Safe Travel Thailand Guide (Safe Travel Guide Book 1)

Reduce your exposure to the sun to short bursts. Permanent skin damage starts to occur after 15 minutes. The tropical sun is not to be trifled with, do not underestimate it. Keep yourself hydrated at all times, safe bottled drinking water is available everywhere, it's cold and it's cheap. Carry a bottle of water with you at all times, don't underestimate the risks of dehydration. It's cheap and convenient, saves using the Mini Bar.

Bangkok taxis are a very safe mode of transport and operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Presenting yourself with an air of confidence, knowing that the meter must start at THB35 and be prepared to get out and take another taxi if not. Don't engage the driver in unnecessary conversation.

Travel advice and advisories for Thailand

If needed, repeat your destination confidently, clearly, slowly, and politely. Don't take taxis parked by hotels or tourist attractions, there are so many that it is far better to flag down a passing taxi. Nearly all taxi drivers are men. If you feel more comfortable with a female driver you may wish to seek out a service that supplies them. Women who like to dress-up in an overtly-sexual manner for those big nights out, should be aware that unfortunately this may be misinterpreted by some as a statement of your own level of morality and intentions.

In the circumstance where you need to catch a taxi home late at night by yourself, the following advice was offered on the Thai forum by a female member: I always carry a button shirt to throw on if I'm going to be catching a cab. Don't talk to them if you can help it, just be sharp and direct with your words, dont UMm and Ahh with them. If you know where you want to go just tell them clearly and loudly, then sit back and if they ask any questions pretend you don't understand. It's part of the Thai experience to try a tuk-tuk at least once, however as a general rule, it's best to avoid them as a primary means of transportation.

If you must use a tuk-tuk, unlike a taxi, you have to negotiate the fare to your destination first, and don't pay until your safe arrival. Do not let them take you to tailors, gem stores, or anywhere else that you didn't ask to go. Do not let them talk you into sightseeing, and other "special" sites. To avoid a "surprise" bill, avoid any restaurant or bar that doesn't clearly display or otherwise quote their prices.

It is perfectly ok to ask a street vendor or other merchant "how much" before ordering. Once you've consumed it, you've bought it - so be aware of the prices before hand. It's a good idea to stock up on some "emergency food" especially with children. There have been incidents of bag snatchers on motorbikes. Keep your bag clutched tightly and securely to your side when walking. In crowded conditions, consider wearing your day-pack in front of you instead of on your back.

Be aware of persons who may innocently "bump" into you as a means to distract you. Pickpockets are not common but they do exsist. Take the usual precautions with wallets, purses, and day packs. You can learn a lot by watching Thai people, they are often very discreet when reaching for their cash, almost to the point of being secretive. Splitting up your money can be a good idea.

Carry a small amount of instant access cash in your preferred receptacle, and carry the balance along with your credit cards , in a more secure place money belt, hidden pocket, in your shoes, etc. Do not bring it, if possible. However, if you must wear expensive jewellery, do so discreetly. When riding motorbikes or in the back of Songthaews, keep your necklace tucked well inside your clothing, or better yet, leave it in your hotel room safe. Thieves are very adept at snatching these items from your neck, and while in motion.

This is not uncommon, in busy areas, it is indiscriminate - Thai people are just as likely to be the victims of this type of theft. When practical try to use ATMs that are inside a bank or inside a secured building. If you must use one in a shopping mall or street make sure you cover the keypad with your other hand as your enter your PIN and DO NOT walk away counting your cash.

Fraud exists in Thailand, as in any other country.

Watch as it's used, and double check the purchase amount and currency, before signing or entering your pin number. Once you sign the receipt, in most cases you are accepting and agree to pay that amount. Clubs, Pubs and Parties: Drink Spiking -- the act of covertly adding chemicals or drugs to your drink -- is not unheard of and the consequences speak for themselves. Similarly don't leave your cash and valuables unattended. Be aware of your alcohol consumption, try not to overindulge and not be able to safely make your way home. It's possible that someone may be watching and assessing how easy a target you'd make.

