|
|
|
|
|
|
Print Version
|
|
TRAVEL REPORT
|
|
Last Updated: December 8, 2006 18:12
EST
Still Valid: December 8, 2006 21:57
EST
|
| Thailand |
|
|
|
1. INTRODUCTION
The level of Travel Warning in this report has not changed. Section 2 has been updated.
BACK TO TOP
2. ATTENTION
Following a bloodless military coup on September 19, 2006, an interim constitution and prime minister were put in place on October 1. Some minor protests against the coup have occurred. Canadians should avoid political demonstrations and stay away from areas where they might occur. The current situation in Bangkok and throughout the country remains calm, despite the coup. While not overtly visible, martial law is still in effect nationwide.
Effective September 28, 2006, all domestic and international flights to and from Bangkok will permanently shift from the Bangkok International Airport (Don Muang) to the new Suvarnabhumi Airport. Travellers should expect delays and disruptions in the initial weeks following the opening, as all systems may not be fully functional. Travellers should also allow for extra time to arrive at the new airport, as it is located approximately 30 km east of Bangkok. For additional information, maps, and transportation advice, please see: www.airportthai.co.th and www.bangkokairportonline.com.
See our Current Issues page for information on Avian Influenza.
OFFICIAL WARNING: Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada advises against all travel to the region(s) specified below. (IDW5)
You are advised against all travel to the far southern provinces of Narathiwat, Pattani, Yala, and Songkhla (including the city of Hat Yai), where almost daily attacks continue to occur including attacks with firearms, bombings, beheadings, arsons, and attacks with knives. There is no indication that the frequency of the attacks will decrease. On September 16, 2006, bombs exploded in Hat Yai (Songkhla Province), killing several foreigners, including one Canadian.
While we have received no reports that would suggest the timing, methodology or location of attacks in southern Thailand, there have been reports to suggest that such planning is underway. Armed attacks, arson, and bombings have occurred in schools, places of worship, shopping districts, open markets, government offices, police stations, military posts, and an entertainment venue. These attacks have resulted in numerous deaths and injuries.
In July 2005, the Thai government enacted a State of Emergency Decree (which is still in effect), giving the Prime Minister sweeping new powers to quell the ongoing violence in the region. A “severe state of emergency” was declared in the three predominantly Muslim provinces of Yala, Pattani and Narathiwat, giving the authorities powers to detain suspects without charge, censor the media, conduct searches and seize objects or documents.
While we have received no reports that would suggest the timing, methodology or location of attacks in southern Thailand, there have been reports to suggest that such planning is being undertaken. Armed attacks, arson, and bombings have occurred in schools, places of worship, shopping districts, open markets, government offices, police stations, military posts, and an entertainment venue. These attacks have resulted in numerous deaths and injuries.
You are also advised against travel to border areas with Burma (Myanmar) that are off the main highways due to occasional violence, banditry and clashes between government forces, rebel units and drug traffickers. These incidents have sporadically resulted in live ammunition falling inside Thailand's borders. Clashes between Thai security forces and armed criminal gangs have also occurred. Travellers should consult the Thai Tourist Police to determine if official border crossing points are open. Borders should be crossed at designated crossing points only, with the required travel documentation.
There is a heightened threat of terrorism throughout Southeast Asia, including Thailand. Canadians should maintain a high level of personal security awareness at all times as the security situation could deteriorate rapidly without notice. Canadians are advised to exercise caution, particularly in commercial and public establishments (hotels, clubs, restaurants, bars, schools, places of worship, outdoor recreation events), tourist areas frequented by foreigners, and on public transportation. Reports suggest that there is an ongoing terrorist threat in Thailand and attacks could occur at any time, anywhere, throughout the Kingdom. While we have no evidence to suggest that Canadians will be directly targeted, there is a risk of becoming an inadvertent victim of a terrorist attack.
OFFICIAL REGISTRATION RECOMMENDATION: Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada offers a registration service for Canadians travelling or residing abroad. Canadians who choose to travel to the region(s) specified despite this warning should register with the responsible Canadian government office in this country. Registration can be done on-line or by calling the responsible Canadian government office abroad to request a registration form. Canadians visiting other areas of the country for three months or more should also register. Canadians visiting for less than three months are strongly advised to: (a) leave a detailed travel itinerary and contact information with family or friends in Canada; (b) provide family with the emergency number for Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada (1 800 267-6788 or 613-944-6788); and (c) keep the phone number of the responsible Canadian government office on hand (see Section 7 below).
