I am planning to travel to Thailand in June and July. Within my trip we were going to visit the coastal tourist areas, the islands, and then head over to Cambodia. I know several people who have made trips like this in that area, and could not say more positive things. However, my parents believe this trip is dangerous due to what they read on the following site:

http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_1040.html

I am trying to convince them that this trip is indeed safe and there is nothing to worry about. Can anyone help me out with opinions, facts, or personal experiences?

For a government produced advisory I would say it is comprehensive, and from a quick scan, nothing in it seems to be over the top. All these things can and do happen. Avoid the areas in the south that have been highlighted and in all other respects keep your wits about you and you'll be fine. In fact I would suggest you avoid the big Western tourist centres, usually very expensive, and concentrate on "Thai" Thailand and you might be struck by what a great place this really is.

Be vigilant around tall coconut palms.

Keep away from the deep south and you will be OK.

I think that section is well written. As stated above, nothing over the top. Avoiding the south is key. As is avoiding red light districts and being out late at night at clubs/bars. But that's true anywhere in the world.

Take a look at France's page...pretty much the same stuff:

http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_1116.html#crime

Thailand has a few issues to be aware of. The gem/tailor scams. The former being the worst. Jet ski scams are in Phuket and Pattaya. Pickpocketing is rare, though snatching of gold chains is very common. Don't bring any expensive jewelry...which is something I do no matter where I travel.

Tuk Tuks and taxis can sometimes charge you far more than they should. But you're usually talking about something less than $10. Not a big deal.

If you are heading to Cambodia, will you fly or go overland? If overland, get an evisa and avoid the touts at the border crossings.

I've traveled all over the Kingdom and have never had a problem. During my 6 week trip to Europe, I saw many scams, petty thefts and my wife's purse was stolen in Portugal. So these things happen no matter where you travel.

Come to Thailand and have fun! I recommend getting a good guide book. If you want help with your itinerary, do another post here with that topic, let us know your travel dates/how much time you have, and we'll try to help out!

P.S. Make sure you have travel insurance. If you fall ill here, up front cash payments are not unusual before they'll admit you.

Ok, Ok. Not everybody is adventurous. I removed a few off topic posts.

And also you could give your parents some reassurance by comparing the US consular state of affairs view of Thailand to that of Cambodia with regards to threats of state and security, crime, victims of crime, medical facilities and traffic safety and road concerns, etc. Thailand appears to be a traveller friendly destination.

Thailand is as safe as anywhere else, if YOU don't do silly things and as said before keep away from areas of doubtful repute (areas where you will find single male westerners hanging around all day!)

There are some great places to visit and you can have a lot of fun, especially if you are traveling with friends! Dangerous to get to? That depends on the airline you choose to travel with (joke). Have fun!

Thailand is one of the most dangerous countries you can visit on the planet. For example, for British citizens, it is the number one death destination in the world. More Britons die while in Thailand than in any other country on earth. Many such deaths can be ascribed to irresponsible and risk-taking behaviour; however, Thailand also has notorious corruption, an ineffective police force, weak regulations in matters of health and safety and little or no enforcement of them, and inadequate infrastructure that can pose many dangers on a day-to-day basis. You can quite easily be maimed or killed just walking down the street, due to the dangerous conditions of the street infrastructure. Never travel to Thailand without a very good travel insurance policy that should cover you for unlimited medical expenses and repatriation to your home country in the event that you are gravely injured.

P.S. Make sure you have travel insurance. If you fall ill here, up front cash payments are not unusual before they'll admit you.

And make sure your travel insurance coverage includes accidents while riding a motorcycle. A good number of tourist injuries in Thailand involve alcohol and motorcycles.

Thailand is one of the most dangerous countries you can visit on the planet. For example, for British citizens, it is the number one death destination in the world. More Britons die while in Thailand than in any other country on earth. Many such deaths can be ascribed to irresponsible and risk-taking behaviour; however, Thailand also has notorious corruption, an ineffective police force, weak regulations in matters of health and safety and little or no enforcement of them, and inadequate infrastructure that can pose many dangers on a day-to-day basis. You can quite easily be maimed or killed just walking down the street, due to the dangerous conditions of the street infrastructure. Never travel to Thailand without a very good travel insurance policy that should cover you for unlimited medical expenses and repatriation to your home country in the event that you are gravely injured.

More Britons die while in Britain than in any other country on earth!

No, not dangerous -- as long as you stay out of the cesspits like Pattaya.

The government warnings are just to 'cover their ass' in case there was a dangerous incident.

As stated above, Thailand is safe as long as you don't get involved with drugs or other shady activity.

I have lived here 17 years and never had anything bad happen.

Just use common sense as you would anywhere.

In fact, I feel more vulnerable when back in UK for a holiday with all the muggings and murders in broad daylight !

Thailand is one of the most dangerous countries you can visit on the planet.

Not true, credits for your name though.

Thailand is one of the most dangerous countries you can visit on the planet.