Don't accept drugs in any shape or form, at any time or for any reason. Apart from never really knowing what substance you're actually ingesting, you should seriously consider the possibility that any offers of drugs may in fact be a undercover Police operation. Possession also includes being under the influence of drugs. Police have the power to order urinalysis urine analysis drug screening, the results of which can be used as evidence against you in any future criminal prosecution and form the basis for your arrest for possession. It is not unknown for the Royal Thai Police to conduct enforcement "raids" on bars and clubs where "party drugs" are suspected, and order mass searches and screenings of all patrons -- both Thai and foreigners alike -- without exception.

There are reports of corrupt Police officers using tourists caught with drugs -- in any amount -- as a means to extort large sums of money in "exchange" for releasing them without arrest or criminal charge. While Thailand is the Land of Smiles, you really should be cautious of anyone who approaches you "out of the blue", irrespective of their nationality. Encounters such as these can potentially lead to you becoming the victim of a scam or con artist.

Don't simply trust a stranger based solely on the fact that they're from your "home" country. Con artists of all nationalities are "out there" scheming and cheating their way through life. Thai people can be very helpful and accommodating when asked, however it is not a normal Thai custom to approach strangers and offer unsolicited advice or assistance. Don't get involved in card games, gambling, cockfights, pool-table games for money etc. Even though widely practised by law, with the exception of the national Thai State Lottery and the occasional Horse Racing event, gambling in any form is illegal.

Don't let a tout or stranger lead you away from, or to, a location other than your intended one. Don't buy gemstones unless you are qualified to know their value, and can judge good quality from poor. Familiarise yourself with the common scams and cons visitors may encounter - http: At bus stations and train stations, always ignore touts and go directly to the Official ticket seller's window.

Airline tickets are NEVER transferable from one person to another and must be purchased either directly from the airline or an authorised agent. Always be aware of your surroundings, and be mindful of how you would describe your exact location in an emergency situation. Make a note of the Thai Tourist Police generic phone number which is and add it to your cell phone speed dial list.

The Thai Tourist Police is a special arm of the National Royal Thai Police and specifically trained to deal with common situations involving a non-resident tourist. Many speak basic and passable English. Those who overstay, regardless of whether they leave Thailand voluntarily or are deported, will be banned from re-entering Thailand 1 to 10 years.

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever vaccines section. Some of these vaccines include: You may be at risk for these vaccine-preventable diseases while travelling in this country. Talk to your travel health professional about which ones are right for you.

All those travelling to regions with a risk of hepatitis A infection should get vaccinated. Hepatitis B is a disease of the liver spread through blood or other bodily fluids. Travellers who may be exposed e. Seasonal influenza occurs worldwide. The flu season usually runs from November to April in the northern hemisphere, between April and October in the southern hemisphere and year round in the tropics.

Influenza flu is caused by a virus spread from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Get the flu shot.

Risk Levels

Japanese encephalitis is a viral infection that can cause swelling of the brain. It is spread by the bite of an infected mosquito. Risk is low for most travellers. Vaccination should be considered for those who may be exposed to mosquito bites e. Rabies is a deadly illness spread to humans through a bite, scratch or lick from an infected animal.

Vaccination should be considered for travellers going to areas where rabies exists and who have a high risk of exposure e. Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito. Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection. Travellers to any destination in the world can develop travellers' diarrhea from consuming contaminated water or food. In some areas in Southeast Asia, food and water can also carry diseases like cholera , hepatitis A , schistosomiasis and typhoid. Practise safe food and water precautions while travelling in Southeast Asia.

Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it! Cholera is a risk in parts of this country. Most travellers are at very low risk.

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For protection of cholera. All travellers should practise safe food and water precautions. Travellers at higher risk should discuss with a health care professional the benefits of getting vaccinated. Typhoid is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Travellers visiting regions with a risk typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation should speak to a health care professional about vaccination. Travellers are advised to take precautions against bites. There is currently a risk of chikungunya in this country.

Chikungunya can cause a viral disease that typically causes 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. There is no vaccine available for chikungunya. Zika virus infection is a risk in this country. Recent or ongoing cases of Zika virus have been reported in this country. All travellers should protect themselves from mosquito bites day and night. Zika virus infection during pregnancy can cause serious birth defects such as abnormally small heads microcephaly.