BACK TO TOP
3. SAFETY AND SECURITY
Petty crime, such as purse snatching, pickpocketing, and theft, are common. Bags should not be left unattended. Exercise normal safety precautions and ensure personal belongings are secure, especially in tourist areas, crowded markets, and bus or train stations. Thieves sometimes use razors to slit open purses or bags to remove the contents. There are reports of criminals causing confusion on crowded escalators to facilitate theft. Only use reputable transportation companies. Thefts have been reported on inexpensive buses and vans travelling from Bangkok to southern tourist and beach destinations. Break-ins frequently occur while tourists are asleep in budget guesthouses.
Travellers should be particularly cautious during full moon parties. Ensure passports are secure. Never accept food or drinks from strangers and do not leave food or drinks unattended, particularly in bars. Cases of drugging followed by robbery and assault have occurred. Tourists have been approached by seemingly friendly strangers, often posing as fellow travellers, offering drugged food or drinks. Criminals sometimes use the drug scopolamine to incapacitate travellers in order to rob them. The drug is administered through drinks, food, aerosols, cigarettes, gum, or in powder form. The drug disorients the victim and can cause prolonged unconsciousness and serious medical problems. It takes effect extremely quickly and can take several days to wear off.
Sexual assaults against foreign women have occurred. Female travellers should exercise caution at all times. Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada publishes a booklet, Her Own Way, specifically targeted at female travellers. Its prime objective is to inform and inspire Canadian women to travel safely.
Travellers arriving by air should use licensed taxis from official taxi stands, limousine services, official airport buses, or arrange to be picked up by hotel shuttle services. Robberies and occasional violence have occurred when passengers engaged unlicensed taxi drivers away from official taxi stands. Do not share a taxi with strangers.
Poisonous jellyfish off Hat Rin beach of Koh Phangan have resulted in deaths. Exercise extreme caution when swimming in the area during the rainy season, particularly at night and during high tide when it may be more difficult to spot the jellyfish. If stung, immediate hospital attention is required. Riptides along the coast near Phuket are strong. There have been a number of drownings.
Travellers who participate in water sports and scuba diving should be aware that diving schools and rescue services may not be consistent with international standards. Water sports equipment should be rented from operators affiliated to major international training organizations.
Pirate attacks and armed robbery against ships in Southeast Asia occur. Mariners should take appropriate precautions. For additional information, see the Weekly Piracy Report published by the Commercial Crime Services division of the International Chamber of Commerce.
Scams
Elaborate scams involving gems occur. Taxi or tuk-tuk drivers, along with others often posing as students or even other foreign travellers, will inform tourists of special gem promotions or government sales at specific gem shops. The value of the purchased items is usually negligible, despite the prices asked. Offers of money-back guarantees by the shop are often not honoured, and Thai consulates abroad cannot provide refunds. Victims of a scam should report the incident to the Tourist Police or contact the Tourist Assistance Centre by calling 1155 toll-free. More information on gem scams can be found on the Thai Tourist Police Web site at http://tourist.police.go.th/eng/Jewelry.php.
Travellers, usually alone, have been victims of card scams. They have been approached in public places with invitations to participate in card games offering attractive opportunities for winning large amounts of money. These invitations should be refused, as gambling is illegal in Thailand, and participants face a significant threat of being victims of a scam or possible violence. If asked to make withdrawals on credit cards to participate in these illegal games, you should refuse. Victims have lost thousands of dollars before realizing they were being scammed.
Another scam involves rented motorcycles. Travellers usually sign a contract and often leave their passport as collateral when renting a motorcycle. Overnight, the motorcycle is "stolen," and the owner will hold the passport and/or demand compensation to cover the cost of replacing the bike. Usually, the bike is not properly insured and the contract stipulates that the hiring party is liable for all costs in case of damage or theft. Canadians should only rent from reputable companies, ensure that the motorcycle is correctly insured to cover damages and theft, and check the fine print of the contract carefully. Victims should report such scams to the local or Tourist Police. Canadian passports may not be used as collateral (as assurance for debts, rental of motorcycles, etc.). Travellers whose passports are inaccessible or stolen as a result of such misuse may be subject to investigation by Passport Canada and may receive limited passport services.
