The Department of State has canceled the May 27, 2010, Travel Warning for Thailand due to improvements in safety and security conditions throughout the country. The Thai government ended the nightly curfew May 29, 2010. On July 6, 2010, the Thai Government renewed the emergency decree powers in 19 provinces but ended the emergency decree powers in 5 provinces. On July 20, 2010, the Thai Government ended the emergency decree powers in 3 additional provinces, Lampang, Roi Et, and Sakon Nahkon.

This message reminds U.S. citizens that emergency decree powers remain in effect in the following provinces:

* Bangkok metropolitan area
* Ayutthaya
* Chaiyaphum
* Chiang Mai
* Chiang Rai
* Chon Buri
* Khon Kaen
* Maha Sarakham
* Mukdahan
* Nakhon Ratchasima
* Non Bua Lamphu
* Nonthaburi
* Pathum Thani
* Samut Prakan
* Ubon Ratchathani
* Udon Thani

Emergency decree powers give the police and military increased powers to maintain public order. Specifically, security forces have the authority to:

* prohibit gatherings of more than five people;
* prohibit distribution of media or publications deemed to affect security or public order;
* prohibit or limit the use of vehicles or particular routes; and
* evacuate buildings or areas or prohibit entry into them.

You might encounter security forces personnel at roadblocks or other security checkpoints. If you do, you should obey all instructions from them. Be sure to carry identification and proof of your U.S. citizenship at all times to present if asked by authorities.

There have been numerous incidents of explosive attacks, including several isolated grenade and arson attacks, in and around Bangkok and Chiang Mai over the past three months. Additional explosive devices were discovered before detonation. Some of these incidents occurred at or near areas frequented by U.S. citizens. These incidents appear to be motivated by domestic politics and do not appear to be acts of international terrorism. More such attacks are likely to occur.

You should exercise caution and vigilance at all times. Immediately report to law enforcement or security personnel any unattended packages or bags or suspicious objects in public areas.

Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly escalate into violence with little or no warning. You should avoid areas that may be targeted for demonstrations and exercise caution if within the vicinity of any demonstrations or large gatherings. You should monitor local media to keep updated with the latest information of demonstrations and areas to avoid.

The Department strongly encourages U.S. citizens in Thailand to register with the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Bangkok or through the State Department's travel registration website.

For information on general crime and security issues, U.S. citizens may also consult the Department of State's Country Specific Information for Thailand and the Worldwide Caution, located at the Department of State's Bureau of Consular Affairs website . U.S. citizens may also obtain up-to-date information on security conditions by calling 1-888-407-4747 from the United States and Canada, or 202-501-4444 from overseas.

The American Citizen Services section of the U.S. Embassy Bangkok is located at 95 Wireless Road, Bangkok 10330, Thailand. The American Citizen Services Unit of the U.S. Embassy can be reached by calling 66-2-205-4049 and by e-mail at acsbkk@state.gov. The emergency after-hours telephone number is 66-2 205-4000.

The U.S. Consulate General in Chiang Mai is located at 387 Wichayanond Road in Chiang Mai. The American Citizen Services Unit of the Consulate General can be reached by calling 66-53-107-777 and by e mail at acschn@state.gov. The after-hours emergency telephone number is 66-81-881-1878.

Source: eturbonews.com