The Australian government recently upgraded its travel advice for Thailand, but it’s not the only popular tourist destination to have its danger level raised.
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade on July 1 warned travellers of an “ongoing risk of terrorism” across Thailand, via its Smartraveller website, after police reported finding improvised explosives in tourist areas around Phuket and Krabi.
“Popular tourist areas may be the target of terrorist attacks anywhere across Thailand, including Bangkok and Phuket,” it said.
“Phuket International Airport has increased security measures and passengers should arrive early for their flight. This follows the recent discovery of an explosive device near the airport.”
In recent months, Smartraveller has also revised its advice for several other countries popular with Australians, from more obscure regions to mass-tourism holiday spots.
In May, France was upgraded to a Level 2, indicating that travellers should exercise a high degree of caution due to the threat of terrorism.
“France’s national terrorist alert warning remains at the highest level,” Smartraveller said. “Expect high-level security nationwide.”
Britain was flagged as a Level 2 destination in June, also due to possible terrorism.
Visitors to Britain are also warned that petty crime is common, including “pickpocketing, mobile phone and bag-snatching, passport theft, as well as theft from cars across the UK”.
Other in-demand destinations recently upgraded to Level 2 include Brazil, Mexico and even Sri Lanka, which has long been on the rise among Aussies.
What is Smartraveller
If you travel often, you’re probably familiar with how Smartraveller works.
The website provides official travel advisories for 178 countries, each assigned an advice level determined by their sociopolitical state, as well as factors such as public safety, health and local law.
There are four levels, each indicating safety and security risks posed for Australian travellers.
- Level 1: Exercise normal safety precautions
- Level 2: Exercise a high degree of caution
- Level 3: Reconsider your need to travel
- Level 4: Do not travel
Why have some increased?
The reasons for upgraded travel advice can range from increased rates of violent crime and petty theft to recent visa changes and political unrest.
The latter was a factor in Thailand’s upgrade to a Level 2, with Smartraveller citing its recent border disputes with Cambodia.
Israel has been recently moved to Level 3, while Iran is flagged Level 4 due to a “risk of further military conflict”, as is Lebanon, because of “the risk of the security situation deteriorating further”.
Reasonable precautions
While these changes may sound alarming, it’s important to remember that Level 2 advisories warn that the safety risks posed may be higher than what you would typically find in Australia.
Countries such as France and the UK remain popular holiday destinations for Australians, with millions travelling to both destinations annually without incident.
An increased travel advisory to Level 2 just means that visitors should do their research and be prepared to take extra precautions.
One simple way to protect yourself overseas is by purchasing travel insurance before you go and matching coverage to your destination.
For example, if you’re travelling to a country where medical care may be limited or expensive, make sure your policy includes comprehensive health cover.
Be aware that there may be a heightened presence of security at places like airports, museums, shopping centres and landmarks.
Avoid leaving bags, food or drinks unattended. Make sure you get the correct visa, if one is required. Stay up to date with the latest travel news.
With a little preparation and awareness, you can relax and focus on what really matters: Enjoying your time away.
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