Government of Canada

[Braveheart]

1. RECENT UPDATES

 

The level of Travel Warning in this report has not changed.

 

Section 9 of this Travel Report has been updated (discount airlines).

 

For information on Avian Influenza, see our Global Issues page.

 

For information on the transmission of dengue fever, please consult the Public Health Agency of Canada's Web site.

2. WARNINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

 

Thailand - Exercise high degree of caution

 

Effective June 24, 2008, Cambodian authorities have closed the border crossing at the Preah Vihear temple between Preah Vihear province in Cambodia and Sisaket province in Thailand. Additional troops have been deployed on both sides of the border. Canadians should stay away from this area.

 

On September 19, 2006, the military ousted the civilian government in a coup d'état. Democratic elections have since been held and a new government was sworn in on February 7, 2008. Martial law remains in effect in approximately one-third of the country.

 

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.

 

Regional Warning - Avoid all travel

 

OFFICIAL WARNING: Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada advises 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 have been numerous deadly attacks on both military and civilian targets in 2008.

 

On June 22, 2008, an armed attack aboard a passenger train travelling on the Sungai Kolok-Yala line left four people dead. On March 15, 2008, a car bomb exploded in the parking lot of a popular hotel and conference venue in Pattani, killing two and wounding thirteen. On September 16, 2006, bombs exploded in Hat Yai (Songkhla Province), killing several foreigners, including one Canadian.

 

A curfew has been declared in Taha and Bannang Sata Districts of Yala province between 20:00 and 04:00. Dressing in military or police style clothing is prohibited. New arrivals in the district must register with the military and usage and possession of radio communication equipment is prohibited.

 

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.

 

OFFICIAL REGISTRATION RECOMMENDATION: We offer a registration service for all Canadians travelling or living abroad. This service is provided so that we can contact and assist you in an emergency abroad, such as a natural disaster or civil unrest, or inform you of a family emergency at home. Registration can be done on-line or by contacting a Canadian government office abroad. For more information, see our FAQs on Registration of Canadians Abroad.

 

3. SAFETY AND SECURITY

 

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. Travellers are responsible for their own personal safety. The Government of Canada takes the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provides credible and timely advice in its Travel Reports. In the event of a crisis situation that requires evacuation, the Government of Canada’s policy is to provide safe transportation to the closest safe location. Canada will assist Canadians in leaving a country or a region as a last resort, when all means of commercial or personal transportation have been exhausted. This service is provided on a cost-recovery basis. Onward travel is at the individual’s personal expense. Situations vary from one location to another, and there may be constraints on government resources, which can limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide assistance, particularly in countries or regions where the potential for violent conflict or political instability are high.

 

Significant political demonstrations have resumed in the capital, Bangkok. Canadians should avoid all demonstrations and stay away from areas where they might occur. Travellers are reminded that protests can turn violent without warning and a gathering, regardless of its size, may become a target for a terrorist threat or attack. Canadians should be aware that demonstrations are usually accompanied by a heightened police presence and traffic delays.

 

Canadians should exercise caution when travelling to the border areas with Burma (Myanmar). Occasional violence, banditry and clashes between government forces, rebel units and drug traffickers have been reported. Travellers should consult the Thai Tourist Police, by calling 1155 toll-free, to determine if official border crossing points are open. Borders should be crossed at designated crossing points only, with the required travel documentation.

 

Petty crime, such as purse snatching, pickpocketing, and theft, is common. Bags should not be left unattended. Exercise 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. Only use reputable transportation companies. Thefts have been reported on buses and vans travelling between Bangkok and southern tourist/beach destinations. Break-ins occur at budget guesthouses, sometimes while guests are asleep in the room.

 

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. Unlicensed vehicles (black and white license plates) are not properly insured to carry passengers and may not use meters. Do not share a taxi with strangers.

 

Although not specifically targeted, Canadians have occasionally been victims of violent crime. In early 2008, there were three separate gun-related incidents involving four Canadians. Travellers should maintain a high level of personal security awareness at all times.

