caution during Songkran, full moon parties, and other well-known tourist destination events. If you are sexually assaulted, get medical help and let the closest Canadian office and local authorities know about the incident right away.
2.10. Terrorism
Thailand is under a terrorist threat. Outside of the southern provinces of Narathiwat, Pattani, Songkhla, and Yala, small-scale bomb attacks have occurred in public areas, though they are infrequent. Additional assaults are a possibility. Potential objectives include government buildings (such as schools), places of worship, transportation hubs and networks, airports, and public spaces frequented by foreigners, such as markets, hotels, shopping centers, coffee shops, bars, restaurants, and tourist attractions. When in public, always be aware of your surroundings.
2.11. Demonstrations
Large demonstrations are taking place on a regular basis in Bangkok and all over the nation. Demonstrations are anticipated to persist given the social tensions. Even peaceful rallies can turn violent at any time. Additionally, they may obstruct traffic and public transit when they obstruct main thoroughfares and intersections, and they may result in the closure of mass transit stations. Always maintain a high degree of awareness regarding your own security. Military installations and security personnel concentrations should be avoided. Anticipate a heightened security presence in a number of locations. Always have identification documents on you, heed the directions of local officials, and keep up with the local news to learn about any continuing demonstrations.
2.12. Water Activities
Poisonous jellyfish contact has resulted in deaths off the coasts of Koh Phi Phi, Koh Lanta, Koh Pha Ngan, Krabi, and Phuket. Coastal areas’ riptides can be powerful, especially in well-known locations like Rayong, Phuket, Pattaya, Koh Samui, and Cha-am/Hua Hin. Drowning has caused a number of fatalities. Diving schools and rescue services might not adhere to international standards. Only rent water sports gear from vendors who are connected to significant international training organizations. Use extreme caution when engaging in water activities or swimming. When a red flag is displayed, pay attention to flag warnings and refrain from swimming. If stung by a jellyfish, seek medical assistance right once.
2.13. Adventure Tourism
Choose a well-known, reputable company that has insurance coverage if you plan to participate in adventure sports like parasailing, spelunking, rock climbing, zip-lining, or elephant trekking. Tour companies might not abide by international standards. If you have any concerns regarding the equipment’s or installation’s safety, don’t use them. Verify that your travel insurance covers the recreational pursuits you select. Buy travel insurance that includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation, always hire a knowledgeable guide from a reputable company, and never engage in adventure tourism alone. Ascertain that your physical health is sufficient to meet the demands of your activity, stay on marked trails, be well-equipped, and be well-informed about any weather or other circumstances that could be dangerous. Inform a friend or family member of your schedule, and gather comprehensive information on each activity prior to beginning.
2.14. Chemical Pesticide Poisoning
There have been instances of poisoning linked to the usage of chemical pesticides, such as phosphine. Get medical help right away if you think you’ve been exposed to a chemical pesticide and are having unusual symptoms. Find out if chemical pesticides are utilized in your lodging.
2.15. Road Safety
In Thailand, accidents involving cars and pedestrians are extremely common. Frequent accidents are caused by hazardous road conditions, inclement weather, disregard for traffic regulations, and drunk driving. Some cars, particularly motorcycles, may drive on sidewalks and against the flow of traffic. Drunk driving and accidents occur far more frequently around the Thai New Year (Songkran, mid-April) and the western New Year (January 1). Use extra caution when operating a vehicle during these holiday seasons. Visibility and speed are limited by slow-moving trucks. Avoid driving on mountain roads at night, particularly during the rainy season (June to October). Although most only have two lanes, paved roads connect major cities. Particularly during the rainy season, certain roads may become impassable. Pedestrians and cyclists should exercise extreme caution. Whenever feasible, you should always utilize elevated walkways and pedestrian bridges, particularly in Bangkok.
2.16. Motorcycles
Motorcycle accidents are common and account for most traffic-related deaths. Rental motorcycles and scooters are frequently poorly maintained, which makes them unsafe for both riders and other road users. For motorcycle riders, including passengers, helmets are required; however, many helmets do not adhere to international safety standards. You could be denied insurance claims if you were driving without a motorcycle license. Avoid riding or driving motorcycles in Thailand, even if you are an experienced motorcyclist.