B u ll crap

Thailand is one of the most dangerous countries you can visit on the planet. For example, for British citizens, it is the number one death destination in the world. More Britons die while in Thailand than in any other country on earth. Many such deaths can be ascribed to irresponsible and risk-taking behaviour; however, Thailand also has notorious corruption, an ineffective police force, weak regulations in matters of health and safety and little or no enforcement of them, and inadequate infrastructure that can pose many dangers on a day-to-day basis. You can quite easily be maimed or killed just walking down the street, due to the dangerous conditions of the street infrastructure. Never travel to Thailand without a very good travel insurance policy that should cover you for unlimited medical expenses and repatriation to your home country in the event that you are gravely injured.

Not even close...

http://www.traveldailynews.com/images/upload/File/british-abroad-report-240809.pdf

Get your facts straight before bashing. Then bash away if you still feel you're right in spite of the facts.

Thailand is as safe as anywhere else, if YOU don't do silly things and as said before keep away from areas of doubtful repute (areas where you will find single male westerners hanging around all day!)

There are some great places to visit and you can have a lot of fun, especially if you are traveling with friends! Dangerous to get to? That depends on the airline you choose to travel with (joke). Have fun!

I would say that more dangerous areas are where you see single male THAIS, dressed as women, hanging around.........................

Yes

Thailand is one of the most dangerous countries you can visit on the planet. For example, for British citizens, it is the number one death destination in the world. More Britons die while in Thailand than in any other country on earth. Many such deaths can be ascribed to irresponsible and risk-taking behaviour; however, Thailand also has notorious corruption, an ineffective police force, weak regulations in matters of health and safety and little or no enforcement of them, and inadequate infrastructure that can pose many dangers on a day-to-day basis. You can quite easily be maimed or killed just walking down the street, due to the dangerous conditions of the street infrastructure. Never travel to Thailand without a very good travel insurance policy that should cover you for unlimited medical expenses and repatriation to your home country in the event that you are gravely injured.

As said before, nice choice of name, it says a lot! Your post makes me wonder why, after living here 33 years, I am still alive. I have hardly seen any problems during my stay, not all tourists risk their lives on a motorcycle (stupid ones do thro). Corruption for a tourist? I'm sure the poster wants to get involved in Hi-So corruption or are you talking about being overcharged a small amount compared to what Thai's may pay? Let me tell you that happens to tourists in EVERY country. Ice cream sellers in Baker Street, London around 35/40 years ago were charging tourists one pound for an ice cream worth around 10 pence at the time. So, please stop quoting either grossly exaggerated statements about the country or, stop telling people the kind of life you lead here! Thailand is a great place both to live and for a holiday!

Thailand is as safe as anywhere else, if YOU don't do silly things and as said before keep away from areas of doubtful repute (areas where you will find single male westerners hanging around all day!)

There are some great places to visit and you can have a lot of fun, especially if you are traveling with friends! Dangerous to get to? That depends on the airline you choose to travel with (joke). Have fun!

I would say that more dangerous areas are where you see single male THAIS, dressed as women, hanging around.........................

Please share your experiences with us? LOL

Thailand is one of the most dangerous countries you can visit on the planet. For example, for British citizens, it is the number one death destination in the world. More Britons die while in Thailand than in any other country on earth. Many such deaths can be ascribed to irresponsible and risk-taking behaviour; however, Thailand also has notorious corruption, an ineffective police force, weak regulations in matters of health and safety and little or no enforcement of them, and inadequate infrastructure that can pose many dangers on a day-to-day basis. You can quite easily be maimed or killed just walking down the street, due to the dangerous conditions of the street infrastructure. Never travel to Thailand without a very good travel insurance policy that should cover you for unlimited medical expenses and repatriation to your home country in the event that you are gravely injured.

You are OBVIOUSLY nothing but a troll. I can't understand why the mods have not removed this blatantly untrue and deliberately inflammatory post.

Thailand is one of the most dangerous countries you can visit on the planet. For example, for British citizens, it is the number one death destination in the world. More Britons die while in Thailand than in any other country on earth. Many such deaths can be ascribed to irresponsible and risk-taking behaviour; however, Thailand also has notorious corruption, an ineffective police force, weak regulations in matters of health and safety and little or no enforcement of them, and inadequate infrastructure that can pose many dangers on a day-to-day basis. You can quite easily be maimed or killed just walking down the street, due to the dangerous conditions of the street infrastructure. Never travel to Thailand without a very good travel insurance policy that should cover you for unlimited medical expenses and repatriation to your home country in the event that you are gravely injured.

You are OBVIOUSLY nothing but a troll. I can't understand why the mods have not removed this blatantly untrue and deliberately inflammatory post.

'Cause it's more fun to pick it apart.

I think your parents have every right to be concerned for your well being- that being said..have they ever travelled to Thailand? I found that before I left for my trip everyone around me said the same things- "isn't it dangerous? date rape drug? organs beings stolen and sold on the black market, terrorism?" I heard all of the horror stories..yet most of the people that were incredulous that I wanted to vacation here- were the same people that had never travelled. Never set foot out of Canada, maybe the extent of their travels being an all-inclusive trip...so ignorance plays a huge role here, only hearing what is broadcast on TV, radio, and myths perpetuated by movies like Hostel. As for the government site they referenced:

In January 2012, Thai police discovered a large quantity of explosive materials linked to suspected Hizballah operatives.

