Is Thailand Safe to Travel?

Wherever you travel in the world, the issue of safety is one every traveler considers to be a paramount concern. As such, many tourists to Thailand have had thoughts like "Is Thailand Safe To Travel?".  Well, I'm here to tell you that you shouldn't fret as Thailand is considered to be an extremely popular holiday destination, and one that is relatively safe. In this article, I'll dive deep into explaining why Thailand should be an ideal holiday spot for you, by detailing various factors that contribute to the country’s overall safety. 

Written by Preetika Narula (Local Expert)Updated on 05-08-2024

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1. How Safe Is It to Travel to Thailand?

As a local who has lived in Thailand for 29 years, I can attest that I have never once felt like my home country isn't safe. I live in the heart of Bangkok, where it is busy 24/7 except during the pandemic, but I find that Thailand feels a lot safer than many countries I've visited. I've also spoken to a couple of tourists and locals, and this is what they've had to say:

An American couple I met while on a shopping spree at Central World said that they find major cities particularly safe. They initially had a query “Is Bangkok Safe?” and “Is it Safe in Phuket?” But, they said that the only time they had to worry was at night in touristy areas where crowds got a bit too much, but it was nothing too scary. Just be careful of one's belongings, which is something you should always be careful of even if you're in other countries.

Comparisons with Neighboring Countries

Thailand is considered safer than Myanmar and the Philippines, which face higher crime rates and political turmoil. Compared to Malaysia and Singapore, Thailand ranks in the middle tier. While not as developed as Singapore, Thailand is generally safe and well-equipped to support continuous tourism.

2. What Health Risks Should I Be Aware Of?

Although generally safe, Thailand is largely covered in rainforests. The weather ranges from hot and humid to cool and wet, with peak monsoon months from July to early October. You should be aware of various health risks and take necessary precautions.

1) Diseases:

Being a tropical country, there are mosquitoes everywhere, especially in areas like Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai, Krabi, and Chiang Rai. During monsoon season you will see more mosquitoes than during the hot season. So do be alert as dengue and malaria are still very prevalent. To stay safe, apply mosquito repellant especially if you’re camping or in areas that are surrounded by lots of greenery.

2) Food and Water Hazards:

Is street food in Thailand safe? While many street food options are perfectly safe and hygienic, it's important to be cautious, especially with meat and seafood. Ensure that the stall you choose maintains good sanitation and hasn’t had food exposed to the sun for long periods. Remember, delicious Thai street food can also be found in other locations beyond just street vendors.

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Places like Bangkok and Chiang Mai which have markets galore are haven for street food eats, but if you’re someone with a sensitive stomach and not accustomed to the way food is cooked here, you might want to avoid eating too much of these kinds of food. Especially during the hotter months, you could encounter food poisoning as meat can go stale.

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A very important note: DO NOT DRINK THE TAP WATER HERE. The water across the country is not sanitary for drinking, even though it has been filtered for other use. Always purchase bottled water from supermarkets and convenience stores like 7/11. The same goes for ice, if you’re not dining in a restaurant or in a hotel, try to avoid having ice in your drinks from local vendors unless you can verify they’re using bottled water as the source.

3) Travel and Transportation

Bangkok is a bustling city with heavy traffic and a vast number of cars on the road daily. To avoid getting caught in traffic and the risks of road accidents, especially if you're not used to driving on the left side, I recommend opting for alternative transport modes.

• Bangkok: Choose the BTS (Skytrain) or MRT (Subway) to get around quickly and efficiently. These options will save you time and hassle. If you decide to take a motorbike, always wear a helmet for safety. For ride-sharing, Grab and Bolt are reliable options. (For more information, please read: Getting around Thailand & Metro in Bangkok, Thailand)

• Phuket, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Samui: In these cities, using ride-sharing apps like Grab and Bolt is a great way to avoid scams and ensure a smooth journey. These options provide convenience and reliability, making your travel experience more enjoyable.

>>> Read more: How to say Hello in Thai? Guide to greeting like a local!

3. Common Scams and How to Avoid Them

In big cities, you might encounter scams when it comes to using public transportation. Here are some things you can do to avoid such scams:

1) Taxi, Tuk-Tuk and Motorbikes.

If you're hailing transport roadside, be cautious as some drivers may quote a fixed price without using the meter, especially taxis. Insist on using the meter for a fair rate.

For motorbikes, use designated stalls with posted prices for transparency. Avoid tuk-tuks, as they can be tourist traps and are best used only in specific areas like Bangkok's sois.

2) Renting a Car/Motorbike:

Even with insurance coverage, you could fall prey to rental scams. Rental places might claim you damaged their vehicle to avoid returning your deposit. This is common in many countries, including Thailand.

To avoid this, document everything: take photos when you receive the vehicle, while driving, and when returning it. This way, you'll have evidence to support your claim that you didn't cause any damage.

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4. Is Thailand Safe for Women? Does Thailand Have Racism?

Overall, Thailand is quite safe for women, with lower crime rates against women compared to countries like India. Many young women, especially Western tourists, travel solo, backpacking and staying at hostels, and report feeling safe and satisfied due to the hospitable and friendly nature of Thai people.

If you still have concerns about safety as a female traveler, here are some tips to make your trip smoother and worry-free:

1) How to Dress:

If you don't want to attract too much attention, especially in a big city like Bangkok, dress moderately and avoid flashy clothes while walking around shopping malls. Unless you're going bar hopping or attending events, locals typically dress casually.