2.17. Public Transportation
Licensed taxis from official taxi stands, limousine services, or a reliable ride-sharing app should be used. When arriving by air, arrange for pickup by hotel shuttle services, use a reliable ride-sharing app, the airport rail-link service, or official airport buses. Cars without the proper insurance to transport passengers and that might not use meters are those that are not licensed (bearing black and white license plates). A lot of taxis might not have seatbelts in the back. Refrain from sharing a cab with strangers. Conflicts with operators of tuk-tuks (motorized rickshaws), taxis, and other vehicles do occur and have occasionally turned violent or intimidating. In the event of a disagreement, ask the local police for assistance in resolving the matter if you feel threatened.
2.18. Marine Transportation
Due to overloading and inadequate maintenance on some ships, passenger boat accidents have taken place. Vessels frequently lack sufficient safety equipment. Avoid boarding ships that appear unseaworthy or overloaded.
2.19. Trains
Armed assaults and sabotage have previously targeted rail lines in the far south. Injuries and fatalities have resulted from train accidents in recent years.
2.20. Piracy
In coastal waters, pirate attacks and armed robbery against ships take place. Mariners ought to take the necessary safety measures.
2.21. Air Travel
We do not evaluate foreign domestic airlines’ compliance with international safety regulations.
3. Entry and Exit Requirements
Every nation or territory gets to decide who can enter and depart through its borders. The Government of Canada is unable to assist on your behalf if you do not adhere to your destination’s entry or exit requirements.
3.1. Passport Validity
Your passport must be valid for at least six months when entering Thailand with a standard Canadian passport.
3.2. Visas
For tourism purposes, Canadians with standard passports are granted a 60-day visa exemption upon arrival (no visa required), which can be extended for an additional 30 days at the Immigration Office at the discretion of the immigration officer. You are permitted multiple entries into Thailand during the six-month validity period of a Multiple Entry Tourist Visa (METV), but each stay must not be longer than sixty days. Prior to traveling, the METV visa must be obtained.
A Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) is valid for five years. The holder, their spouse, and dependent children are permitted multiple entries with a maximum stay of 180 days each with this visa. After the initial 180-day maximum stay, you must depart and re-enter Thailand using the same DTV before it expires. Muay Thai course participants, sports training, Thai cooking classes, medical treatments, seminars, music festivals, and remote workers are all granted DTVs. Holders of DTVs are not permitted to work for Thai companies.
You must obtain the necessary visa straight from a Thai embassy or consulate if you intend to work or study in Thailand or remain longer than sixty days. Please be wary of visa brokers, visa agents, and visa agencies. Local authorities are actively enforcing and monitoring compliance with visa regulations. Those seeking non-immigrant visas in category “O-A” must present documentation of valid health insurance that satisfies particular requirements.
3.3. Other Entry Requirements
Thai Border officials may ask you for proof that you have enough money to support yourself for the duration of your stay and a return or onward ticket. You might be turned away if you’re unable to do so.
3.4. Entry Stamp
When entering Thailand, you must have an immigration officer stamp your passport. Don’t obtain your visa, visa extension, or entry stamp from travel agents or visa shops in Thailand. Any passport that has been tampered with or that has fake visas, entry/exit stamps, is regarded as invalid. Offenders may face jail time, fines, deportation, and future bans from entering Thailand.
3.5. Length of Stay
Even if your visa indicates a different date, the date on your Thai entry stamp determines how long you are permitted to stay in the nation. Every ninety days, all foreigners residing in Thailand for longer than three months must notify the immigration office there of their residence.
The Royal Thai Police carry out random visa inspections, and strict penalties are applied for overstaying. Canadians who overstay their visas have been taken into custody and held until their deportation. The foreigner is responsible for paying for deportation procedures, which can take a while. Detention facilities for immigrants are in bad shape. You risk being barred from re-entering Thailand for one to ten years if you overstay, whether you depart willingly or are deported.
