CONTENT|CONTENU

TRAVEL REPORT
Thailand

1. RECENT UPDATES

The level of Travel Warning in this report has not changed.

Section 2 has been updated (the information on the ASEAN Summit has been removed).

See our Global Issues page for information on the H1N1 Flu Virus.

For information on Avian Influenza, see our Global Issues page.

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2. WARNINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

Thailand

Exercise normal security precautions

Exercise high degree of caution

Avoid non-essential travel

Avoid all travel

In response to demonstrations in August and September 2009, the Thai government authorized the use of the Internal Security Act, which limits civil liberties, including the right to assembly. Further demonstrations and use of the Internal Security Act remain a strong possibility.

In April 2009, political demonstrations and civil unrest occurred in Bangkok and in many provinces throughout the country, which led to violent and fatal clashes between security forces, demonstrators and private citizens. While order was restored, the situation remains volatile.

Canadians are strongly advised to avoid any demonstrations, protest sites, or concentrations of security personnel and should exercise caution, follow advice of local authorities, and monitor local media.

Following a military coup in September 19, 2006, martial law remains in effect in some areas of the country.

There is a heightened threat of terrorism throughout Southeast Asia, including Thailand. Canadians should maintain a high level of personal security awareness at all times as the security situation could deteriorate rapidly without notice. Canadians are advised to exercise caution, particularly in commercial and public establishments (hotels, clubs, restaurants, bars, schools, places of worship, outdoor recreation events), tourist areas frequented by foreigners, and on public transportation. Reports suggest that there is an ongoing terrorist threat in Thailand and attacks could occur at any time, anywhere, throughout the Kingdom. While we have no evidence to suggest that Canadians will be directly targeted, there is a risk of becoming an inadvertent victim of a terrorist attack.

Regional Warning: Preah Vihear temple (Khao Phra Viharn in Thai) area

Exercise normal security precautions

Exercise high degree of caution

Avoid non-essential travel

Avoid all travel

OFFICIAL WARNING: Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada advises against all travel to the Preah Vihear temple (Khao Phra Viharn in Thai) area between Preah Vihear province in Cambodia and Sisaket province in Thailand due to a border dispute. Armed forces from both countries have been involved in this ongoing dispute, which has included the exchange of gunfire between troops. Tensions are high and military hostilities could escalate without warning. Martial law is in effect in the area and the presence of landmines has been reported.

Regional Warning: Southern provinces of Narathiwat, Pattani, Yala and Songkhla

Exercise normal security precautions

Exercise high degree of caution

Avoid non-essential travel

Avoid all travel

OFFICIAL WARNING: Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada advises against all travel to and through the far southern provinces of Narathiwat, Pattani, Yala, and Songkhla (including the city of Hat Yai). These provinces have been experiencing criminally and politically motivated violent incidents, including acts attributed to armed insurgents. Attacks against military and civilian targets occur almost daily, and include shootings, bombings, beheadings, and arson.

Violence in the Muslim-majority southernmost provinces is highly unpredictable and, although we have no evidence to suggest that foreigners are directly targeted, Canadians travelling in the region risk becoming accidental casualties of an indiscriminate attack. These attacks are regularly directed towards government and security buildings and personnel, but have also occurred in a variety of public places, including shopping districts and entertainment venues which may be frequented by tourists.
 
On August 25, 2009, a vehicle bomb exploded in Narathiwat town injuring 42 people.  On June 8, 2009, gunmen killed at least 11 worshipers and injured many more in a mosque in the Cho-ai-rong district of Narathiwat province. On November 4, 2008, three bombs exploded in the Sukhirin district of Narathiwat, reportedly killing one person and injuring at least 71.  On June 22, 2008, an armed attack aboard a passenger train travelling on the Sungai Kolok-Yala line left four people dead. On March 15, 2008, a car bomb exploded in the parking lot of a popular hotel and conference venue in Pattani, killing two and wounding thirteen. On September 16, 2006, bombs exploded in downtown Hat Yai (Songkhla Province), killing several foreigners, including one Canadian.
 