 

Travellers should be particularly cautious during "Full Moon Parties" on Koh Pha-ngan. Passport thefts and losses are extremely common and their replacement may cause you significant travel delays. 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 sexual assault have occurred. Tourists have been approached by seemingly friendly strangers, often posing as fellow travellers, offering drugged food or drinks. Drugs may be administered through drinks, food, aerosols, cigarettes, gum, or in powder form. Canadians who suspect they have been drugged should seek immediate medical attention.

 

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.

 

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. If stung, immediate hospital attention is required.

 

Riptides in costal areas can be strong, including the popular destinations of Phuket, Koh Samui, Pattaya, Rayong, and Cha-am/Hua Hin. There have been a number of deaths due to drowning. Travellers should heed flag warnings and should under no circumstances swim when a red flag is displayed.

 

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

 

Numerous scams involving tourists occur. Specifically, foreigners have become targets for scams concerning gems. Merchants will sell lower-quality gems at inflated prices and while money-back guarantees are offered, they are not always honoured.

 

Travellers should also be aware that invitations to join card games for money should be refused, as they are usually a con. Moreover, this type of gambling is illegal.

 

Canadians are reminded not to leave their passport as collateral when renting motorcycles. All rental contracts should be read thoroughly to ensure that the motorcycle is correctly insured to cover damages and theft. Canadians should only rent from reputable companies, as some companies have been known to "steal" the motorcycle and claim for loss. Travellers whose passports are inaccessible or stolen as a result of misuse may be subject to investigation by Passport Canada and may receive limited passport services.

 

When dealing with travel agencies, foreigners should ensure the company is a reputable tour organization before providing payment. Disputes may be reported to the Tourism Authority of Thailand at 1672 toll-free.

 

Victims of crime or scams should report the incident to the Thai police in the jurisdiction where the incident occurred, and before leaving Thailand. You may contact the Tourist Police and the Tourist Assistance Centre by calling 1155 toll-free.

 

4. ENTRY/EXIT REQUIREMENTS

 

It is the sole prerogative of each country or region to determine who is allowed to enter. All countries or regions 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 destination(s) to be visited. Violations of entry and exit requirements may result in serious penalties.

 

The following information on entry and exit requirements has been confirmed with the Thai authorities. However, these requirements are subject to change at any time. It is the traveller’s responsibility to check with the Royal Thai Embassy and its consulates, for up-to-date information. More information is available at the Thai Immigration Bureau.

 

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 regular Canadian passport may enter Thailand without a visa for a stay of up to 30 days per visit. According to Thai law, holders of Canadian special and diplomatic passports are required to obtain a visa at a Thai diplomatic mission abroad. The total duration of stay in Thailand for persons who enter without a visa cannot exceed 90 days during any six-month period, counting from the date of first entry. 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.

 

Travellers must obtain an entry stamp from an immigration officer at a point of entry into Thailand. 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 have been arrested for having improper Thai visas or entry and exit stamps inserted into their passports. 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 or without a work permit.

 

All foreigners staying in Thailand longer than three months are required to notify the Thai Immigration Bureau of their residence every 90 days.

 

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.

 

Visa Exemption: Not required (for stays of up to 30 days)

Tourist Visa: Required (for stays of 31 – 60 days)

Business Visa: Required

Student Visa: Required

Working Visa: Required

 

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A Certificate of Canadian Citizenship is not a travel document. A Canadian passport is the only reliable and universally accepted travel and identification document available to Canadians for the purpose of international travel. Canadian citizens returning to Canada who present other documents, such as a Certificate of Canadian Citizenship, birth certificate, provincial driver’s license, or foreign passport, instead of a Canadian passport, may face delays or be denied boarding by transport companies.

 

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 all visa requirements for this and other destinations, 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 or regions may not permit children to enter or, in some cases, leave the country or region without proper documentation such as a letter of consent or a court order.

 

Although same-sex marriages are legal in Canada, many countries or regions 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.

6. TRAVEL HEALTH

 

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 Health 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 Global Issues page on Avian Influenza.

 

Since 2003, there have been 17 confirmed human deaths due to Avian Influenza in Thailand, according to the World Health Organization. There have been no deaths reported since September 2007. Travellers should avoid poultry farms, contact with animals in live-food markets, and any surfaces that appear to be contaminated with feces from poultry or other animals.

