A powerful earthquake struck Myanmar in late March, with tremors felt in Thailand, Laos and even China. Find out if it's safe to travel to the region now, what governments around the world are advising, and what safety rules to follow when traveling

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A few days ago, a 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck near Mandalay in Myanmar, with tremors felt as far away as Thailand and China. European governments have updated their travel advisories for tourists in the region. As of April 1, 2025, travelers planning to visit Thailand and Myanmar should be aware of the latest developments, possible restrictions, and rules of conduct, so we are telling you.

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Earthquake in Myanmar March 28, 2025

On March 28, at noon local time, a 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar, causing powerful tremors that were felt as far away as Thailand, China, Laos, and Bangladesh.

As a result of this earthquake, a skyscraper in Bangkok collapsed, killing 17 people and leaving 78 people missing under the rubble.

The epicenter of the earthquake was near the city of Mandalay in Myanmar, at a shallow depth of only 10 kilometers, causing the collapse of dozens of buildings. According to Myanmar state media, the death toll exceeded 2,000 people and more than 3,900 were injured.

Is it safe to travel to Thailand due to the earthquake in Myanmar?

In Bangkok, hundreds of locals and tourists were evacuated from high-rise buildings and hotels as a result of the earthquake. The capital's authorities received 169 reports of damage to buildings, and the city was declared a "natural disaster zone." There were also reports of water leaking from swimming pools in various parts of the city.

The most serious tragedy was the collapse of a multi-story building that was under construction. Rescuers reported that seven people were found alive, but 78 people are still missing.

The Bangkok metro and city rail system were temporarily closed after the earthquake, but were back online on Saturday (March 29).

Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport was briefly closed, but has since reopened, with flights operating as normal. Thailand’s other major airports were not affected.

Thai authorities are reassuring tourists that it is still safe to travel to the country. Travel, hotels and events are operating as normal. Security inspections are ongoing. Tourist police are monitoring key locations. However, local authorities are urging citizens to avoid high-rise buildings, which are common in densely populated areas of Bangkok.

Which countries have updated their travel advisories for Thailand following the earthquake?

Many countries have updated their travel advice for Thailand:

- United Kingdom

The UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) advises those in the area or planning to travel to follow the advice of local authorities and their tour operator, and to monitor local media reports closely.

In addition, the FCDO continues to advise against all but essential travel to the southern parts of Thailand near the border with Malaysia. This includes the provinces of Pattani, Yala, Narathiwat and southern Songkhla, which lie south of the A43 road between Hat Yai and Sak, and south of the railway line between Hat Yai and Padang Besar. However, this is not related to the earthquake.

The FCDO also advises against all but essential travel on the Hat Yai-Padang Besar route, which passes through these provinces, due to regular attacks in these areas near the Malaysian border.

- Ireland

The Irish Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) has upgraded the security status for Thailand to a “high degree of caution.” Citizens are urged to follow the instructions of local authorities in the event of an emergency.

Is it safe to travel to Myanmar due to the earthquake?

Myanmar authorities have declared a state of emergency in six regions and states in the country following the earthquake.

The FCDO has also issued updated travel advice for Myanmar, noting that the epicenter of the earthquake was in Sagaing Region near Mandalay, but other areas may also be affected.

Mandalay and Naypyitaw airports have sustained significant damage and there is currently no information on when they will reopen. There may be more strong aftershocks.

If you are in the area or planning a trip, follow the advice of local authorities and monitor media reports.

The U.S. Department of State recommends reconsidering travel to Myanmar due to civil unrest and the possibility of arbitrary enforcement of local laws

Does travel insurance cover travelers to Thailand?

Travel insurance may be invalidated if you travel contrary to the advice of your country's government. This applies to visits to areas that are advised not to travel unless the trip is essential.

As no country has yet issued a travel advisory for Thailand or other earthquake-affected areas, you will not be automatically entitled to compensation if you cancel your trip due to "not wanting to travel".

You will only be entitled to compensation if:

- Your flight is cancelled by the airline

- Your accommodation is closed due to the effects of the earthquake.

If you are travelling to Thailand in the next few days, please contact your airline or tour operator first. Some areas of the country may be declared unsafe for travel, in which case airlines may cancel flights.

In the event of cancellation, passengers are usually allowed to change their booking, but you may not be entitled to additional compensation.

Recommendations for tourists traveling to Myanmar and Thailand

To protect yourself when traveling to the region, follow these tips:

- Stay informed

Regularly check reliable news sources and official government websites for updates.

- Be cautious

Be aware of your personal safety, especially in areas affected by the earthquake.

- Communicate with suppliers

Confirm travel arrangements and insurance coverage with airlines, tour operators, and insurance companies.

- Follow local advice

Follow local government guidelines and respect any restrictions.

While Thailand’s major tourist destinations, including Bangkok, are operating and safe to visit, Myanmar is currently facing significant challenges that may affect travel plans. It is important to stay informed and make informed decisions based on the latest information before planning a trip to the region.

When planning a trip abroad, be sure to take care of a travel insurance policy that will protect you from unforeseen situations during your trip and compensate for unplanned expenses - for medical treatment, in case of lost luggage, flight cancellation, etc.

Buy a reliable travel insurance policy from trusted insurance agents on the Visit World portal!

Reminder! Thailand is simplifying travel with the full implementation of the electronic visa system in January 2025. From now on, you can apply for a permit from anywhere and at any time to experience a faster and smoother entry process. We have already told you who can visit the kingdom under the simplified migration system and what is the procedure for obtaining an entry permit.

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