Bad news for travel-loving tourists, this destination hotspot may no longer be the safest place to visit. Recently, the US issued a warning of "active hostilities" at a popular travel destination. Be sure to check it out before making your holiday travel plans.
US Warns Of 'Active Hostilities' At Popular Travel Destination
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If you asked Santa for a trip to Thailand this Christmas, you may want to reconsider. This stunning Asian destination has been attracting tourists for quite some time. With its beautiful landscapes, delicious cuisine, and wide variety of activities, Thailand is an extremely popular travel destination. However, tensions are currently rising.
The NY Post reported that those tensions are mainly due to rising tensions between Thailand and Cambodia. Due to those tensions, the US government has warned American tourists about traveling too close to the border area of the two neighboring countries. Additionally, the outlet shared that the U.S. Embassy in Thailand "issued a security alert to American tourists Dec. 16, warning of an 'escalation of armed conflict.'"
Later, the Embassy shared an update on the 19th. That update claimed that "Both sides continue to report cross-border fire, and conditions remain volatile." Furthermore, they argue that the area still contains "active hostilities" and is an "unpredictable security situation."
What Tourists Should Do
The US currently lists Thailand as a Level 2 Travel Advisory. This means the country is now an increased caution list, and the advisory specifies that it is due to "risk of unrest" in areas along the Cambodian and Thai border due to armed conflict." If, for some reason, you cannot cancel your plans, or you are a tourist who is currently residing or traveling in the affected areas, the Embassy suggests these actions to take.
- Avoid all travel within 50 km of the Cambodia-Thailand border.
- Follow directions from Thai security services and local authorities.
- Absent other guidance, exercise caution or shelter in place if unexpectedly in the vicinity of conflict.
- Prepare or update your personal emergency plan. Review the Traveler's Checklist .
- Enroll and update your information in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
- Receive alerts from the U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Consular Affairs via WhatsApp .
- Follow the Department of State on Facebook and X . Visit travel.state.gov and the U.S. Embassy in Thailand website.
