Is it safe to travel to Thailand now? Latest advisory update

Thailand remains one of the safest destinations in Southeast Asia, but the recent resumption of border conflicts with Cambodia has made travel to that area inadvisable.

All areas within approx 50 kilometers from the Cambodian border are currently subject to advisories due to active armed clashes, artillery fire and evacuations on both sides of the border. This includes border areas of provinces such as Sa Kaeo, Surin, Sisaket, Ubon Ratchathani, Buriram, Chanthaburi and Trat

LATEST UPDATES OF THAILAND AND CAMBODIA CONFLICT NEWS (December 11):

• says Cambodia Thai fighter jets have launched new airstrikes along the disputed border as both sides trade heavy artillery and rocket fire and accuse each other of violating border sovereignty. Source: iNFOnews.ca

• AP reporting updated in recent hours says about this two dozen people have been killed so far, with Thailand confirming nine soldiers and four civilians killed, while Cambodia reporting 11 civilian deaths and 74 injuriesand hundreds of thousands of people have been displaced on both sides of the border. Source: wdio.com

• New AFP/France 24 coverage describes Evacuees in Thai and Cambodian shelters are deeply divided over Donald Trump’s promised mediationSome hope he can enforce a ceasefire, while others are wary of greater foreign involvement. Source: france24.com

The battle between Thailand and Cambodia has entered its fourth day, with cross-border shelling and air strikes involving more than 500,000 citizens from both sides of the border to flee their homes and seek shelteras each government blames the other for reigniting the conflict.

“Citizens have had to evacuate in large numbers due to what we considered an imminent threat to their safety,” Thai Defense Ministry spokesman Surasant Kongsiri said.

December 10: The Cambodian U.S. Embassy issues a travel alert warning Americans not to travel to the border areas between Thailand and Cambodia.

December 8: US Embassy in Thailand issues travel warning

The US Embassy in Thailand has issued an urgent security alert as armed clashes intensified along the Thailand-Cambodia border on December 8, 2025. Americans are being urged to avoid all travel within 30 miles of the border due to artillery exchanges, small arms fire and rapidly deteriorating security conditions.

Thai authorities Sa Kaeo, Surin and Sisaket are warning residents to stay alert and prepare for possible evacuations, while schools and roads near the border face disruptions. Early displacement of civilians has been reported. Travelers should monitor official updates, expect limited access in affected areas, and sign up for STEP for real-time alerts.

Official travel advice

American travel advice for Thailand

The US Department of State continues to list Thailand below Level 1: Practice normal precautions.

However, it advises travelers to do so reconsider travel to the provinces of Yala, Pattani, Narathiwatand parts of Songkhla due to continued insurgent activities and civil unrest.

Canada Travel advice for Thailand

The Canadian government is warning travelers about frequent petty crimes, including:

• Taking wallets
• Pickpocketing
• Theft from the luggage compartment of buses

Travelers are urged to use reputable transportation companies and remain vigilant in busy tourist areas.

Areas to avoid in Thailand

Both US and Canadian authorities recommend avoiding the following:

• Jala
• Pattani
• Narathiwat
• Songkhla (southern districts)

These provinces continue to experience violent separatist conflicts and ethnic tensions.

Moreover, due to the new escalated situation, travelers should avoid it all regions bordering Myanmar, Cambodia and Malaysiawhere armed conflict, instability and landmines pose serious risks.

The northern border districts near Myanmar (e.g. Mae Sot) are currently warranted increased caution.

Common scams in Thailand

Although Thailand is generally safe, scams targeting tourists are common:

Taxi overloaded

Taxi drivers can refuse to use the meter and demand high prices. If the driver does not turn on the meter, take another taxi.

Trick “Closed attraction”.

Some tuk tuk or taxi drivers falsely claim that your destination is closed and direct you to partner shops or gemstone shops. Politely insist on continuing to your original destination.

Nightlife scams

Some bars may jack up drink prices or stage fake police raids to extort tourists. Ask for police ID if you are confronted.

Fake currency exchange fees

Unscrupulous currency exchangers may offer inaccurate rates. Check benchmarks online and count money before you leave the counter.

Fake gemstones

Gemstone scams are common, especially in Bangkok. Only buy from reputable, certified dealers.

Tuk-Tuk scam

Many tuk-tuk drivers refuse to use meters and charge high fees. Agree on a final price before the ride starts.

Safety tips for Thailand

• Do not leave drinks unattended: Incidents involving drinking peaks occur.
• Avoid showing large amounts of cash: Keep valuables discreet.
• Don’t discuss the Thai monarchy: Even unintentional insults can lead to serious legal consequences.
• Avoid red light districts: Higher risk of theft, drugging and fraud.
• Avoid drug use: Tourists were set up by dealers who demanded bribes.
• Never give your passport as collateral: Instead, use rental companies that accept deposits.
• Bring spare money: ATMs can be unreliable or cards can be lost.
• Back up your travel documents: Keep originals safe.
• Avoid traveling to border areas prone to violence: Especially near Myanmar, Cambodia and Malaysia.