Thailand : Safety by City
Thailand is one of the most visited countries in Southeast Asia for a reason, sitting right in the middle of the action, bordered by Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia, and Malaysia.
Coastlines that touch both the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand.
The country has a long, layered history, never colonized, but deeply shaped by royal dynasties, wars, and cultural shifts.
From ancient kingdoms like Sukhothai and Ayutthaya to today’s bustling modern monarchy, Thailand is constantly evolving while holding onto its traditions.
Right now, though, concerns are bubbling.
A deadly building collapse following the March 2025 earthquake raised major questions about construction standards.
And long-running political unrest in the far south has put a spotlight on regional instability.
Still, most of Thailand is safe, open, and very ready for visitors.
More than 35 million people traveled here in 2024 alone, marking a post-pandemic surge that’s reshaping tourism all over again.
From mountain trekking and elephant sanctuaries up north to temple-hopping and street food in Bangkok, Thailand’s got range.
The northeast (Isaan) stays mostly off the tourist radar but delivers big on food, ruins, and raw authenticity.
Out east, quieter beach towns and national parks offer an easy coastal escape without the chaos.
We’ll get into what’s happening on the ground, where it’s safe, where it’s not, and how to experience the best of Thailand while avoiding the avoidable.
Warnings & Dangers in Thailand
OVERALL RISK: LOW
Thailand’s overall risk for travelers is low, especially if you stick to tourist-friendly areas. That said, some regions do carry higher warnings due to political violence or unrest (mainly in the far south). For most visitors, the biggest risk is underestimating how different the rules and norms are. Do your homework and you’ll be fine.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM
Medium risk. Tuk-tuks are fun but often overpriced, and unmetered taxis love to overcharge tourists. Stick to apps like Grab or use clearly marked taxi stands. Driving yourself, especially on a scooter, comes with a serious accident risk. Roads are chaotic, signage is inconsistent, and helmets are non-negotiable if you value your brain.
PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM
Crowded night markets, train stations, and party streets are prime zones for pickpocketing. That's why this is a medium risk. Don’t hang your bag on the back of your chair, and avoid flashy watches or loose phones in your back pocket. Most theft here is quick and quiet (not violent), but still annoying.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM
Given the major quake in early 2025, the risk is medium. However, you can't really plan travel around earthquake weather. Flooding can mess with travel plans during the rainy season, especially in Bangkok. And air quality in the north can get bad between February and April.
MUGGING RISK: LOW
Violent street crime against tourists isn’t common. Most incidents happen late at night when alcohol’s involved or someone wanders too far from a central area. Stay in well-lit spots, skip the sketchy shortcuts, and avoid confrontation if something feels off.
TERRORISM RISK: MEDIUM
Medium, but situational. In most of the country, this isn't top of mind. The exception is the southern provinces, where separatist violence can still flare up. Occasionally, Bangkok sees heightened security during major events or political protests. Stay aware, not paranoid.
SCAMS RISK: LOW
Thailand is friendly, but that doesn’t mean everyone has good intentions. In fact, that affable demeanor can catch you off guard with the multitude of scams here. Expect inflated prices, fake gem shops, shady visa services, and the classic “closed temple” scam. If something feels too helpful or too convenient, it probably is. Politely walk away.
WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW
Low for most solo or group travelers, especially in cities and well-touristed areas. Thai culture is generally respectful, but you’ll want to dress modestly at temples and be cautious when partying. Avoid accepting drinks from strangers and watch your alcohol intake. You know, basic rules that apply anywhere.
TAP WATER RISK: MEDIUM
Technically, it’s treated, but not to a standard most travelers’ stomachs will agree with. It's a medium risk. Stick to bottled water, even for brushing your teeth. Ice is usually okay in places that serve tourists, but if you’re deep in a village or eating at a roadside stall, double-check.
Safest Places to Visit in Thailand
The official tourism website for Thailand is tourismthailand.org.