BACK TO TOP
4. LOCAL TRAVEL
Traffic drives on the left. Paved roads connect major cities, but most have only two lanes. Serious bus accidents caused by dangerous road conditions, poor weather, driver fatigue, and driver consumption of metaphetamines have occurred. Slow-moving trucks limit speed and visibility. Speeding and reckless passing is common. Motorists should avoid mountain roads at night, especially during the rainy season (July-October). Boats can be overcrowded and may lack adequate safety equipment. As a result, accidents resulting in fatalities have occasionally occurred.
Driving or riding motorcycles in Thailand is dangerous and should be avoided, even by experienced motorcyclists. Substandard road conditions and local disregard for traffic laws result in frequent accidents that cause serious and even fatal injuries to foreigners, particularly in the resort areas of Pattaya, Phuket and Koh Samui. Although motorcycles can be easily rented in Thailand, Canadians are reminded that 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 drivers and passengers, but many helmets do not meet international safety standards. Men are forbidden to ride as a passenger on a motorcycle in Yala, Pattani and Narathiwat provinces. Motorcyclists are required to carry their identification card, driver's licence and vehicle registration book at all times.
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is required.
BACK TO TOP
5. NATURAL DISASTERS AND CLIMATE
The rainy (or monsoon) season extends from July to October. Severe rainstorms can cause flash floods and mudslides, interrupt essential services, and delay overland travel, especially in remote locations. Jungle treks are not advisable during this time of year, due to the possibility of mudslides. Trekkers should use licensed reliable tour guides.
See our Current Issues page for information on typhoons and monsoons.
BACK TO TOP
6. LOCAL LAWS AND CUSTOMS
You are subject to local laws. A serious violation may lead to a jail or death sentence. The sentence will be served in local prisons.However, Canada and Thailand have a treaty that permits a Canadian imprisoned in Thailand to request a transfer to Canada to complete the sentence in a Canadian prison. The transfer requires the agreement of both Canadian and Thai authorities.
Canadians arrested or detained have the right to contact the responsible Canadian government office (embassy, high commission, etc.) listed in Section 7 below. Arresting officials have a responsibility to assist you in doing so. Canadian consular officials can provide a list of local lawyers upon request.
The Department publishes A Guide for Canadians Imprisoned Abroad, specifically targeted at incarcerated Canadians. Its prime objective is to inform Canadian detainees, their families, and friends about available assistance and advice.
Enforcement action against people involved in all aspect of illicit drugs has increased significantly. Canadians are reminded that Thai laws regarding illegal drugs are very strict 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/or prison sentences.
Visitors should be aware that night-time police spot-checks to search for illegal drugs have become common in and around entertainment venues in Thailand. Uniformed or undercover police may search pockets, purses, and bags, as well as vehicles. You may be asked to consent to a urine test. If you carry prescription or other medicines, it is preferable that they be in clearly marked, original packaging. Foreigners are required to carry identification at all times. Great care should be taken if you carry your passport, especially in entertainment venues. You may wish to carry a photocopy of your passport; however, police may require that you produce the original.
Gambling is illegal in Thailand and gambling-related scams are common. It is a criminal offence in Thailand to make any derogatory or insulting comments about the King or other members of the Royal family. Any person making such comments is liable to arrest and prosecution. Purposely tearing or destroying Thai bank notes, which carry an image of the King, may be considered such an offense.
BACK TO TOP
7. ASSISTANCE FOR CANADIANS ABROAD
You can obtain consular assistance and further consular information at the following addresses:
Thailand - BANGKOK, Embassy of Canada
Address: 15th Floor, Abdulrahim Place, 990 Rama IV, Bangrak, Bangkok 10500, Thailand
Postal Address: P.O. Box 2090, Bangkok 10501, Thailand
Tel.: 66 (2) 636-0540
Fax: 66 (2) 636-0555
E-mail: bngkk@international.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.bangkok.gc.ca
Thailand - CHIANG MAI, Consulate of Canada
Address: 151 Super Highway, Tambon Tahsala, Amphur Muang, Chiang Mai 50000, Thailand
Tel.: 66 (53) 850-147 or 242-292
Fax: 66 (53) 850-147 or 850-616
E-mail: cancon@loxinfo.co.th
For emergency assistance after hours, call the Embassy of Canada in Bangkok and follow the instructions. You may also call the Department in Ottawa toll-free at 001-800-156-220-0142 or use the services offered by Canada Direct.
Canada Direct, offered by Canada's major telecommunications companies, provides travellers with toll-free and hassle-free access to the Canadian telephone network. The Canada Direct access number from Thailand is 001-999-15-1000, where a Canadian operator is always available. For more information, call 1 800 561-8868 or visit the Canada Direct Web site.