An Emergency Decree has been in effect since 2005, giving the Prime Minister  powers in an attempt to quell the ongoing violence in the region. A “severe state of emergency” has been declared in the three southernmost provinces of Yala, Pattani and Narathiwat, giving the authorities powers to detain suspects without charge, conduct searches, and seize objects or documents. Curfews have been occasionally imposed. New arrivals in the district must register with the military and usage and possession of radio communication equipment is prohibited.

Regional Warning : border areas in the provinces of Tak and Mae Hong Son

Exercise normal security precautions

Exercise high degree of caution

Avoid non-essential travel

Avoid all travel

OFFICIAL WARNING: Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada advises against non-essential travel to border areas in the Thai provinces of Tak and Mae Hong Son due to ongoing armed conflict on the Burmese side of the border. Incursions and shelling into Thailand have occurred. Border crossing points may close without notice.

OFFICIAL REGISTRATION RECOMMENDATION: We offer a registration service for all Canadians travelling or living abroad. This service is provided so that we can contact and assist you in an emergency abroad, such as a natural disaster or civil unrest, or inform you of a family emergency at home. Registration can be done on-line or by contacting a Canadian government office abroad. For more information, see our FAQs on Registration of Canadians Abroad.

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3. SAFETY AND SECURITY

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. Travellers are responsible for their own personal safety. The Government of Canada takes the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provides credible and timely advice in its Travel Reports. In the event of a crisis situation that requires evacuation, the Government of Canada’s policy is to provide safe transportation to the closest safe location. Canada will assist Canadians in leaving a country or a region as a last resort, when all means of commercial or personal transportation have been exhausted. This service is provided on a cost-recovery basis. Onward travel is at the individual’s personal expense. Situations vary from one location to another, and there may be constraints on government resources, which can limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide assistance, particularly in countries or regions where the potential for violent conflict or political instability are high.

Canadians should avoid all demonstrations and stay away from areas where protests could likely occur. Travellers are reminded that protests can turn violent without warning and a gathering, regardless of its size, may become violent or a target for a terrorist attack. Canadians should be aware that demonstrations are usually accompanied by a heightened police presence and traffic delays.

During mass demonstrations in Bangkok in the fall of 2008, violent clashes and the use of explosive devices resulted in many casualties and injuries. Demonstrators also forced the temporary closure of Suvarnabhumi International Airport and Don Mueang International Airport in Bangkok, while political conflict and protests on a smaller scale in other areas of the country also resulted in casualties and temporarily closed some provincial airports.

Canadians should exercise caution when travelling to the border areas with Burma (Myanmar). Occasional violence, banditry and clashes between government forces, rebel units and drug traffickers have been reported. Travellers should consult the Thai Tourist Police, by calling 1155 toll-free, to determine if official border crossing points are open. Borders should be crossed at designated crossing points only, with the required travel documentation.

Petty crime, such as purse snatching, pickpocketing, and theft, is common. Bags should not be left unattended. Exercise safety precautions and ensure personal belongings are secure, especially in tourist areas, crowded markets, and bus or train stations. Thieves sometimes use razors to slit open purses or bags to remove the contents. Only use reputable transportation companies. Thefts have been reported on buses and vans travelling between Bangkok and southern tourist/beach destinations. Break-ins occur at budget guesthouses, sometimes while guests are asleep in the room.

The border area adjacent to the Preah Vihear temple (Khao Phra Viharn in Thai), between Preah Vihear province in Cambodia and Sisaket province in Thailand is disputed.  In October 2008, conflict between armed forces from Thailand and Cambodia resulted in injuries and fatalities.  Although tensions have settled, armed forces remain in the area.

Travellers arriving by air should use licensed taxis from official taxi stands, limousine services, official airport buses, or arrange to be picked up by hotel shuttle services. Unlicensed vehicles (black and white license plates) are not properly insured to carry passengers and may not use meters.  Do not share a taxi with strangers.