I recommend checking out the Plan Your Trip section and finding the 10 Essential Apps list to help you with adventures.
Thailand’s pretty spread out, and each region brings something different to the table.
Here’s what’s worth seeing, depending on where you go.
Northern Thailand is all about mountains, night markets, and a slightly cooler vibe (literally and culturally).
Chiang Mai is the hub—expect tons of temples, cooking classes, and elephant sanctuaries (go ethical).
Chiang Rai is smaller and quieter but has standout sites like the White Temple and nearby tea plantations.
This area is big on hiking and hill tribe villages, too.
Northeastern Thailand (Isaan) is where most tourists don’t go—and they’re missing out.
It’s got a totally different rhythm, way fewer crowds, and some of the best food in the country.
You’ll find Khmer-style ruins in places like Phanom Rung and Phimai, and epic natural parks like Pha Taem near the Laos border with cliff views and ancient rock art.
Khon Kaen and Ubon Ratchathani are solid bases if you want to explore the region.
Central Thailand includes Bangkok, which is exactly as intense and weird and fun as people say.
You’ve got the Grand Palace, canal rides, street food at every turn, and skyscraper rooftop bars.
Just outside the city, Ayutthaya offers crumbling temples and bike tours with rice field views.
If you’re templed-out, head to Kanchanaburi for waterfalls, caves, and the WWII-era Death Railway.
Eastern Thailand is where the beach meets local life.
Pattaya is chaotic, but places like Rayong and Chanthaburi have quieter coastlines, good seafood, and fewer international crowds.
Easy to reach, easy to enjoy.
Places to Avoid in Thailand
Depending on which country’s travel advisory you’re reading, the southern provinces of Yala, Pattani, Narathiwat, and parts of Songkhla range from Level 3 (Reconsider Travel) to Level 4 (Do Not Travel).
This isn’t just bureaucratic caution.
There’s a real domestic insurgency in these areas that’s been going on for years.
The violence is mainly aimed at Thai government forces, but bombs, shootings, and other attacks have hit public places.
In Songkhla, the problem is concentrated in districts like Chana, Thepha, Nathawat, and Saba Yoi.
Tourists aren’t being targeted specifically, but there’s always the risk of being in the wrong place at the wrong time.
To put it in perspective: U.S. Embassy staff can’t even go there without special permission, which means if you get into trouble, help may not be quick or available at all.
Unless you have a very specific reason and serious local contacts, you’re better off steering clear of these provinces entirely.
Safety Tips for Traveling to Thailand
- Tourist Police are a thing in Thailand, and yes, they’re real police. They speak some English and deal with visitors specifically. You can reach them by dialing 1155. For emergencies like theft or assault, dial 191 (general police) or 1669 (medical). Keep those numbers saved. Cell service is usually decent, even on the islands.
- Thailand doesn’t have a nationwide text alert system like the U.S., but local news and embassy notices are your best bet. Follow the U.S. Embassy Bangkok on social media or sign up for STEP (Smart Traveler Enrollment Program) to get emails if something goes down, like civil unrest, weather warnings, or regional violence.
- You don’t need anything wild to enter Thailand, but staying current on Hep A, Hep B, and tetanus is smart. If you’re planning rural travel, add Japanese encephalitis and typhoid to the list. No COVID-related entry requirements as of 2025, but always check before you fly.
- Mosquitoes are the real villains. Dengue is the most common mosquito-borne illness here, and there’s no vaccine for it (unless you’re Thai). Wear repellent like it’s your job. Rabies is also a risk if you’re getting too friendly with street dogs. Malaria’s rare unless you’re deep in the jungle.
- You need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to legally drive here, and even then, good luck. Traffic rules are loosely followed, scooters fly from every direction, and road fatalities are no joke. Ride-hailing apps are safer, and if you do rent a scooter, wear a helmet and don’t assume anyone sees you.
- Scam alert: People will offer to do “visa runs” for you—basically take your passport to a neighboring country and bring it back stamped. Hard no. Never give your passport to anyone who promises visa help. If it goes missing or something shady happens, you’re stuck in a foreign country without ID. Not worth it.