3.6. Dual Citizenship
If you are a dual citizen, you must enter and exit Thailand using the same nationality passport.
3.7. Children and Travel
It is advisable to learn more about traveling with children.
3.8. Yellow Fever
It is advisable to learn about any potential entry requirements related to yellow fever, particularly those pertaining to vaccines.
4. Health Information
4.1. Routine Vaccines
Irrespective of your destination, ensure all of your routine vaccinations are current prior to traveling. These may include vaccines against polio, varicella (chickenpox), seasonal flu, meningococcal disease, measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough), and others.
4.2. Pre-Travel Vaccines and Medications
While traveling to this location, you could be susceptible to diseases that can be avoided with medication or vaccinations. Based on your travel arrangements, speak with a travel health professional about which ones are best for you.
4.2.1. Yellow Fever
There is no risk of yellow fever in this country. Vaccination is not recommended.
4.2.2. Hepatitis A
There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. Practise safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travelers to areas where hepatitis A is present.
4.2.3. Malaria
There is a risk of malaria in certain areas and/or during a certain time of year in this destination.
Antimalarial medication may be recommended depending on your itinerary and the time of year you are traveling. Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic before traveling to discuss your options. Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times: Cover your skin and use an approved insect repellent on uncovered skin. Exclude mosquitoes from your living area with screening and/or closed, well-sealed doors and windows. Use insecticide-treated bed nets if mosquitoes cannot be excluded from your living area and wear permethrin-treated clothing.
4.2.4. Rabies
In this destination, rabies is carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While traveling, take precautions, including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional.
4.2.5. Measles
Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when traveling internationally. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before traveling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.
4.2.6. Japanese Encephalitis
Japanese encephalitis is a viral infection that can cause swelling of the brain. It is spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. Risk is very low for most travelers. Travellers at relatively higher risk may want to consider vaccination for JE prior to traveling.
4.2.7. Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus. Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B. Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travelers.
4.2.8. COVID-19
Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It is recommended that all eligible travelers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before traveling. Before traveling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before traveling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.
4.3. Safe Food and Water Precautions
Eating or drinking unsafe food or water, or swimming in contaminated water can make you sick while traveling. Take precautions by following these tips: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it (only eat food that is prepared safely). Avoid, if possible, getting water in your eyes, mouth, or nose when swimming in freshwater (like streams, lakes, or canals), especially after heavy rain or flooding – the water might look clean but can still be contaminated. Don’t swallow water when bathing, showering, swimming in pools, or using hot tubs.
4.4. Cholera
Cholera is a risk in parts of this country. Most travelers are at very low risk. To protect against cholera, all travelers should practise safe food and water precautions. Vaccination may be recommended for high-risk travelers, and should be discussed with a health care professional.
4.5. Travelers’ Diarrhea
Travelers’ diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travelers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water. Risk of developing travelers’ diarrhea increases when traveling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions. The most important treatment for travelers’ diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when traveling.
4.6. Typhoid
Typhoid is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travelers going to rural areas, travelers visiting friends and relatives or those traveling for a long period of time. Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.
4.7. Tick and Insect Bite Prevention
Many diseases are spread by bites from infected ticks and insects like mosquitoes, fleas, or flies. Before you travel, find out what types of ticks or insects are in the area, when they’re most active, and what diseases they can spread.
To protect yourself from bites: use an approved bug spray (insect repellent) on exposed skin, wear light-colored, loose clothing made of tightly woven materials like nylon or polyester, wear socks and closed-toe shoes, sleep under mosquito netting if you’re outdoors or staying in places that aren’t fully enclosed and do a full body tick check on yourself, your children, your gear, and any pets you’re traveling with when you return from outdoor activities.
4.8. Chikungunya
There is a risk of chikungunya in this country. The level of risk may vary by: season, year, region and elevation. The virus that causes chikungunya is spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can cause fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years. Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times.
4.9. Zika Virus
Zika virus is a risk in this country. Zika virus is primarily spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can also be sexually transmitted. Zika virus can cause serious birth defects. Prevent mosquito bites at all times and use condoms correctly or avoid sexual contact, particularly if you are pregnant.