Although not specifically targeted, Canadians have occasionally been victims of violent crime. In early 2008, there were three separate gun-related incidents involving four Canadians. Travellers should maintain a high level of personal security awareness at all times.

Travellers should be particularly cautious during "Full Moon Parties" on Koh Pha-ngan. Passport thefts and losses are extremely common and their replacement may cause you significant travel delays. Ensure passports are secure. Never accept food or drinks from strangers and do not leave food or drinks unattended, particularly in bars. Cases of drugging followed by robbery and sexual assault have occurred. Tourists have been approached by seemingly friendly strangers, often posing as fellow travellers, offering drugged food or drinks. Drugs may be administered through drinks, food, aerosols, cigarettes, gum, or in powder form. Canadians who suspect they have been drugged should seek immediate medical attention.

Sexual assaults against foreign women have occurred. Female travellers should exercise caution at all times. Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada publishes a booklet, Her Own Way, specifically targeted at female travellers. Its prime objective is to inform and inspire Canadian women to travel safely. 

Swimmers should be advised that deaths have occurred as a result of contact with poisonous jellyfish. There have been reports of jellyfish off Koh Phangan, Phuket, Krabi, Koh Lanta and Koh Phi Phi. Exercise extreme caution when swimming in these areas. If stung, seek immediate medical attention.

Riptides in costal areas can be strong, including the popular destinations of Phuket, Koh Samui, Pattaya, Rayong, and Cha-am/Hua Hin. There have been a number of deaths due to drowning. Travellers should heed flag warnings and should under no circumstances swim when a red flag is displayed.

Travellers who participate in water sports and scuba diving should be aware that diving schools and rescue services may not be consistent with international standards. Water sports equipment should be rented from operators affiliated to major international training organizations.

Pirate attacks and armed robbery against ships in Southeast Asia occur. Mariners should take appropriate precautions. For additional information, see the Weekly Piracy Report published by the Commercial Crime Services division of the International Chamber of Commerce.

Scams

Canadians visiting Thailand regularly report having fallen victim to a variety of scams, including those involving gems and jewellery.  Merchants sell lower quality items at inflated prices with promises that the items can be resold at a profit. The guarantees that merchants offer are not always honoured.  Travellers who are not knowledgable regarding gems and jewellery should carefully consider all purchases.  The Government of Canada cannot assist in obtaining refunds for purchases made. For further information contact the Tourism Authority of Thailand.

Canadians should not leave their passport as collateral when renting motorcycles or jet skis. All rental contracts should be read thoroughly to ensure that the motorcycle or jet ski is correctly insured to cover damages and theft. Canadians should only rent from reputable companies, as, in the case of motorcycles, some companies have been known to "steal" the motorcycle and claim for loss.  It has also been reported that upon return of the rental, claims of damage allegedly caused by the renter have been made and some travellers have been harassed and threatened in an attempt to collect compensation for the damages.  Travellers whose passports are inaccessible or stolen in these types of situations may be subject to investigation by Passport Canada and may receive limited passport services.

Shoplifting is illegal.  Reports indicate that persons have been accused of shoplifting in Suvarnabhumi International Airport resulting in detention and requests for payment of substantial fines.  Canadians are advised to carefully ensure that all items purchased are recorded on a receipt and that only those items are included in the shopping bag.

Travellers should also be aware that invitations to join card games for money should be refused, as they are usually a con. Moreover, this type of gambling is illegal.

When dealing with travel agencies, foreigners should ensure the company is a reputable tour organization before providing payment. Disputes may be reported to the Tourism Authority of Thailand at 1672 toll-free.

Victims of crime or scams should report the incident to the Thai police in the jurisdiction where the incident occurred, and before leaving Thailand. You may contact the Tourist Police and the Tourist Assistance Centre by calling 1155 toll-free.