Zika virus can also be sexually transmitted. See travel health notice: Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats. Some infections found in some areas in Southeastern Asia, like avian influenza and rabies , can be shared between humans and animals. Avian influenza is a viral infection that can spread quickly and easily among birds. In rare cases, it can infect people.

Crowded conditions can increase your risk of certain illnesses. Remember to wash your hands often and practice proper cough and sneeze etiquette to avoid colds, the flu and other illnesses. 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.

Hand, foot, and mouth disease is a common viral illness that mainly affects infants and children. Travellers are at increased risk if visiting or living in overcrowded conditions. There is no vaccine or medication that protects against this disease. Tuberculosis is an infection caused by bacteria and usually affects the lungs. Travellers who may be at high risk while travelling in regions with risk of tuberculosis should discuss pre- and post-travel options with a health care professional.

High-risk travellers include those visiting or working in prisons, refugee camps, homeless shelters, or hospitals, or travellers visiting friends and relatives. Private hospitals and clinics located in cities are often better staffed and equipped than public or rural facilities. Establishments may require confirmation of health insurance coverage, guarantee of payment or an up-front deposit before admitting patients. Medical evacuation may be necessary in the case of serious injury or illness, and it may cost tens of thousands of dollars or more, depending on the location and severity of the condition.

Psychiatric or psychological facilities and services in Thailand may not meet international standards. Canadians with mental illness have been committed to state facilities, arrested and deported. Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

How should I get around?

Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres. You are subject to local laws. Foreigners are required to carry identification at all times. Carry a photocopy of your passport. Police may still require that you produce the original. Failure to provide internationally recognized ID could result in detention. Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are very severe and include the death penalty for serious offences.

The possession of even small amounts of illegal drugs, including marijuana, can result in severe fines and prison sentences. Arrested offenders may be prevented from leaving Thailand while legal proceedings are in process. Police perform spot-checks to search for illegal drugs, particularly in and around entertainment venues.

Uniformed or undercover police may search pockets, purses and bags, as well as vehicles. You may be asked to consent to a urine test. Convicted offenders can expect heavy fines or jail sentences of up to 10 years. Foreigners have been arrested and fined for possession of vaporisers and e-cigarettes, even for personal use. 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.

Any public statement, including those posted online, that is perceived to be critical of the political situation in Thailand, the National Council for Peace and Order or the Royal Thai Army could lead to detention and legal charges. A smoking ban is in effect on several beaches across the country and is punishable by a ,baht fine and up to 1 year in prison. Check with local authorities and look for no-smoking signs before smoking on a beach. Feeding fish in the ocean is illegal and punishable by a ,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. More about the International Driving Permit. 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. Commercial surrogacy is illegal in Thailand. Seek independent legal advice if you are visiting Thailand for the purposes of commercial surrogacy arrangements. If you have already entered into a surrogacy arrangement, you should also seek advice from a local lawyer on exit requirements.

If local authorities consider you a citizen of Thailand, they may refuse to grant you access to Canadian consular services. This will prevent us from providing you with those services. General information for travellers with dual citizenship. A child born abroad of Thai parents who obtains the citizenship of the country of birth is allowed to retain dual citizenship until the age of Upon reaching 18, the person must renounce the other citizenship or Thai citizenship will be lost. 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. There is an elevated risk of floods in northern and northeastern Thailand, due to an early monsoon and a dam collapse in Attapeu province in Laos. The following provinces are particularly at risk:. The Tourism Authority of Thailand offers general advice for tourists. Dial and press 9 for English. For emergency consular assistance, call the embassy of Canada in Bangkok and follow the instructions.

There are no significant safety and security concerns. The overall safety and security situation is similar to that of Canada. You should take normal security precautions. There are identifiable safety and security concerns or the safety and security situation could change with little notice. You should exercise a high degree of caution at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities. The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country may be compromised.

There are specific safety and security concerns that could put you at risk. You should reconsider your need to travel to the country, territory or region. If you are already in the country, territory or region, you should reconsider whether or not you really need to be there. If not, you should consider leaving while it is still safe to do so. There is an extreme risk to your personal safety and security. You should not travel to this country, territory or region. If you are already in the country, territory or region, you should consider leaving if it is safe to do so.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad.

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We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad. The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, express or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services. Learn more about consular services.