Thailand is going through a period of political transition, raising questions for many travelers. Is it still safe to visit? What is the impact on tourism? This page is your go-to guide, continuously updated to provide you with clear information, practical advice, and the latest news to help you plan your trip with peace of mind.
What you need to know before you go (October 2025)
- Is it safe to travel to Thailand right now? Yes. Popular tourist areas (Phuket, Chiang Mai, Koh Samui, etc.) are not affected by political tensions, which remain mainly localized to specific protests in Bangkok.
- Is there an impact on visas? The government has confirmed plans for a temporary visa exemption for several countries to boost tourism during the upcoming high season.
- What precautions should I take? It is advisable to avoid political rallies in Bangkok and to follow local health recommendations, especially regarding dengue fever and weather alerts.
Latest news in Thailand (updated on October 1, 2025)
Here are the 5 key points to know:
- New Prime Minister: Anutin Charnvirakul was officially appointed in early September. However, his coalition is considered fragile, and new legislative elections are already planned within four months.
- Relative Political Calm: Following pro-democracy protests in Bangkok in early September, the situation has remained calm, with no major incidents reported at the end of the month.
- Strong Tourism Rebound: Thailand welcomed 22.3 million foreign visitors by September 7, 2025, generating very encouraging revenue for the sector.
- Visa Exemption Confirmed: A temporary visa waiver for several countries will be implemented for the high season to stimulate the economy.
- Weather Alerts: In late September, flood warnings were issued for the northern, northeastern, and central regions of the country due to a tropical storm.
For an in-depth analysis of the political situation, see our main article: Thailand’s Political Crisis: Border Conflict at the Heart of Tensions.
💡 Local news & events feed updated on October 1, 2025.
Security & justice in Thailand
This section covers recent news related to security and justice issues that may concern tourists and residents.
Imprisonment of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra
Bangkok, September 9, 2025 – The Supreme Court ordered the immediate imprisonment of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra to serve a one-year sentence, marking a significant turn in the Shinawatra family’s political saga.
Pro-democracy protests in Bangkok
Bangkok, September 7, 2025 – Several thousand protesters gathered near the Democracy Monument following the formation of the new government. The rallies concluded without major incidents.
Probe into massive pile-up near Bangkok
Nonthaburi, August 17, 2025 – Police are investigating whether an illegal street race was the cause of a spectacular 11-vehicle pile-up, which resulted in three minor injuries.
Pattaya shooting incident
Pattaya, August 10, 2025 – A shooting broke out in a tourist area, causing widespread panic but no serious injuries.
For official and constantly updated security information, it is highly recommended to consult the travel advice for Thailand from the UK Government.
Health & society in Thailand
Flood and tropical storm alerts
Late September 2025 – The meteorological department issued warnings for Tropical Storm “Bualoi,” causing torrential rains and a risk of flooding in dozens of provinces, particularly in the northern and central parts of the country.
Dengue fever surge in the south
September 2025 – The Department of Disease Control confirms a worrying increase in dengue cases in the Krabi and Phang Nga provinces, urging heightened vigilance against mosquitoes.
Declining birth rate concerns
Late September 2025 – A survey revealed that only 63% of Thai women wish to have children, highlighting a declining birth rate trend that concerns authorities as the population ages.
Crackdown on youth vaping
September 2025 – Health experts are raising alarms about the rise in e-cigarette use among children and teenagers, despite a nationwide ban.
Unusual events & stories
Here is a selection of recent unusual news from Thailand.
Public indecency video in Phuket causes shock
Phuket, September 27, 2025 – The filming of a pornographic video in a public place in broad daylight in Phuket caused an uproar on social media, prompting authorities to search for the individuals involved.
Dramatic road collapse in Bangkok
Bangkok, mid-September 2025 – A section of Samsen Road suddenly collapsed in front of a hospital, creating an impressive sinkhole several meters deep. Fortunately, the incident resulted in no casualties.
Ex-girlfriend’s revenge ruins a vacation
September 2025 – A Scottish tourist’s dream trip turned into a nightmare when his ex-girlfriend, from Scotland, reported his passport as lost, leaving him stranded in Thailand and unable to return home.
Potential discovery of a new dinosaur species
August 7, 2025 – Paleontologists announced the discovery of fossils that may belong to a new dinosaur species, a major find for the country’s scientific heritage.
🔄 Last updated on September 30, 2025