When visiting a temple, remember to follow the rules: no exposed shoulders and wear long pants or skirts. Dressing moderately is also important in rural areas where locals may not be accustomed to revealing clothing, so you don't want to raise concern.

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2) Night Travel:

It's okay to go partying around Bangkok, Phuket, and other hotspots where there are many tourists and nearby police. However, you shouldn't go to isolated places alone. Avoid poorly lit streets and public taxis; instead, opt for motorbikes or ride-sharing apps.

If you have concerns, whether as a solo female traveler or in a group, you can seek help from the Tourist Police at number 1155. Additionally, you can always head to the nearest embassy for assistance. They will be more than happy to help you.

Does Thailand have racism?

Thailand generally presents a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. However, issues of xenophobia and racial discrimination do arise. Here’s what you need to know:

• Preference for Light-Colored Skin: Influenced by Korean and Japanese beauty standards, there is a preference for lighter skin, especially among young women. This can cause discomfort for those with darker skin.
• Ethnic Minorities Discrimination: Hill tribe communities often face social and economic discrimination, lacking adequate access to healthcare, education, and other essential services.
• Preferential Treatment: Tourists may encounter higher charges than locals, particularly in national parks and certain attractions, reflecting preferential pricing based on nationality or race.
• Xenophobia: Migrant workers from Myanmar, Laos, and Cambodia often face poor working conditions and discrimination. Tourists typically do not experience these issues.

Overall, severe cases of racism and xenophobia are uncommon. Thai people are generally friendly and welcoming. Respect the local culture, and you’ll have a positive experience.

5. Is Thailand LGBTQ+ - Friendly?

My Canadian friend has said: "My partner and I have traveled extensively, and while the world has become more gay-friendly, we always consider the safety and comfort of a destination as a gay couple. Thailand stands out as one of the most gay-welcoming destinations we've encountered. We experienced no issues requesting one bed at hotels."

Thai Buddhism does not forbid homosexuality, fostering acceptance within the community. While some older generations might struggle, Buddhist teachings promote acceptance of what cannot be changed. The newer generations are more accepting, and homosexuality is becoming a part of social life. Many Thai people have homosexual friends or acquaintances. Additionally, LGBTQ+ individuals often appear on TV as entertainers, positively influencing public perception.

Thailand's Senate has also passed the marriage equality bill, positioning the country to become the first in Southeast Asia to recognize same-sex marriage. That's why you'll never have to worry about this. 

6. Is It Safe to Travel Solo in Thailand?

If you're solo traveling around Thailand, you don't want to go off the grid and leave your friends and family worried, even though the country is relatively safe. Here are some tips to ensure you have a safe and pleasant solo trip:

1) Keeping People Informed:

You should always inform those closest to you of your travel plans, including your itinerary and any changes. Share your live location if you're traveling to risky areas, like hiking long trails or walking in sois late at night. This way they can track your safety and whereabouts.

2) Accommodation:

 Regardless of the budget you have, always verify the safety standards of your accommodation. Stay in areas that are well-known and that your AirBNB host, hotel, hostel etc are reputable.
Top Solo Travel Picks: Click to explore each destination:

1. Chiang Mai: Renowned for its safety, diverse community of international residents, and various things to do like cooking workshops, temple explorations, and hiking expeditions​.

2. Pai: A cozy village nestled in the hills of northern Thailand, loved for its relaxed vibe, breathtaking scenery, and tight-knit bond shared by wanderers​.

3. Koh Samui: Provides a blend of picturesque shorelines, exciting adventures, and a secure setting for solo adventurers. The island's amenities cater to both upscale and economical journeys​.

>>> Learn more about: Diving in Thailand: 10 Underwater Paradises

7. Regions to Be Cautious Of

There are some regions you'd want to avoid on your trip to Thailand, even I don't venture to these areas because us locals know that they aren't tourist spots and in fact pose a lot of risks. These are: 

1) Yala, Pattani, Narathiwat and Songkhla (parts of it)

These areas are located in the South of Thailand and are in strife with political turmoil as the region borders Malaysia and many of the locals have been dealing with conflict for decades. There have been cases of violence reported in the past which has also led to high crime rates.

 

2) Myanmar Border Areas:

Unless absolutely necessary, stay clear of areas that border Myanmar like Mae Sot and Sankhlaburi. Due to continuous ongoing conflict in Myanmar, these areas do experience cross-border conflict and are hubs for illegal activities like smuggling and human trafficking, so it's best not to get caught up in the crossfire.

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8. Emergency Contacts and Resources

1) Police: Call 191 for any help or just go to your nearest police station

2) Tourist Police: 1155, this hotline has been established to provide more direct solutions and assistance to tourists all over the country

3) Medical Emergencies and Ambulance: 1669, should you run into any emergency requiring medical assistance. You should also make note of nearby hospitals in the region you're traveling to.

4) Consulates and Embassies: Do a quick google search to find out the location of your embassy, contact number and more. It's handy to note this.

Final Thoughts

Thailand is a diverse destination with a mix of culture, landscapes, and welcoming people. Although generally safe, it's important for tourists to be aware and take precautions, especially in specific regions like the south and border areas. By respecting local traditions, being cautious of scams, and following health and safety advice, visitors can have a great time in Thailand. Whether exploring cities, relaxing on beaches, or experiencing peaceful spots like Chiang Mai, a prepared traveler will have a memorable trip. Stay informed with travel advisories and local updates to guarantee a safe and fun adventure.

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