The clash between Thai soldiers and anti-government protesters in Bangkok has prompted governments around the world to issue travel warnings. The Foreign Office has advised against all but essential travel to Bangkok. UK citizens should also review travel plans to other parts of Thailand. British citizens already in Bangkok and other cities affected by violence are advised to stay indoors and to monitor the media and this travel insurance advice.
The clash between Thai soldiers and anti-government protesters in Bangkok has prompted governments around the world to issue travel warnings. The Foreign Office has advised against all but essential travel to Bangkok. UK citizens should also review travel plans to other parts of Thailand. British citizens already in Bangkok and other cities affected by violence are advised to stay indoors and to monitor the media and this travel insurance advice. A state of emergency has been in place in Bangkok and the surrounding provinces of Nonthaburi, Samut Prakan, Pathumthani, Nakhon Prathom and Ayudhaya since April 12.
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Armored vehicles are deployed in the capital and security forces are trying to clear the streets. Several violent clashes have taken place between supporters in red-dressed former Prime Minister Thaksin and military and police units in central Bangkok and the seaside resort of Pattaya. In the early hours of April 13, troops used tear gas and fired warning shots at a group of protesters who were again firing. There have been reports of around 60-70 injuries.
Several shops were closed and protesters in red have blocked several crossroads with makeshift barricades and tank trucks. This made traveling in parts of Bangkok difficult. The Lao / Thai border crossing at Nong Chai was closed and there were reports of road blocks in Chiang Mai and Lampang in northern Thailand. The leaders in red have threatened massive protests in 50 cities across Thailand in the next few days.
Bangkok’s main train station is closed.
However, the international airport and main access roads to it remain open. Transiting via Bangkok airport has so far not been affected. Foreigners have not been targeted by protesters and there have been no reports of Britons being caught directly in the violence. However, the situation remains volatile and unpredictable with the risk of further bloodshed. The political situation in Thailand is still uncertain. Across Thailand, British citizens must exercise caution and avoid demonstrations or large gatherings of people that might turn violent.
If you get caught up in what’s called a tidy, civil unrest or civil unrest, you need to be aware that most travel insurance providers include this as a general exception in their policies. The impact of this is that you may not be as well insured as you think. When in doubt, check with your travel insurance company before you travel and look at the wording of your policy. Generally, medical expenses and medical repatriation will be included but if you want to be covered for all odds then you will have to pay an increased premium for this.
Fortunately the chances of getting caught up in these types of incidents are still very few, and even when they go on strike, they tend to be far from the main tourist destinations. So, if you are planning to visit Thailand, check with your tour operator beforehand who may be able to offer alternative destinations away from problem areas. For independent travelers, be wise and avoid areas where increased tension is present.