Australia cautions travellers to Thailand following bomb attacks
Multiple bombings at the popular seaside resort of Hua Hin.
The Australian government has warned visitors to Thailand to avoid the area of Hua Hin on Thailand's Gulf coast after two bombs were exploded, killing and injuring tourists.
Local police say the bombs were hidden in pot plants spaced 50m apart and were detonated by mobile phones within half an hour of each other, the ABC reported.
A female Thai food vendor has died and several others were injured as a result of the attacks.
Among those wounded in the explosions were Dutch, German, Austrian and Italian tourists. One individual's nationality remains unknown, but it is believed no Australians were hurt in the blasts.
The bombings occurred ahead of celebrations honouring Queen Sirikit's birthday.
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade's (DFAT) Smartraveller website says travellers should avoid the area and follow the advice of local authorities.
While the government's level of advice has not changed, Australian travellers are urged to continue to exercise heightened caution across Thailand.
"We advise you to exercise a high degree of caution in Thailand due to the possibility of civil unrest and the threat of terrorist attack, including in Bangkok and Phuket. You should pay close attention to your personal security at all times and where possible monitor the local media, including social media, for information about possible new safety or security risks."
If you have family or friends travelling in Thailand, DFAT suggests you attempt to make direct contact with them. If you're unable to reach them and hold concerns for their safety, you can call the 24-hour consular emergency centre on 1300 555 135 or +61 2 6261 3305 (if calling from overseas).
In March this year, DFAT updated its travel advisory to Thailand in the wake of the spread of the Zika virus.
If you're considering visiting a country against official government advice, find out whether or not your travel insurance covers the destination and compare the best cover options before booking your next trip to Thailand.
Picture: Shutterstock
- Route Finder: Adelaide-Hobart, Los Angeles-Beijing, New York-Lagos
- This week’s bargain phones: Grab an S8+ for less before the Note 8 hits
- The Block 2017 recap (22.08.2017): The good, the bad and the shockingly devious
- Sale: Up to 55% off Virgin Australia flights
- Vodafone NBN pricing: everything you need to know