BACK TO TOP
8. ENTRY/EXIT REQUIREMENTS
The following information on entry and exit requirements has been confirmed with the Thai authorities and, to the best of our knowledge, was valid on March 13, 2006. However, entry and exit requirements are subject to change.
It is the sole prerogative of each country to determine who is allowed to enter. All countries have special requirements for persons intending to reside for extended periods (usually more than 90 days) or who plan to work, study, or engage in non-tourist activities. To obtain information on specific entry requirements, contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the country or countries to be visited. Violations of entry and exit requirements may result in serious penalties.
Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada’s Office of Protocol provides contact details for the Royal Thai Embassy and its consulates, where you can obtain further information on entry and exit requirements.
A valid Canadian passport is required for Canadians intending to visit Thailand. The passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the date of your expected departure from the country. An onward or return ticket is also required.
Canadian tourists travelling on a Canadian passport may enter Thailand for a period of 30 days without a visa. This is known as a "visa exemption." A visa is required for longer stays. As of October 1, 2006, the Thai Immigration Bureau has issued new regulations regarding "visa exemption" entry. They state that Canadians can "enter into the Kingdom of Thailand without [a] visa and remain in Thailand for 30 days per visit. However, the total duration of stay should not exceed 90 days within a six month period, counting from the date of first entry." Therefore, tourists who stay for the maximum 90 days within a six-month period must leave Thailand for at least 90 days before they will be allowed to re-enter, unless they obtain a valid visa from a Thai embassy or consulate in another country. This new regulation is not retroactive; therefore, the initial 90-day period will begin on October 1, 2006.
Travellers must obtain 30-day entry stamps themselves from an immigration officer at a point of entry into Thailand. You must pass through the immigration checkpoint in person; it is illegal for someone else to do this on your behalf. Visas must be obtained from Thai embassies or consulates. Visas, visa extensions, or entry stamps issued through visa shops or travel agents in Thailand should be avoided. Canadians are regularly apprehended for having improper Thai visas or entry and exit stamps inserted into their passports. Moreover, a passport that has been altered or that contains counterfeit visas and entry/exit stamps is technically invalid. Offenders can expect jail sentences, fines, and/or deportation and may also be prohibited from entering Thailand in the future. It is illegal to work on a tourist visa.
Canadians who have a Tourist Visa, Business Visa, Student Visa or Working Visa for Thailand are exempt from these new regulations.
Overstaying your visa is considered an offence under Thai law. It will result in a fine of 500 baht per day and can also lead to detention and deportation. Foreigners are permitted to stay only up to the date indicated on the Thai entry stamp, regardless of the date indicated on a Thai visa. The Royal Thai Police have increased their random checks of foreigners, and Canadians found to have overstayed their visas have been arrested.
Canadians transiting via Singapore or Hong Kong for Thailand will not be permitted to board connecting flights without a six-month validity period remaining on their passports.
Visa Exemption: Not required (for stays of up to 30 days)
Tourist Visa: Required
Business Visa: Required
Student Visa: Required
Working Visa: Required
An airport tax of 500 baht is required upon departure on international flights. This is scheduled to increase to 700 baht on February 1, 2007. Taxes on domestic flights will increase from 50 baht to 100 baht, but are usually included in the ticket price. The exception is domestic flights from Samui Airport, which levies a 300 baht tax.
Selling, altering, or allowing another person to use your passport is a criminal offence. It could lead to the laying of charges and imprisonment if convicted. It could also lead to the denial of future passport services.
Special and diplomatic passport holders should verify visa requirements for this and other countries, as they may differ from those that apply to regular passport holders.
Any adult travelling with children may be required to show evidence of parental/custodial and/or access rights. Foreign and Canadian authorities may also require evidence that the adult has the consent of the parents, legal guardian, and/or the court to travel with the children. Some countries may not permit children to enter or, in some cases, leave the country without proper documentation such as a letter of consent or a court order.
Although same-sex marriages are legal in Canada, many countries do not recognize them. Attempting to enter as a same-sex married couple may result in refusal by local officials. For more information, contact the foreign government office accredited to Canada.
BACK TO TOP
9. MONEY
The currency is the baht. Major credit cards are widely accepted. Traveller's cheques are accepted at banks, large hotels, and shops. U.S. dollar traveller's cheques are recommended. Check with your bank for information on ATM services in other countries.