 

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.

 

Dengue fever is common in Thailand, and there has been a sharp increase in the number of cases in 2008. Residents and travellers are advised to take appropriate precautions to protect themselves from contracting dengue fever by using mosquito repellent (containing DEET), and avoiding swampy or low lying areas where mosquitoes are more prevalent. People experiencing flu-like symptoms are advised to seek medical attention immediately.

 

7. 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.

 

Several Canadians each year suffer episodes of psychiatric distress which can be brought on by pre-existing mental illness or as a result of illicit drug use. Thailand’s heat, noise and large crowds may also prove a challenge for some travellers. Psychiatric/ psychological facilities and services in Thailand may not meet international standards. Canadians with mental illness have been committed to state facilities, arrested and deported. Families and travellers should consult a medical professional before travelling. Many travel/medical insurance policies explicitly do not cover psychiatric care.

 

Rabies vaccination is recommended due to the large number of stray dogs throughout Bangkok.

 

8. 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.

 

Canadians arrested or detained have the right to contact the responsible Canadian government office (embassy, high commission, etc.) listed in Section 5 above. Arresting officials have a responsibility to assist you in doing so. Canadian consular officials can provide a list of local lawyers upon request.

 

The procedures required in legal proceedings or police investigations may be different from the procedures in force in the Canadian legal system. Canadians wishing to undertake such proceedings can expect to face long delays and additional efforts in order to resolve their case. The Government of Canada cannot intervene in ongoing legal proceedings in other countries or regions, unless requested to do so by local authorities. Such requests are rare.

 

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. Canadians may be prevented from leaving Thailand for several months while legal proceedings are in process.

 

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, with the exception of some horse-racing, 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 offence.

 

9. TRAVEL AND CURRENCY

 

Effective June 1, 2007, new airline security measures were introduced for all domestic and international flights departing from Thailand. These restrictions limit the quantities of Liquid, aerosols and gels taken on board the aircraft in carry-on baggage.

 

All international flights now operate out of the new Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK), located approximately 30 km east of Bangkok. Domestic flights with 3 digit flight numbers and the airport code BKK also operate at Suvarnabhumi Airport, while those with 4 digit flight numbers and the airport code DMK operate to/from Don Mueang Airport. Travellers should allow a minimum of 3 hours connection time between airports.

 

All passengers over 2 years of age using airport facilities in Thailand will be required to pay a passenger service charge. These fees are included in the ticket price for most passengers. Some domestic airlines and private airports may levy additional passenger service charges of 700 baht for international passengers and 100 baht for domestic passengers.

 

On September 16, 2007, a One-Two-Go passenger plane travelling from Bangkok crashed at the Phuket International Airport in southern Thailand, as it attempted to land during bad weather conditions. The accident caused more than 80 deaths including one Canadian.

 

Some local discount airlines have recently come under scrutiny and may not meet international safety standards. In July 2008, the Thai Civil Aviation Department ordered the temporary grounding of Orient Thai Airlines and its budget subsidiary One-Two-Go airlines due to safety concerns. Canadians should arrange transportation only through reputable companies.

 

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 intoxication 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.

 

Motorcycle accidents kill or maim several Canadians each year. Driving or riding motorcycles in Thailand is dangerous and should be avoided, even by experienced motorcyclists. Substandard road conditions, local disregard for traffic laws, and drunk driving result in frequent accidents, particularly in the areas of Bangkok, 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.

 

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The currency is the baht (THB). 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 Automated Banking Machine (ABM) services in other countries or regions. You can also check the VISA ATM locator page or the MasterCard ATM locator page for the addresses of ABMs 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. ABMs 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.

 

10. 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. Flash flooding in caves has caused fatalities.

 

See our Global Issues page for information on typhoons and monsoons.

 

11. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

 

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.

 

Adoption: Provincial and territorial authorities in Canada are responsible for authorizing international adoptions. If you are thinking of adopting a child abroad, 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.

 

Taken from: http://www.voyage.gc.ca/dest/report-en.asp?country=290000