Australian holidaymakers planning trips to Southeast Asia may need to rethink their itineraries as tensions between Thailand and Cambodia escalate, potentially disrupting travel routes and safety conditions.
Border Tensions Flare Up
Recent clashes along the disputed Thailand-Cambodia border have raised concerns for travellers in the region. The long-standing territorial conflict has seen renewed military activity, with both sides accusing the other of provocation.
Impact on Tourism
The popular tourist crossing at Poipet-Aranyaprathet, a key land border between the two nations, could become affected if tensions continue to rise. Many Australian backpackers use this route when travelling between Bangkok and Siem Reap (home of Angkor Wat).
Government Advice
The Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade has updated its travel advice, recommending that travellers:
- Monitor local media for developments
- Avoid protest areas and military installations
- Have contingency plans for border crossings
- Register travel plans with Smartraveller
Alternative Routes
Travel experts suggest Australians consider:
- Flying directly between Bangkok and Siem Reap instead of overland routes
- Exploring alternative border crossings if tensions persist
- Considering travel insurance that covers political unrest
Tour operators report that while most itineraries remain unaffected, they're monitoring the situation closely. "We haven't cancelled any tours yet," said one Bangkok-based operator, "but we're preparing alternative arrangements just in case."
The conflict centres on a 11th-century Hindu temple complex that both nations claim. Previous flare-ups in 2008 and 2011 led to temporary border closures and tourist evacuations.
