News
For the latest information on the situation in Thailand regarding the political situation and areas of concern, please consult the official websites (foreign affairs) of your government.
Dangerous areas
Definitely to be avoided: the four southern provinces of Yala, Narathiwat, Pattani and Songkhla. In these provinces, which border Malaysia, attacks occur almost daily and innocent people are killed.
Crime and personal safety
Thailand is a safe country and it is generally safe to travel around.
However, you should exercise the usual caution regarding pickpockets in busy places such as train stations, on buses, at markets, etc.
Be wary of overly friendly locals who offer to show you around for free or at a low cost. Their aim is to take you to shops (usually jewellers and tailors) where you often end up paying far too much for poor-quality (or counterfeit) jewellery or clothes.
If you are the victim of a crime, you can contact the Tourist Police on 1155 and/or your embassy.
Going out and nightlife
Be careful in nightlife districts such as Patpong, Soi Cowboy and Khao San Road, as someone might slip a sleeping drug into your drink without you noticing. A few hours later, you’ll wake up to find your money and valuables have gone. Get your own drinks at the bar, and if possible, choose a sealed bottle or can that you open yourself. This way, you can prevent being drugged.
Beware of ‘free’ sex shows. After the brief show, which is usually nothing to write home about, you’ll be presented with an exorbitant bill. If you refuse to pay, you’ll find yourself surrounded by a few tough lads who won’t hesitate to use force, leaving you with no choice but to pay up.
Storms and floods
Severe storms and flooding can occur without warning, particularly during the rainy season (from May to October), though sometimes also outside this period. You can find the latest weather forecasts on the website of the Thai Meteorological Department or on the websites of the English-language newspapers Bangkok Post and The Nation. See also Best time to visit Thailand and Thailand’s climate.
E-cigarettes and Drugs
Electronic cigarettes (vaping) are illegal in Thailand. The sale and supply of these products are prohibited.
The possession and export of drugs (including cannabis) are subject to severe penalties.
Traffic – mopeds and motorcycles
There are many accidents in Thailand, often with fatal consequences. Driving mopeds and motorbikes yourself is strongly discouraged. Using moped taxis is also not recommended. Mopeds and motorbikes are (usually) not insured.
Jet ski and scooter hire
Renting jet skis, scooters and motorbikes is strongly discouraged. There are many cases of fraud; the rental company claims afterwards that damage has been caused. Unless the often absurdly high sums are paid, the passport or driving licence, which was taken as security, will not be returned. Mopeds are also rented out which are stolen the same day by an accomplice of the rental company, after which the renter is forced to pay the full replacement cost as compensation.
Visa and passport
Information on visas, passports and the TDAC, as well as the addresses of the Belgian and Dutch embassies in Bangkok, can be found on the page Visas, passports and the TDAC for Thailand.
We hope you have a safe trip to Thailand!
Which hotel to stay in Bangkok?
Check out our main article on Hotels in Bangkok. In addition to our favourite hotels and info about the Bangkok neighbourhoods, you will also find all the information about transport, the best booking times, the best booking platforms and our selections in 3-star, 4-star and 5-star hotels.
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