On February 14, 2012, an explosion occurred at a house on a busy street in central Bangkok. A few minutes later a man leaving the house threw an improvised explosive device at a taxi.

The political environment in Thailand remains beset by deep political divisions. Protesters hold political rallies frequently to voice their opinions. Between March and May 2010, political protests throughout Thailand resulted in the deaths of at least 91 people and injuries to over 260 people, including two U.S. citizens. For a period of several months after the protests ended in May, there were numerous explosive attacks, including several isolated grenade and arson attacks in and around Bangkok and, on occasion

These 3 occurrences

#1 happened over a year ago

#2 are minor in comparison to what goes on in the United States and other 1st world countries such as Canada everyday... (Hello Boston!!!??????? the small Canadian city that I live in, has the highest murder rate per capita in Canada..in a country with severe gun control..figure that one out eh?)

I am currently in Thailand, and I have never felt uncomfortable or afraid in any circumstance. The Thai people are very peaceful and kind..they are generous and easy going.

The general aggression in the United States and Canada far exceeds anything I have seen here- a really basic example being that there is no road rage here whatsoever.

Of course bad things can happen to people, but if you exercise caution..protect your belongings, don't drink and drive, never accept a drink unless it is bottled, avoid areas with any risk (Thai/Cambodian border near specific temples) etc. basically use COMMON SENSE..then you are doing everything in your power to stay safe. Thailand is AWESOME, and you need to come!!!!!

Traveling in Thailand is dangerous, and there is a case right now where a group in UK are petitioning to the Coroner to have far more severe warnings posted.

Everything from wholly ignored pedestrian crossings and noodle carts blocking the sidewalks, to a serious deficiencies in aviation and other public travel oversight

This site below might be banned from this forum ( and if removed, ask yourself why some info is censored on various discussion forums, vested interests in keeping visitors a bit naive and advertisers happy? ) But this report is timely to your query.You can google for the article on <snip>

Crux is that Thailand is very very high on the list in traffic fatalities, yet the UK Govt travel site chooses to down play this fact.

You can also read www.InvestigateUdom.com for some rather eye opening facts on how civil aviation is overseen. Pretty scary and I don't think anything has changed since the crash in 2007.

At one point I'd say Thai Airways is the safest air option, , but since last year I would change my assessment as the new President is not so safety minded - the one who was was fired for it. ( IMO )

I only fly Malaysia or Singapore airlines. I'll never get on a Thai budget airline here- and that goes double for Thai Air Asia ( Malaysia Air Asia is OK )

Life does not hold the same value here-if you get killed, so what? You move onto a better life is the current philosophy. If a bus has bald tires and the driver is going too fast in the rain, your death was meant to be.

If you want to sample the infamous prostitution , then by all means, of course you'll love the visit and rave about how "awesome" it all is. But if you are a family instead or otherwise not sexually ( or party-time ) motivated, you might find Malaysia a better destination - it's about 5 decades ahead of Tland in way of a safety culture, cleaner and really a better value( than Phuket, anyway).

You could also not choose Thailand for its abysmal treatment of animals and minority groups.

Thailand is one of the most dangerous countries you can visit on the planet. For example, for British citizens, it is the number one death destination in the world. More Britons die while in Thailand than in any other country on earth. Many such deaths can be ascribed to irresponsible and risk-taking behaviour; however, Thailand also has notorious corruption, an ineffective police force, weak regulations in matters of health and safety and little or no enforcement of them, and inadequate infrastructure that can pose many dangers on a day-to-day basis. You can quite easily be maimed or killed just walking down the street, due to the dangerous conditions of the street infrastructure. Never travel to Thailand without a very good travel insurance policy that should cover you for unlimited medical expenses and repatriation to your home country in the event that you are gravely injured.

You are OBVIOUSLY nothing but a troll. I can't understand why the mods have not removed this blatantly untrue and deliberately inflammatory post.

Sorry, but had to remove that website address for a variety of reasons.

^ Understood.

To OP, as I said....

Don't really agree with you regarding Malaysia. I've only spent 3-4 weeks there, but IMHO, it was OK. But I like Thailand better. And not interested in chasing girls or hard core partying in either country, so take that out of the equation.

Thailand is dangerous. But no more than many other countries around the world. Avoid overnight buses and late nights out at clubs and you'll, hopefully, be OK.

Lots of to see in Thailand. In my 11 years here, have never had a problem. But I don't ride motorcycles.

If your driving I recommend ...........................................

......................................... ..................................I jest.

There are terrorist acts in the United States (Boston), it can happen anywhere but is unlikely. I have visited Thailand more than a dozen times, and have been to Phuket, Krabi, Bangkok, Chang Mai, Trat, and all around Isaan. As long as you are not doing anything illegal and have a small amount of common sense you should be safe and will have a great time. Ask them if they would worry if you were going to New York, or Los Angeles (which are likely more dangerous than Bangkok for crime).