- Some rental shops, especially for scooters, will ask to hold your passport “just in case.” Again—don’t. There are stories of shops claiming you caused damage and refusing to return it unless you pay up. Leave a copy or a cash deposit instead. Your passport is not a bargaining chip.
- If you’ve seen Brokedown Palace or A Prayer Before Dawn, know this: those weren’t exaggerations. Thai prisons are overcrowded, brutal, and absolutely not the place to land over a joint or shoplifting a bottle of sunscreen. Even some meds that are legal back home are banned here. Know what’s in your bag.
- Northern Thailand (think Chiang Mai) can have awful air quality between February and April due to crop burning and smoke from surrounding countries. It’s called “burning season,” and it’s as bad as it sounds. If you’re sensitive or asthmatic, wear a KN95 or skip this region until the skies clear.
- Yes, Thai beaches are stunning, but box jellyfish have made a few fatal appearances in the Gulf of Thailand. You won’t always see warning signs, but if you’re in areas like Koh Samui or Koh Phangan, ask locals if the jellyfish are around. These aren’t “oh it stings” jellyfish; they can kill you.
So... How Safe Is Thailand Really?
They say any publicity is good publicity, but I don’t think the tourism ministry in Thailand would agree.
The past few months have been rough for the country’s image, with headlines that read more like a disaster movie script than a travel brochure.
In March 2025, a massive 7.7 earthquake struck just across the border in Myanmar, but the damage didn’t stop there.
In Bangkok, a high-rise under construction pancaked to the ground, killing at least 96 people.
That has led to questions about the structural integrity of other buildings.
The chair of the non-profit Federation of Thai Industries, Kriengkrai Thiennukul, said shortly after the disaster, “Thailand remains a safe tourism destination, with government officials maintaining vigilant monitoring of conditions, conducting comprehensive building safety inspections, and providing support to those affected by the earthquake.”
Just a few months before, Chinese actor Wang Xing was abducted after flying to Thailand for what he thought was a legit job.
He ended up trafficked into Myanmar.
Thankfully, he made it home, but it spotlighted a shady undercurrent that exists in parts of the region.
Thai police have since arrested ten Chinese nationals tied to the case.
Then, we get to the government travel advisories.
Between the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia, the base risk level spans either Level 1: Exercise Standard Precautions or Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution.
That said, they all agree that the southern provinces should be avoided.
There has been a long-running conflict between separatist groups and the Thai government, especially in Yala, Pattani, Narathiwat, and parts of Songkhla.
The violence isn’t constant, but it’s unpredictable.
While I always recommend reading the latest travel advisories before visiting any country, it’s particularly important as Thailand rebuilds and recovers.
How Does Thailand Compare?
| Country | Safety Index |
|---|---|
| Thailand | 48 |
| Djibouti | 38 |
| Croatia | 83 |
| Mexico | 65 |
| France | 64 |
| Puerto Rico | 34 |
| Somalia | 16 |
| United Kingdom | 77 |
| Peru | 50 |
Useful Information
Visas
Most travelers from the U.S., Canada, and the EU can now stay in Thailand for up to 60 days without a visa. Just make sure your passport is valid for at least six months, and you’ve filled out the new Thailand Digital Arrival Card online before you land.
Currency
The Thai Baht (THB) is the local currency, and while digital payments are catching on, cash is still king in smaller towns and markets. Exchange rates hover around 33–34 baht to the dollar in 2025. ATMs are everywhere, but watch for fees. Grab some cash at the airport or a legit exchange counter.
Weather
Expect heat and humidity year-round, with a few seasonal shifts. March to May are brutally hot, June to October brings heavy rain (but also great deals), and November to February is when the weather actually feels nice—think low 80s and drier air. That’s peak tourist season for a reason.
