Irish tourists advised to be ‘extremely cautious’ in Thailand

Irish citizens intending to visit Thailand are being encouraged to be extremely cautious and keep up to date on the political situation there – but so far the Department of Foreign Affairs is not advising people to stay away from the Asian travel hub.

The Irish Travel Agents’ Association says it is continuing to take bookings for holidays in Thailand - and those who have booked holidays have been advised that if they cancel they will not be entitled to a refunding of booking deposits and payments.

Ireland does not have an embassy in Thailand – it is one of a number of proposed new diplomatic missions and the situation there is being monitored through the Irish Embassy in Malaysia and EU partner embassies.

The Department of Foreign Affairs said those intending to travel should check regularly the travel advice on its website dfa.ie.

A spokesman said Irish citizens already in Thailand should exercise extreme caution, monitor developments via media and social media, and follow the instructions of the authorities.

Irish citizens should fully respect the curfew and take extra care to avoid any demonstrations, protests or security operations. The spokesman said those who are in Thailand should register with the department through the website.

Joan Scales, travel adviser with The Irish Times, said travellers to Thailand should adopt four rules. These are:

* Stay away from demonstrations

* Register with the Department of Foreign Affairs

* Keep abreast of events on television, radio and social media

* Book travel through a recognised travel agent