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4. ENTRY/EXIT REQUIREMENTS

It is the sole prerogative of each country or region to determine who is allowed to enter. All countries or regions have special requirements for persons intending to reside for extended periods (usually more than 90 days) or who plan to work, study, or engage in non-tourist activities. To obtain information on specific entry requirements, contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) to be visited. Violations of entry and exit requirements may result in serious penalties.

The following information on entry and exit requirements has been confirmed with the Thai authorities. However, these requirements are subject to change at any time. It is the traveller’s responsibility to check with the Royal Thai Embassy and its consulates, for up-to-date information. More information is available at the Thai Immigration Bureau.

A valid Canadian passport in good condition is required for Canadians intending to visit Thailand. The passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the date of entry into the country. An onward or return ticket is also required.

Holders of regular Canadian passports arriving by air for the purposes of tourism may enter Thailand for up to 30 days without requesting a visa in advance, while those entering Thailand overland from neighbouring countries for tourism purposes may stay for up to 15 days. According to Thai law, holders of Canadian special and diplomatic passports are required to obtain a visa at a Thai diplomatic mission abroad. Canadians who wish to stay longer, work, or study, should obtain the proper visa from a Thai embassy or consulate. It is illegal to work on a tourist visa or without a work permit.

Overstaying your visa is considered an offence under Thai law. It will result in a fine of 500 baht per day and can also lead to detention and deportation at your expense. Foreigners are permitted to stay only up to the date indicated on the Thai entry stamp, regardless of the date indicated on a Thai visa. The Royal Thai Police have increased their random checks of foreigners, and Canadians found to have overstayed their visas have been arrested.

Travellers must obtain an entry stamp from an immigration officer at a point of entry into Thailand. Visas, visa extensions, or entry stamps issued through visa shops or travel agents in Thailand should be avoided. Canadians have been arrested for having improper Thai visas or entry and exit stamps inserted into their passports. A passport that has been altered or that contains counterfeit visas and entry/exit stamps is technically invalid. Offenders can expect jail sentences, fines, and/or deportation, and may also be prohibited from entering Thailand in the future.

All foreigners staying in Thailand longer than three months are required to notify the Thai Immigration Bureau of their residence every 90 days.

Visa Exemption: Provided on arrival for stays of up to 15 days when entering overland or for stays of up to 30 days when entering by air
Tourist Visa: Required for stays over 15 days when entering by land or for stays over 30 days when entering by air
Business Visa: Required
Student Visa: Required
Working Visa: Required

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A Certificate of Canadian Citizenship is not a travel document. A Canadian passport is the only reliable and universally accepted travel and identification document available to Canadians for the purpose of international travel. Canadian citizens returning to Canada who present other documents, such as a Certificate of Canadian Citizenship, birth certificate, provincial driver’s license, or foreign passport, instead of a Canadian passport, may face delays or be denied boarding by transport companies.

Selling, altering, or allowing another person to use your passport is a criminal offence. It could lead to the laying of charges and imprisonment if convicted. It could also lead to the denial of future passport services.

Special and diplomatic passport holders should verify all visa requirements for this and other destinations, as they may differ from those that apply to regular passport holders.

Any adult travelling with children may be required to show evidence of parental/custodial and/or access rights. Foreign and Canadian authorities may also require evidence that the adult has the consent of the parents, legal guardian, and/or the court to travel with the children. Some countries or regions may not permit children to enter or, in some cases, leave the country or region without proper documentation such as a letter of consent or a court order.

Although same-sex marriages are legal in Canada, many countries or regions do not recognize them. Attempting to enter as a same-sex married couple may result in refusal by local officials. For more information, contact the foreign government office accredited to Canada.