Check with your bank for information on ATM services in other countries. You can also check the VISA ATM locator page or the MasterCard ATM locator page for the addresses of ATMs around the world. Your bank can advise if you need a new personal identification number (PIN) for overseas access to your account. Credit cards and debit cards should be used with caution due to the potential for fraud and other criminal activity. ATMs should be used during business hours inside a bank, supermarket, or large commercial building. Leave copies of your card numbers with a family member in case of emergency.
BACK TO TOP
10. GENERAL INFORMATION
Thailand (capital: Bangkok) is located in Southeast Asia, bordered by Laos, Cambodia, the Gulf of Thailand, Malaysia, the Indian Ocean, and Burma (Myanmar). The official language is Thai. Tourist facilities and services are widely available.
BACK TO TOP
11. TRAVEL MEDICINE PROGRAM
The Public Health Agency of Canada and the World Health Organization (WHO) report on disease outbreaks that occur throughout the world. For the latest travel health advisories and related information, visit the Public Health Agency of Canada’s Travel Medicine Program Web site.
The Public Health Agency of Canada continues to closely monitor and report on occurrences of avian influenza A (H5N1), or "bird flu", in humans and in birds. Further information on avian influenza A (H5N1) and recommendations for travellers can be found on the Public Health Agency of Canada's Travel Medicine Web site as well as on the World Health Organization's Web site. For more information, see our Current Issues on Avian Influenza.
The Public Health Agency of Canada strongly recommends that your travel plans include contacting a travel medicine clinic or physician six to eight weeks before departure. Based on your individual risk assessment, a health care professional can determine your need for immunizations and/or preventive medication and advise you on precautions to avoid disease. Travellers are reminded to ensure that their routine (childhood) immunizations (e.g., tetanus, diphtheria, polio, and measles) are up to date.
Standards of medical care may differ from those in Canada. Treatment may be expensive, and payment in advance may be required. Travellers are advised to arrange for medical insurance prior to departure. Prescription medications should be kept in the original container and packed in carry-on luggage.
The Public Health Agency of Canada also recommends that travellers who become sick or feel unwell on their return to Canada seek a medical assessment with their personal physician. Travellers should inform their physician that they have been travelling or living outside of Canada.
BACK TO TOP
12. ADDITIONAL HEALTH INFORMATION
In some areas of Thailand, proof of insurance may be required to obtain emergency medical care. Emergency evacuation may cost tens of thousands of dollars or more, depending on the location and severity of the condition. Medical care varies in quality across the country. Travellers in need of medical care are encouraged to go to Bangkok, where hospitals that meet international standards may be found.
Rabies vaccination is recommended due to numerous stray dogs throughout Bangkok.
BACK TO TOP
13. RETURNING TO CANADA
Please consult the Current Issue on returning to Canada.
BACK TO TOP
14. INTERNATIONAL ADOPTIONS
Provincial and territorial authorities in Canada are responsible for authorizing international adoptions. If you are thinking of adopting a child from another country, you must first obtain information about the adoption regulations of the province or territory in which the child will reside. While adoption is a provincial/territorial responsibility, Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) is responsible for allowing an adopted child entry into Canada. Entry can be refused if the child does not hold the appropriate immigrant visa. A visa may be denied, even if the adoption has already been completed. For more information contact CIC at 1 888 242-2100 (in Canada only), check the CIC Web site or contact your provincial or territorial government.
BACK TO TOP
15. TRAVEL TIPS
Please consult our Traveller's Checklist.
BACK TO TOP
16. HEALTH AND TRAVEL INSURANCE
Do not rely on your provincial health plan to cover all expenses if you get sick or are injured while abroad. It may cover nothing or only a portion of the costs. Understand the terms of your supplementary insurance policy. Some credit cards offer their holders health and travel insurance. Do not assume the card alone provides adequate coverage. Carry details of your insurance with you. Also, tell your travel agent, a friend or relative, and/or travelling companion how to contact your insurer. Get a detailed invoice from the doctor or hospital before you return to Canada. Always submit original receipts for any medical services or prescriptions received abroad. Most insurance companies will not accept copies or faxes.
Cancelling a scheduled trip abroad could cost you money. Before cancelling a scheduled trip, you should discuss the matter with your travel agent, your travel insurer, or the airline. The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller.
BACK TO TOP
17. FOR MORE INFORMATION
N/A
BACK TO TOP
18. ANNEX
N/A
BACK TO TOP
|
|