4.10. Dengue
In this country, dengue is a risk to travelers. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites. Dengue can cause flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to severe dengue, which can be fatal. The level of risk of dengue changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. The level of risk also varies between regions in a country and can depend on the elevation in the region. Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset. Protect yourself from mosquito bites. There is no vaccine or medication available in Canada to prevent dengue.
4.11. Animal Precautions
Some infections, like rabies and bird flu (avian influenza), can be spread from animals to humans. Certain activities can increase your chances of coming into contact with animals, like: traveling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, or visiting caves and visiting places where live animals are sold or killed for food, like wet markets. To reduce your risk of getting sick, avoid contact with animals like stray dogs, livestock (such as pigs and cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats. Avoid eating undercooked meat.
4.12. Avian Influenza
Human cases of avian influenza have been reported in this destination. Avoid contact with birds, including wild, farm, and backyard birds (alive or dead) and surfaces that may have bird droppings on them. Ensure all poultry dishes, including eggs and wild game, are properly cooked.
4.13. Person-to-Person Infections
When traveling, you can reduce your risk of getting or spreading respiratory infections, like the flu or COVID-19, by: staying at your accommodation and limiting contact with others if you’re sick, wearing a well-fitting mask, especially: if you’re sick and need to be around others and when you’re at large indoor events or in crowded settings, like sporting events, concerts, and airports. Cleaning your hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, or using hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol and covering your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow, not your hands.
4.14. Tuberculosis
Tuberculosis is an infection caused by bacteria and usually affects the lungs. For most travelers the risk of tuberculosis is low.
4.15. HIV
HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that attacks and impairs the immune system, resulting in a chronic, progressive illness known as AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome). High risk activities include anything which puts you in contact with blood or body fluids, such as unprotected sex and exposure to unsterilized needles for medications or other substances (for example, steroids and drugs), tattooing, body-piercing or acupuncture.
4.16. Medical Services and Facilities
Excellent healthcare is available in major cities, particularly in private hospitals and clinics. Quality of care varies significantly in rural areas. Establishments may require confirmation of health insurance coverage, a guarantee of payment or an upfront deposit before admitting patients. Psychiatric or psychological facilities and services in Thailand may not meet international standards. Canadians with mental illness have been committed to state facilities, detained and deported. Medical evacuation can be very expensive and you may need it in case of serious illness or injury. Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.
5. Local Laws and Customs
5.1. Abide by Local Laws
It is essential to respect local laws. Knowledge of local laws and how the government can assist you if you are arrested or detained abroad.
5.2. Identification
You must carry identification at all times. Carry a photocopy of your passport bio-data page and Thai visa or entry stamp. Police may still require that you produce the original document. If you fail to do so, you could be detained.
5.3. Drugs
Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs, including cannabis, are very severe. Convicted offenders can expect heavy fines, jail sentences or even the death penalty. Police regularly perform spot checks to search for illegal drugs, particularly in and around entertainment venues. Uniformed or undercover police may conduct physical searches and may screen your belongings. You may be asked to provide a urine sample. If you carry prescription drugs or other medicines, keep them in clearly marked, original packaging. Certain prescription drugs are frequently sold without prescription in entertainment areas and coastal resorts, including on the street. You should never buy controlled drugs without prescription or on the street. These may be counterfeit or could contain illegal substances. If you purchase these drugs, you could be subject to scrutiny or detained.
5.4. Alcohol
The legal drinking age in Thailand is 20. It is illegal to promote the consumption of alcohol. You could be fined or taken to court for posting on social media any pictures that include alcoholic beverages or people consuming alcohol.
5.5. Smoking
It is prohibited to import, possess or use e-cigarettes, vaporisers, e-baraku (e-hashish) and their refills. Convicted offenders can expect heavy fines or jail sentences of up to 10 years. A smoking ban is in effect on several beaches across the country and is punishable by a 100,000-baht fine and up to 1 year in prison. Check with local authorities and look for no-smoking signs before smoking on a beach.
5.6. Gambling
Gambling, with some exceptions, is illegal.
