From Red24:
Thailand is one of the most popular destinations for visitors to South East Asia. It has a well-developed tourism infrastructure, and most visits are trouble free. However, the country does have a history of political instability and has experienced a number of military coups since 1932. Following the latest coup, on 19 September 2006, and the ousting of then Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, the political landscape of the country has been uncertain, with regular changes in leadership; much of this uncertainty has been driven by large-scale and persistent anti-government protests. In 2008, a wave of anti-government protests by the People’s Alliance for Democracy (PAD) led to a political crisis in the country. The PAD held regular protests outside government buildings in Bangkok and occupied Government House for a number of months in protest against the People's Power Party (PPP) government. The protests also led to significant travel delays when PAD supporters occupied Bangkok's two main airports. The political situation calmed following a Constitutional Court decision in December 2008 to ban the PPP, and the election of former opposition leader and head of the Democratic Party, Abhisit Vejjajiva, as the new prime minister. Although the inauguration of the new prime minister initially brought some semblance of order to the country, there continues to be resentment towards the new government by the former ruling party and pro-Thaksin elements. In particular, the United Front for Democracy Against Dictatorship (UDD) – commonly referred to as the 'red shirts' – has grown into a strong anti-government force, carrying out regular anti-government protests in Bangkok and other towns. Although most of these have been peaceful, the potential for violence remains a concern and all large gatherings should be avoided.
Thailand has a low level of crime, but foreign tourists are targeted by petty thieves and scam artists; care should be taken to protect against becoming a victim of crime. Terrorism is a concern in the country, particularly in the southern provinces of Yala, Narathiwat, Pattani and Songkhla due to an ongoing Islamist insurgency; as such, red24 currently rates these areas as extreme risk and advises against all travel there. Terrorist incidents have also taken place in other parts of the country, but to a much lesser degree. Concerns about the safety of foreign travellers were raised following a series of bombings in Bangkok on 31 December 2006 and on 30 January 2007. Although the government has increased security throughout the city, the threat of further incidents remains. In addition, tensions have escalated between Thailand and neighbouring Cambodia since 2008 over ownership of the Preah Vihear temple (Khao Pra Viharn in Thai), and fighting has sporadically occurred between Thai and Cambodian troops over this disputed border area. The temple area is currently calm but remains closed to visitors; travellers are advised to avoid the area.
Overall risk rating
Overall High
red24 rates this country as high risk. We do not advise against travel to the country but do advise against all travel to certain areas. A high degree of caution is advised.
Risk rating breakdown
Crime Low
Low levels of petty crime and low threat of physical harm.
Terrorism High
Specific terrorist threats with sporadic attacks.
Conflict High
Ongoing threat of conflict in the southern provinces due to an Islamist insurgency.
Political High
Ongoing political instability since 2006 coup. Regular incidents of civil unrest.
Kidnap Low
Minimal or no reported kidnapping activity to both locals and visitors.
Infrastructure Medium
Main cities and towns have sound infrastructure, but limited in rural areas.
Extreme Regions
We currently advise against all travel to the following regions within this country
Yala, Narathiwat, Pattani and Songkhla (Terrorism - Conflict)
Islamist insurgents in these four provinces of southern Thailand are broadening their target selection, and are conducting increasingly sophisticated and synchronised bombing campaigns. This terrorist campaign is likely to continue for the foreseeable future, posing an extreme risk to locals and foreigners alike.