The recent bombing at the Erawan Shrine in Bangkok, Thailand has prompted 23 countries to issue a travel advisory for its citizens.
Austria, Belgium, Denmark, France, Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, South Korea, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan and the United States have issued a "Level 2" advisory, while other nations, such as Australia, Canada, China, Germany, Italy, Ireland, New Zealand, Russia and the United Kingdom have issued "Level 3," according to Bangkok Post.
Hong Kong, on the other hand, has given a "Level 4" advisory and has been on red alert since the bombing Monday. The attacks were said to target tourists and foreigners, as the perpetrators targeted the biggest shopping center and hotel district in the city.
"It was a TNT bomb... the people who did it targeted foreigners and to damage tourism and the economy," said Prawit Wongsuwong, Thailand's defense minister, according to Coconuts Bangkok.
If you're touring the area or have plans to be in the city in the next few days, here are some precautions you have to take note of:
U.S. Citizens are encouraged to enlist in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program or STEP with the state department so that your presence in Bangkok will be known to the U.S. embassy.
"U.S. citizens without Internet access may enroll directly with the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. By enrolling, you make it easier for the U.S. embassy or consulate to contact you in case of an emergency," announced the U.S. Embassy.
Follow the agency's Facebook and Twitter accounts to keep tabs of the latest ongoing and advisories.
The Foreign Office in the U.K. issued a terrorism alert even before the bombings, according to the Independent. Those currently in Bangkok will have to expect heightened security at all transport terminals, including bus stations around the city. British citizens have been advised to stay alert and follow updates from the Foreign Office on Twitter.
"The British Embassy is in contact with local authorities. You should monitor news reports, follow the advice of local authorities and take extra care," the agency said in its statement, according to Daily Mail.
Australians in Thailand, on the other hand, have been advised "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. The security situation remains volatile. 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," according to the country's Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
If possible, citizens are asked not to travel to some areas in Thailand for the time being. "We strongly advise you not to travel at this time to the southern provinces of Yala, Pattani, Narathiwat and Songkhla or overland to and from the Malaysian border through these provinces due to high levels of ongoing violence in these areas, including terrorist attacks and bombings that result in deaths and injuries on an almost daily basis."
Meanwhile, Canada has also advised its citizens to "exercise a high degree of caution" in Thailand. "Maintain a high level of personal security awareness at all times. Be aware that any public statement that is perceived to be critical of the political situation in Thailand, the National Council for Peace and Order, the Royal Thai Army, or the Monarchy could lead to detention," its embassy stated.
Other foreigners should check with their agency for any advisories on travel to Bangkok.