5.7. Lèse-majesté
Actions or words that are considered offensive or insulting to the king or the royal family are illegal and may result in criminal prosecution and lengthy prison sentences. Don’t make any public statement, including online, that could be perceived as critical of: the monarchy, the political situation in Thailand and the Royal Thai Army.
5.8. Restricted Goods
There are strict regulations regarding the importation and exportation of images of the Buddha, counterfeit goods, pornographic material and other items. Consult the complete list of restricted and prohibited items before travelling.
5.9. Feeding Fish
Feeding fish in the ocean is illegal and punishable by a 100000-baht fine and up to 1 year in prison. Do not feed fish in the ocean and avoid boat tour operators who encourage tourists to do so.
5.10. Driving
Traffic drives on the left. You must be at least 18 years old to drive a car in Thailand. You must carry an international driving permit or a Thai driver’s licence to drive in Thailand. It is illegal to operate a motorcycle without a valid Thai motorcycle licence or an international driving permit with a motorcycle endorsement. Helmets are mandatory for motorcycle riders (including passengers), but many helmets do not meet international safety standards. Carry your identification card, driver’s licence and vehicle registration book at all times.
5.11. Housing Foreign Citizens
All hosts, including hotel staff and homeowners, must notify local authorities that they are housing foreign citizens within 24 hours of the arrival of these foreigners.
5.12. Commercial Surrogacy
Commercial surrogacy is illegal in Thailand. If you’re planning to visit Thailand for the purpose of commissioning surrogacy arrangements, you should consider the potential challenges involved in pursuing international surrogacy and seek specialist legal advice on Thai and Canadian laws prior to making any arrangements.
5.13. Dual Citizenship
Dual citizenship is not legally recognized in Thailand. If local authorities consider you a citizen of Thailand, they may refuse to grant you access to Canadian consular services.
5.14. Compulsory Military Service
Male Thai citizens are subject to compulsory military service when they reach the age of 21. If you’re a dual Canadian–Thai citizen, you may be subject to this requirement.
5.15. International Child Abduction
The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. It does not apply between Canada and Thailand.
5.16. Money
The currency of Thailand is the Thai baht (THB).
6. Natural Disasters and Climate
6.1. Climate Change
Climate change is affecting Thailand. Extreme and unusual weather events are becoming more frequent and may affect your travel plans. Monitor local media for the latest information.
6.2. Seismic Activity
Thailand is located in an active seismic zone and is prone to earthquakes and tsunamis. In case of an earthquake or a tsunami alert, follow the instructions of local authorities.
6.3. Monsoon
The rainy (or monsoon) season extends from June to October. Seasonal flooding can hamper overland travel and reduce the provision of essential services. Roads may become impassable and bridges damaged. Jungle treks are not advisable during the rainy season due to the possibility of mudslides. Flash flooding in caves has caused fatalities.
6.4. Air Pollution
Air pollution fluctuates greatly and can be hazardous in urban areas, including Bangkok and Chiang Mai. Seasonal smog during the dry season is recurrent. In the northern provinces, including Chiang Mai, air quality can also be affected by agricultural burning. You should monitor air pollution levels, especially if you suffer from respiratory ailments or if you have a pre-existing medical condition. Local authorities recommend that children, seniors and pregnant women wear anti-pollution masks, and minimize outdoor activities, when air pollution levels are high.
7. How TRAVELS.EDU.VN Enhances Your Travel Experience
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Our staff of seasoned travel specialists is committed to giving you the most precise and recent information possible so you can make well-informed judgments regarding your trip. In addition to general safety advice, we provide specialist insights into regional customs, hidden gems, and must-see destinations. You can fully immerse yourself in Thai culture and have unique experiences that go beyond the typical tourist attractions with the assistance of our local insights.
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7.5. Commitment to Safety and Reliability
TRAVELS.EDU.VN is dedicated to upholding the strictest standards of dependability and safety. We carefully choose our partners, including lodging, tour guides, and transportation services, to make sure they have a track record of providing outstanding experiences. We regularly assess our partnerships to make sure they adhere to our exacting standards.
8. Testimonials and Success Stories
8.1. Real-Life Experiences
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