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5. CANADIAN GOVERNMENT CONTACTS

You can obtain consular assistance and further consular information at the following addresses:

Thailand - BANGKOK, Embassy of Canada
Address: 15th Floor, Abdulrahim Place, 990 Rama IV, Bangrak, Bangkok, 10500, Thailand
Postal Address: P.O. Box 2090, Bangkok, 10501
Tel.: 66 (0) 2636-0540
Emergency toll-free to Ottawa: 001-800-156-220-0142
Fax: 66 (0) 2636-0555
E-Mail: bngkk-cs@international.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.thailand.gc.ca

Thailand - CHIANG MAI, Consulate of Canada
Address: 151 Super Highway, Tambon Tahsala, Amphur Muang, Chiang Mai, 50000, Thailand
Tel.: 66 (0) 5385-0147 or 5324-2292
Emergency toll-free to Ottawa: 001-800-156-220-0142
Fax: 66 (0) 5385-0147
E-Mail: cancon@loxinfo.co.th
Internet: http://www.thailand.gc.ca

For emergency assistance after hours, call the Embassy of Canada in Bangkok and follow the instructions, or call the Department in Ottawa directly using the numbers above.

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6. TRAVEL HEALTH

The Public Health Agency of Canada and the World Health Organization (WHO) report on disease outbreaks that occur throughout the world. For the latest travel health advisories and related information, visit the Public Health Agency of Canada’s Travel Health Web site.

The Public Health Agency of Canada continues to closely monitor and report on occurrences of avian influenza A (H5N1), or "bird flu", in humans and in birds. Further information on avian influenza A (H5N1) and recommendations for travellers can be found on the Public Health Agency of Canada's Travel Medicine Web site as well as on the World Health Organization's Web site. For more information, see our Global Issues page on Avian Influenza.

There are current or recent outbreaks of chikungunya in areas of Africa and Asia and the Indian subcontinent, including India, Indonesia, Madagascar, Malaysia, Singapore, Sri Lanka and Thailand. For more information, see the Public Health Agency of Canada's (PHAC) website.

For information on the transmission of dengue fever, please consult the Public Health Agency of Canada's Web site.

Since 2003, there have been 17 confirmed human deaths due to Avian Influenza in Thailand, according to the World Health Organization. There have been no deaths reported since September 2006. Travellers should avoid poultry farms, contact with animals in live-food markets, and any surfaces that appear to be contaminated with feces from poultry or other animals.

The Public Health Agency of Canada strongly recommends that your travel plans include contacting a travel medicine clinic or physician six to eight weeks before departure. Based on your individual risk assessment, a health care professional can determine your need for immunizations and/or preventive medication and advise you on precautions to avoid disease. Travellers are reminded to ensure that their routine (childhood) immunizations (e.g., tetanus, diphtheria, polio, and measles) are up to date.

Standards of medical care may differ from those in Canada. Treatment may be expensive, and payment in advance may be required. Travellers are advised to arrange for medical insurance prior to departure. Prescription medications should be kept in the original container and packed in carry-on luggage.

The Public Health Agency of Canada also recommends that travellers who become sick or feel unwell on their return to Canada seek a medical assessment with their personal physician. Travellers should inform their physician that they have been travelling or living outside of Canada.

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7. ADDITIONAL HEALTH INFORMATION

In response to the H1N1 Flu Virus outbreak, increased surveillance and control measures have been implemented by Thai authorities. All international travellers arriving at airports and some land border crossings will be required to proceed through thermal imaging channels and will be required to complete a questionnaire. Canadians who develop symptoms of influenza should seek medical advice.  Further information concerning H1N1 is available through the Public Health Agency of Canada and the World Health Organization. For information in Thailand, contact the Ministry of Public Health at 0 2590 1994 and 0 2590 3333.

In some areas of Thailand, proof of insurance may be required to obtain emergency medical care. Emergency evacuation may cost tens of thousands of dollars or more, depending on the location and severity of the condition. Medical care varies in quality across the country. Travellers in need of medical care are encouraged to go to Bangkok, where hospitals that meet international standards may be found.

Several Canadians each year suffer episodes of psychiatric distress which can be brought on by pre-existing mental illness or as a result of illicit drug use. Thailand’s heat, noise and large crowds may also prove a challenge for some travellers. Psychiatric/ psychological facilities and services in Thailand may not meet international standards.  Canadians with mental illness have been committed to state facilities, arrested and deported. Families and travellers should consult a medical professional before travelling. Many travel/medical insurance policies explicitly do not cover psychiatric care.

