Travellers are being advised to defer non-essential travel to the Thai capital Bangkok, after the country’s army declared a coup on 22 May.
On the same day, a nationwide night-time curfew was imposed from 22h00 to 05h00 and demonstrators on both sides of the political divide were ordered to leave protest sites.
Regularly updated advisories are being issued to members who are currently in Thailand and for those planning future travel.
International SOS advises the following:
• Defer non-essential travel to Bangkok while the security situation remains fluid.
• Minimise all movement in Bangkok while the response to the coup remains unclear. Violent pro-government protests remain possible. Avoid all gatherings because of the credible risk of violence.
• Expect heightened security measures, including road closures, checkpoints and an increased security force presence. Where travel within Bangkok is essential, allow additional time for travel and confirm routes are clear before commencing the journey.
• Stay abreast of and observe curfew hours, which may change with little or no notice.
• International flight connections and domestic transfers via Bangkok are still possible; travellers should check for delays with their airlines before travelling.
• Register with your embassy and ensure that you receive regular updates prior to and during your visit.
• Plan for temporary media and telecommunications blackouts.