Canadian travel trends are evolving. The major airlines in Canada are paying attention. Take Air Canada as an example. They received a standing ovation from their customers for recognizing these trends and expanding into popular destinations like Italy. Canadians are now shifting their focus, moving away from the U.S. and choosing Europe instead.
Canadians are, in fact, still visiting Thailand, but the numbers have been reduced. In June 2025, 142,372 Canadians arrived in Thailand. The number certainly isn’t anything to scoff at, but it’s lower than past numbers.
What has contributed to the decrease?
Perhaps some of the “Avoid all Travel” advisories have caused uncertainty among Canadians.
Here’s a closer look at yet another advisory issued to Thailand. This is an “Avoid all Travel” warning, but in truth, Canadian tourists should not be overly concerned about it, given the location is outside the “hotspot zones” that Thailand has to offer.
Canadians Shouldn’t Panic Over The Government Of Canada’s Recent “Avoid All Travel” Warning To Thailand
Canadians continue to visit Thailand, but the numbers have decreased compared to years past. There are several reasons for the downturn. Among them was a new digital arrival card system that went into effect on May 1st. Upon arrival, Canadians are required to complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card. That’s certainly not a deal-breaker, but linking that with safety risks due to rising political tension, Thailand has become somewhat of a threat to sure guests.
The overall risk level is currently at an “Exercise a high degree of caution” warning, issued by the Canadian government. The warning is in place due to ongoing political tension and demonstrations in Bangkok and elsewhere. Travelers are asked to avoid protests at all costs.
In recent days, a new advisory has been issued, asking Canadians to “Avoid All Travel” to a section of Thailand. Although the warning sounds intimidating, it should not be too concerning for those that plan on visiting Thailand’s touristic areas.
The Big Seated Buddha Statue (Buddha Dhammakaya Dhepmongkol) at Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen (temple) in Bangkok, Thailand
The new warning in place deals with the Thailand and Cambodia border.
Travelers are being told to:
“Avoid all travel to the area within 20 kilometres of the Thailand-Cambodia border due to ongoing conflict in the region.”
Ongoing border disputes are ongoing between Thailand and Cambodia. The tension has increased since late May, resulting in multiple casualties. As of July 25th, Thai authorities announced martial law in several districts near the Cambodian border.
Curfews and restrictions may arise in several areas. Martial law is in effect for the following areas: Mueang Chanthaburi, Tha Mai, Makham, Laem Sing, Kaeng Hang Maew, Na Yai Am, Khao Khitchakut, and Khao Saming.
Although the advisory is severe, it should not impact most travelers who keep a healthy distance from the Cambodian border during travel to Thailand.
Thailand Has Other “Avoid All Travel” Areas Canadians Need To Avoid During Stays
Along with the Cambodian border, there are other areas completely off limits for travelers. Once again, rarely are Canadians spotted in these locations during vacations.
The southern provinces include:
- Narathiwat
- Pattani
- Songkhla
- Yala
These provinces are viewed as unpredictable, as violent attacks have randomly taken place. Eastern provinces have also been placed on the “Avoid non-essential travel list” by the Canadian government. Ongoing conflict is continuous in these areas. They include the provinces of Buriram, Si Saket, Surin, and Ubon Ratchathani.
These advisories are key to follow, though the risk level is low for the average traveler visiting Thailand. Nonetheless, even for those visiting hot spots in the country, there are several advisories to keep in mind.
Petty Crime Is Also On The List Of Warnings For Travel To Thailand
Even in touristic hot spots, travelers must proceed with caution. Petty crimes do exist, such as purse snatching, theft and pickpocketing.
The government of Canada writes, “Ensure that your personal belongings, including your passport and travel documents, are secure at all times, especially in tourist areas, crowded markets and bus or train stations.”
The advisory continues by warning travelers about petty crime also potentially taking place at night entertainment areas.
“Be careful at night in entertainment areas throughout the country, including in Koh Pha Ngan and Koh Tao, particularly during full moon parties, Songkran, and other events in popular tourist locations.”
The advisory continues, “Robberies and assaults (including sexual assaults) can occur during these events. Passport thefts and losses are common.”
Phuket Thailand summer remote worker
Overall, Thailand remains a popular destination for Canadian and American tourists. Although the number of foreign arrivals slightly decreased in the first half of 2025, Thailand still saw over 16.61 million foreign arrivals, an impressive figure, even if it reflects a 4.56% decrease.
On a positive note, Indonesia and Malaysia are showing encouraging signs of growth. However, it remains to be seen whether Thailand can boost its overall tourism numbers back to the levels seen before the pandemic.
Be sure to let us know your thoughts on traveling to Thailand. What was your experience like? Has Thailand changed in recent years? Chime in down below.
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