Dengue fever is common in Thailand, including in urban areas, and there has been a sharp increase in the number of cases in 2008.

Rabies vaccination is recommended due to the large number of stray dogs throughout Bangkok.

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8. LAWS AND CUSTOMS

You are subject to local laws. A serious violation may lead to a jail or death sentence. The sentence will be served in local prisons.

Canadians arrested or detained have the right to contact the responsible Canadian government office (embassy, high commission, etc.) listed in Section 5 above. Arresting officials have a responsibility to assist you in doing so. Canadian consular officials can provide a list of local lawyers upon request.

The procedures required in legal proceedings or police investigations may be different from the procedures in force in the Canadian legal system. Canadians wishing to undertake such proceedings can expect to face long delays and additional efforts in order to resolve their case. The Government of Canada cannot intervene in ongoing legal proceedings in other countries or regions, unless requested to do so by local authorities. Such requests are rare.

Enforcement action against people involved in all aspect of illicit drugs has increased significantly. Canadians are reminded that Thai laws regarding illegal drugs are very strict and include the death penalty for serious offences. The possession of even small amounts of illegal drugs, including marijuana, can result in severe fines and/or prison sentences. Canadians may be prevented from leaving Thailand for several months while legal proceedings are in process.

Visitors should be aware that night-time police spot-checks to search for illegal drugs have become common in and around entertainment venues in Thailand. Uniformed or undercover police may search pockets, purses, and bags, as well as vehicles. You may be asked to consent to a urine test. If you carry prescription or other medicines, it is preferable that they be in clearly marked, original packaging. Foreigners are required to carry identification at all times. Great care should be taken if you carry your passport, especially in entertainment venues. You may wish to carry a photocopy of your passport; however, police may require that you produce the original.

Gambling, with the exception of some horse-racing, is illegal in Thailand and gambling-related scams are common.

It is a criminal offence in Thailand to make any derogatory or insulting comments about the King or other members of the Royal family. Any person making such comments is liable to arrest and prosecution. Purposely tearing or destroying Thai bank notes, which carry an image of the King, may be considered such an offence.

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9. TRAVEL AND CURRENCY

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is required or a Thai driver licence is required to drive in Thailand.

Travellers should be aware of recent frequent disruptions of rail transport due to weather-related derailments as well as labour disputes. Travellers should verify their travel plans and schedules with local railway authorities.

Motorcycle accidents kill or maim several Canadians each year. Driving or riding motorcycles in Thailand is dangerous and should be avoided, even by experienced motorcyclists. Substandard road conditions, local disregard for traffic laws, and drunk driving result in frequent accidents, particularly in the areas of Bangkok, Pattaya, Phuket and Koh Samui. Although motorcycles can be easily rented in Thailand, Canadians are reminded that it is illegal to operate a motorcycle without a valid Thai motorcycle licence or an International Driving Permit with a motorcycle endorsement. Helmets are mandatory for motorcycle drivers and passengers, but many helmets do not meet international safety standards. Motorcyclists are required to carry their identification card, driver's licence and vehicle registration book at all times.

Traffic drives on the left. Paved roads connect major cities, but most have only two lanes. Private vehicle and tour bus accidents caused by dangerous road conditions, poor weather, driver fatigue, and driver intoxication are common. Slow-moving trucks limit speed and visibility. Speeding and reckless passing is common. Motorists should avoid mountain roads at night, especially during the rainy season (July-October).

There have been several incidents of passenger boats sinking due to overcrowding and poor maintenance. Vessels often lack adequate safety equipment.

Rail lines in the far South have been the target of acts of sabotage and armed attack.

Since June 1, 2007, new airline security measures were introduced for all domestic and international flights departing from Thailand. These restrictions limit the quantities of liquid, aerosols and gels taken on board the aircraft in carry-on baggage.

Bangkok is serviced by two airports: the new Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK), located approximately 30km east of Bangkok, and Don Mueang Airport (DMK).  All international flights and THAI Airways domestic flights operate out of Suvarnabhumi Airport, while Don Mueang airport is used by budget airlines for domestic flights.  Travellers should check their travel itinerary carefully and should allow a minimum of 3 hours connection time between airports.  Information regarding the status of flights and airport services at Suvarnabhumi Airport can be obtained from the call center at +66 (0) 2132-1888. Information concerning Don Mueang Airport can be obtained at +66 (0) 2535 7681.

All passengers over 2 years of age using airport facilities in Thailand will be required to pay a passenger service charge. These fees are included in the ticket price for most passengers. Some domestic airlines and private airports may levy additional passenger service charges of 700 baht for international passengers and 100 baht for domestic passengers.

On August 04, 2009, a Bangkok Airways aircraft skidded off the runway in Samui during inclement weather, killing the pilot.  On September 16, 2007, a One-Two-Go passenger plane travelling from Bangkok crashed at the Phuket International Airport in southern Thailand, as it attempted to land during bad weather conditions. The accident caused more than 80 deaths including one Canadian.

Some local discount airlines have recently come under scrutiny and may not meet international safety standards. Canadians should arrange transportation only through reputable companies.

See our FAQ on transportation in order to verify if national airlines meet safety standards.

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The currency is the baht (THB). Major credit cards are widely accepted. Traveller's cheques are accepted at banks, large hotels, and shops. U.S. dollar traveller's cheques are recommended.

Check with your bank for information on automated banking machine (ABM) services outside Canada. You can also check the VISA ATM locator page or the MasterCard ATM locator page for the addresses of ABMs around the world. Verify with your financial institution whether your bank card can be used with ABMs abroad. Some countries use chip and/or personal identification number (PIN) technology for credit cards. Check with your bank to find out if your credit card will be accepted abroad. Credit cards and debit cards should be used with caution due to the potential for fraud and other criminal activity. ABMs should be used during business hours inside a bank, supermarket, or large commercial building. Leave copies of your card numbers with a family member in case of emergency.

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10. NATURAL DISASTERS AND CLIMATE

The rainy (or monsoon) season extends from June to October. Severe rainstorms can cause flash floods and mudslides, interrupt essential services, and delay overland travel, especially in remote locations. Jungle treks are not advisable during this time of year, due to the possibility of mudslides. Trekkers should use licensed reliable tour guides.  Flash flooding in caves has caused fatalities. Travellers may consult the Thai Meteorological Department or the Mekong River Commission website for additional information. Travellers should verify travel plans with service providers before departure.

See our Global Issues page for information on typhoons and monsoons.

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11. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Returning to Canada

Traveller's Checklist

Health and Travel Insurance: Do not rely on your provincial health plan to cover all expenses if you get sick or are injured while abroad. It may cover nothing or only a portion of the costs. Understand the terms of your supplementary insurance policy. Some credit cards offer their holders health and travel insurance. Do not assume the card alone provides adequate coverage. Carry details of your insurance with you. Also, tell your travel agent, a friend or relative, and/or travelling companion how to contact your insurer. Get a detailed invoice from the doctor or hospital before you return to Canada. Always submit original receipts for any medical services or prescriptions received abroad. Most insurance companies will not accept copies or faxes.

Cancelling a scheduled trip abroad could cost you money. Before cancelling a scheduled trip, you should discuss the matter with your travel agent, your travel insurer, or the airline. The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller.

Adoption: Provincial and territorial authorities in Canada are responsible for authorizing international adoptions. If you are thinking of adopting a child abroad, you must first obtain information about the adoption regulations of the province or territory in which the child will reside. While adoption is a provincial/territorial responsibility, Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) is responsible for allowing an adopted child entry into Canada. Entry can be refused if the child does not hold the appropriate immigrant visa. A visa may be denied, even if the adoption has already been completed. For more information contact CIC at 1 888 242-2100 (in Canada only), check the CIC Web site or contact your provincial or territorial government.

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12. ANNEX

N/A

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