UK Foreign Office issues urgent 'essential travel only' warning for Thailand

The Foreign Office has issued a stern travel warning to Brits, advising against "all but essential travel" to certain parts of Thailand. The government body's latest update comes amid threats of flooding and terrorist attacks in the country.

Ignoring this advice could not only put travellers in danger, but it could also invalidate their travel insurance, the Foreign Office warned. Areas to steer clear of include regions in the south near the Thailand-Malaysia border, which are prone to "regular terrorist attacks", and northern Thailand, currently grappling with "widespread flooding".

On the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) website, it stated: "FCDO advises against all but essential travel to parts of the south, near the Thailand-Malaysia border."

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"FCDO also advises against all but essential travel on the Hat Yai to Padang Besar train line that runs through these provinces," the FCDO said. "This is due to regular terrorist attacks in the provinces by the border with Malaysia.", reports Bristol Live.

Elaborating further, it added: "There are regular terrorist attacks in the four provinces in the southern tip of Thailand by the border with Malaysia.

"However, terrorist attacks could take place anywhere in Thailand. Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreign nationals. Stay aware of your surroundings, keep up to date with local media reports and follow the advice of local authorities."

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), highlighting the severe weather conditions, issued a warning against travel to Chiang Mai and areas adjacent to the Ping River, stating: "Thailand is currently facing heavy rains and flooding in parts of the country, including widespread flooding in northern Thailand. Local authorities have issued warnings related to areas near the Ping River, including in central Chiang Mai. Remain vigilant and follow the advice of local authorities."

The FCDO continued with an alert regarding road safety, particularly emphasizing the risks involving motorcycles. As the World Health Organisation (WHO) designates Thailand among the countries with the highest rates of motorbike fatalities globally, they urge travellers to practice extreme caution when driving in the country.