Airports
Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi (BKK) is the big international hub, and it’s been upgraded a lot with faster lines, better signage, and more food. Don Mueang (DMK) handles budget flights. Phuket, Chiang Mai, and Krabi also have solid airports with direct international options, so you don’t always have to fly through Bangkok.
Travel Insurance
Thailand doesn’t require travel insurance, but you’d be smart to have it. Most hospitals won’t treat you without upfront payment if you're uninsured.
Thailand Weather Averages (Temperatures)
Average High/Low Temperature
| Temperature / Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High °C |
32 | 33 | 35 | 36 | 34 | 33 | 33 | 32 | 32 | 32 | 31 | 30 |
| Low °C |
21 | 23 | 25 | 26 | 26 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 24 | 24 | 22 | 20 |
| High °F |
90 | 91 | 95 | 97 | 93 | 91 | 91 | 90 | 90 | 90 | 88 | 86 |
| Low °F |
70 | 73 | 77 | 79 | 79 | 77 | 77 | 77 | 75 | 75 | 72 | 68 |
Thailand - Safety by City
| City | Safety Index |
|---|---|
| Bangkok | 49 |
| Chiang Mai | 73 |
| Krabi | 70 |
| Pattaya | 42 |
| Phuket | 45 |
Thailand is safer than the USA
This review is so full of shit. Thailand is overall much safer than the USA. Yes it has bad parts, but the US has more. An idiot wrote this page.
I totally agree. I’ve been visiting Thailand since 2004 and it is one of the safest places I’ve been. Bangkok is a massive is a massive city but it doesn’t have no go neighborhoods like many US or EU cities. The biggest danger is scams, but if you are not greedy it is easy to avoid. Saying it is a high risk country is a joke.
Thinkin of moving to Thailand
Thank you for letting us know.
Safe but watch out!
I have been coming to Thailand for 50 years. I can carry on a simple conversation in Thai. 99% are friendly beyond you dreams. But….I have been pulled off my motorcycle by thieves trying to rob the passenger on the back. Result: broken back. Most recently I have had my recently repaired hearing aids from the US taken by customs and held for tax charges. I have had them for 3 years and returned them to the original place where I bought them for repairs. I have had to simply abandon them, being unable to provide original doctors prescription, sales receipt, etc. Losses approximately $2,000. Do not have anything sent to you while you are in Thailand. You either will not receive it or it will cost you excessively.
Lol a broken back dont sound too friendly to me . Some people never learn .
it’s pretty good
Thailand is safe.
Whoever wrote this article is a shitster. Thailand is beautiful of its own and it is actually quite safe to travel.
Traveled to Thailand with my fiancé and we never felt unsafe, we even had complete strangers help us out when we got a flat tire on our motorcycle on a remote road an hour out of Chiangmai. Took public transport in Bangkok all the time and also never saw any threats.
Same review as for all the other Southeast Asian countries. People are only friendly when they can sell you something, otherwise very unfriendly and aggressive. Thais are probably the most racist people out there (right behind the Chinese). They hate white people, they hate black people and they also hate every Asian from outside. Weird bunch.
your experience is a reflection of your attitude.
Thailand is very safe for tourist
This is so wrong. I visit Thailand almost every year and it’s one of the safest and tourist friendly country i’ve been to. Bangkok might feels crazy because of the crazy traffic but it is very safe. I can walk around at night anywhere and most locals do too.
Respect
The fact is there are bad areas everywhere, it’s all about how your carry yourself! Walk around acting like an over privilege stuck up idiot and you will become a target! Walk around flaunting all this expensive stuff you own you will be a target . As in America you will be a target as such in Thailand . Your in a different country show these countrymen some respect and you shall receive it in return
More like dont listen to the idiot commenters . The poster is correct . Tland will have dumb farangs for breakfast if cause Thai to lose face , the whole street will mob ya . Taxis carry guns , corrupt cops shake ya down for bahts . Even the women can be dangerous . Ladyboy groups will MuayThai ur @ss down and rob ya . I wouldn’t even trust a monk there . Asia has a thing for chopping pee pees too so if she seems sketchy then gtfo . Stick to Chiang Mai if staying long term. It’s the more peaceful ,rural region . Bangkok and Pattaya a dam zoo .
what have i just read 💀
double pricing
Don’t forget “double pricing” scams. A Thai sees a foreigner walking up and the prices immediately go up. Always get estimates or listed prices before buying anything.
