Listeners interested in traveling to Thailand should be aware that as of late November 2025, official government advisories urge increased caution due to the risk of unrest and sporadic violence, particularly in certain southern and border regions. The U.S. State Department and the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office both maintain a Level 2 “exercise increased caution” or “high degree of caution” travel warning for Thailand overall, but they advise against all but essential travel to specific areas including Yala, Pattani, and Narathiwat provinces near the Malaysia border, as well as the districts of Chana, Thepa, Na Thawi, and Saba Yoi in southern Songkhla Province. These southernmost provinces continue to see periodic violence involving armed insurgencies, and multiple government sources emphasize that emergency support is limited in these high-risk locations.

In addition, listeners should strictly avoid travel to within 50 kilometers of Thailand’s border with Cambodia, where there have been recent armed clashes resulting in civilian casualties and the possibility of evacuation orders. Tour operators may also reroute or cancel trips to affected border provinces. The vast majority of Thailand remains both open and welcoming to tourists, and top destinations such as Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Pattaya, and Koh Samui have no travel restrictions according to the Tourism Authority of Thailand.

Travelers should note an important current event: following the recent death of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, Thailand has entered an official period of mourning expected to last at least 30 days from late October 2025. During this period, listeners are advised to wear dark, conservative clothing in public, avoid festive attire or loud behavior, and expect possible closures or service disruptions at entertainment venues, restaurants, bars, and shopping centers. Authorities request respectful conduct, particularly at temples, royal sites, and government premises.

When it comes to health and safety, tourism infrastructure in main cities is well developed, but access to appropriate medical treatment may be limited outside urban areas. Visitors are strongly encouraged to purchase travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage. It’s safest to drink bottled water, be alert for petty theft in busy tourist districts, and remain vigilant for common scams involving jet skis, tuk-tuk tours, or overpriced services. Police and tourist police hotlines are 191 and 1155 respectively, with English support.

Women traveling solo should consider dressing modestly especially at night or when using taxis, as reports indicate that revealing clothing may lead to unwanted attention. Beach safety is also an issue since many popular beaches lack lifeguards; rip currents and marine life hazards exist, and listeners should avoid swimming under the influence of alcohol or drugs and stick to resort pools if unsure about local conditions.

Political demonstrations sometimes occur in Bangkok and other large cities. These gatherings can disrupt transportation and businesses and may become violent without warning, so listeners should avoid all protest sites.

Thailand currently has no COVID-19 entry requirements and welcomes international tourists without the need for proof of vaccination or pre-travel testing. Standard entry requirements do apply: a passport with at least six months’ validity, possible proof of onward travel, and demonstrated access to sufficient funds.

The best time to visit is during the cool, dry season from November to February. The rainy season, with monsoon activity and possible flooding, occurs from June to October; typhoon risks are highest April through November.

Overall, Thailand’s most popular destinations remain safe for international visitors, provided listeners stay alert, avoid risk areas, and follow all official advisories. It’s prudent to check for updates from your home country’s embassy before and during your stay, especially as local conditions and official recommendations may change rapidly.

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI