Foreign Office relaxes Thai travel warning

Published on Saturday 29 May 2010 20:26

THE Foreign Office has relaxed its travel advice for Britons planning to visit Thailand but warned visitors to continue to exercise caution in the capital, Bangkok.

Political violence saw dozens of people killed in the city earlier this month after anti-government "Red Shirt" protesters occupied an the business district.

A military crackdown ended the occupation ten days ago and Thailand's prime minister lifted a nighttime curfew in Bangkok and other areas yesterday, saying that order has been restored after a violent confrontation with anti-government protesters.

Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva said a state of emergency would remain in force until it was safe to lift it.

He said he would not rule out an election before the end of his government's term late next year, though it would be "difficult" this year.

A Foreign Office spokesman said: "We are now advising travellers to exercise caution if travelling to Bangkok or Chiang Mai. This replaces the previous advice, which advised against all but essential travel to Bangkok and Chiang Mai."