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UK Foreign Office Urges Action: Critical Advice for Brits Traveling in Thailand

  • This warning also pertains to travelers visiting Cambodia since the borders remain closed.
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The UK Government has revised its guidelines for British vacationers traveling to Thailand and Cambodia.

The Thai military has shut down the nation's border crossings with Cambodia following an escalation in tensions between the two neighboring Southeast Asian nations.

On the updated FCDO guidance page for Thailand, the Foreign Office states: "The land borders and crossings between Thailand and Cambodia are currently closed as a result of a disagreement between the two countries."

'Exercise additional caution and remain vigilant in border regions, adhering to the directives provided by local officials, particularly when visiting popular sites like the Preah Vihear temple, the Ta Kwai temple, and the Ta Muen Thom temple.'

'Additionally, there are unused landmines in the border region. Stick to designated trails, particularly near Ta Krabey.'

At present, the border remains closed to almost all visitors, including those coming from abroad for tourism purposes.

Thailand's Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra announced on Monday that the country will prohibit departing tourists from leaving.

Exemptions exist for students, individuals requiring medical treatment, and those needing to buy vital items.

The Cambodian government's guidance from the Foreign Office included an updated alert regarding the sealed land borders.

It suggests that tourists should "heed the guidance of local authorities" and "exercise additional caution."

The relationship between the two nations has been strained since May due to an exchange of gunfire at a disputed section of their shared boundary.

A Cambodian military personnel lost their life during the incident involving the two nations. Following this event, Cambodia imposed a ban on Thai movies being aired on television and in movie theaters and also introduced limitations on imports from Thailand.

Thailand and Cambodia are widely favored among backpackers, attracting numerous travelers who often explore both nations during a single journey.

Referred to as the 'Banana Pancake Trail,' travelers often adhere to a path that traverses Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, and Laos.

A lot of travelers prefer crossing through the nation's terrestrial boundaries instead of using domestic air travel.

One of the most heavily trafficked borders between these two nations is at Poipet, which is near both Bangkok and the historic city of Siem Reap in Cambodia.

Local media reported that many travellers remained trapped at the intersection following the border shutdown early on June 24.

The casino sector in Cambodia is expected to feel the effects of the shutdown since these establishments are major attractions for tourists from Thailand.

Casinos located in Cambodia's capital Phnom Penh are a central part of its tourism industry.

The Foreign Office has recently revised its travel guidance for Dubai as well. and other crucial Middle Eastern locations because of the Iran-Israel conflict.

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