Never had problems in Thailand
Been to Bankok, Pattaya. Ban Chang, Chunburi. NEVER had a problem. Just dont act like an ass, be polite. “SMILE” !!!! Tuk tuk drivers were friendly, taxis were friendly (from bangkok airport all the way to Ban Chang). NEVER HAD A PROBLEM! Although we were two good sized white males traveling on vaca. Nobody F’d with us. I got sak yants, bought gold necklaces, went to bars in bangkok. even went to bars in Pattaya (near walking street), No problems. You mind your business, nobody f***s with ya. Was a great experience. Scheduled a 2nd trip March of 2021, but got cancelled due to the pandemic. Will go again in Jan 2022. Who knows maybe my stories will change.
Safer than the US
Pickpockets are pretty fervent, nonetheless Thailand is safer than many other countries there on the map (including the USA) for sure.
Don't do anything on a trip which you wouldn't do at home
My travel advice to anyone is: Don’t do anything on a trip which you wouldn’t do at home. I mean it.
Like what would you think of a man approaching you on the streets of NYC trying to sell tailormade suits? Right, you’d politely get out of the situation (in case the guy could be armed).
Would you ride a rental motorbike without a helmet and wearing shorts and flip flops in downtown L.A.? So if you wouldn’t – don’t do it in Phuket.
Would you help out a woman you spent only one night with in Chicago and lend her 5k bucks? No, then don’t do it in Bangkok.
It’s as easy as that and you will be totally fine during your trip.
People in Thailand are just like anywhere else so don’t fall for the feeling that everything is so easy going there in the tropical heat.
The land of smiles because they grin like winner when they sell you something at twice the local going rate.
I had a great time
The good:
Probably one of the most beautiful and special countries in the world! You have so much to see and admire in Thailand!
The people are generally very friendly, helpful and hospitable! They might offer to help you if you are having car problems or any type of problem.
Even though many tourists are visiting this country it still has managed to keep its identity and its culture unchanged. This is a huge plus as you can experience the true Thai culture with its great history.
Prices are generally quite decent, and in some areas even low compared to many other countries. You can generally afford a longer vacation in certain cities from Thailand than you would in other countries. Look for good deals on known sites online or if you’re more adventurous, find accommodations on the go while in Thailand.
The bad:
Double pricing scams. As soon as locals (some of them, not all of course) see that you are a tourist they will offer you prices that are higher than normal just because you are a tourist. At first you might not realize this as you don’t know the prices.
Pickpockets can be seen if you take a closer look. This doesn’t mean they are everywhere or that you should be afraid. Just stay vigilant and don’t make yourself an easy target. Keep money and important belongings close-by and pay attention and you’ll be fine.
Taxis can sometimes try to overcharge you. Always ask for the price BEFORE going on the ride and you can avoid problems.
Traffic rules are a bit different so be very careful if you ride a motorbike here. Familiarize yourself with the rules, go slow and pay attention.
Muggings can happen but aren’t frequent. Just do a bit of research on which areas are to be avoided in each town you go to.
🙏🏿
Thailand is generally very safe. Because the people here are mostly religious. And in most cases there is almost no murder in Thailand. This is due to their religious belief that killing people is a sin, which is a plus.
I stayed in Bangkok for 3 months and have never been double charged, robbed, or in general anything bad. For taxis take grab and the price is set or even better the BTS is cheap, clean and easy to use.
Racist
Most racist country I’ve ever been to in my life. This place is full of scammers and the people have a shit attitude. They only see foreigners as ATMs. It’s very dangerous and not welcoming.
good