Travellers bound for Thailand are recommended to be extra cautious due to the growing political unrest in Bangkok.
According to a report by the Bangkok Post, 23 countries have issued advice urging that travellers be vigilant and prioritise their safety when visiting the country. Countries that have issued such warnings include the US, UK, France, Japan, China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, South Korea and Singapore.
The Thai government has implemented the Internal Security Act in Bangkok and the surrounding area, gathering law enforcement officials and the military to take emergency measures in order to help curb the situation if necessary.
Most countries have provided a list of areas of Bangkok that travellers should avoid. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Singapore, for example, has advised people avoid tourist areas like Silom Road and Ratchaprasong Intersection. The bulletin also stated that the main protest area had now expanded beyond the Democracy Monument along Ratchadamnoen Avenue and was now taking place in various locations including several government buildings.
Meanwhile, the Security Bureau of Hong Kong has designated Thailand as an “Amber” travel zone, which means that there are signs of threat coming from the country. Travellers visiting “Amber” countries should monitor the situation closely and exercise caution.
For more information, visit www.mfa.gov.sg and www.sb.gov.hk
Clement Huang