New Foreign Office alert for holiday hotspot '24-hour alcohol ban' this week, February 7, 2026
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has issued new advice for anyone heading to a popular holiday destination this week. In an update on Wednesday, the FCDO has alerted Brits to restrictions in Thailand affecting the whole country.A popular destination for holidaymakers and backpackers, the country is holding a General Election later this week. While travellers might not think that a problem, anyone looking for an alcoholic drink might be surprised.The FCDO said: "Thailand will hold a General Election on 8 February 2026. A nationwide ban on the sale and distribution of alcohol will be in place from 6pm on 7 February until 6pm on 8 February."During this period public consumption of alcohol is prohibited, including at social gatherings. The restrictions apply to convenience stores, bars, restaurants, and entertainment venues, both public and private. If you do not comply with these restrictions, you could face fines of up to 10,000 baht (around £230) and up to six months’ imprisonment."Areas to avoidThe FCDO is also advising against all but essential travel to various parts of the country, notably border areas. Firstly, the FCDO advises against all but essential travel to parts of the south, near the Thailand-Malaysia border. This covers Pattani Province, Yala Province, Narathiwat Province and the districts of Chana, Thepa, Na Thawi and Saba Yoi in southern Songkhla Province.The FCDO also advises against all but essential travel on the Hat Yai to Padang Besar train line that runs through these provinces. This is due to regular attacks in the provinces by the border with Malaysia. Travel is also not advised to within 20km of the land border with Cambodia.The FCDO said: "In July 2025, Thailand and Cambodia fought along parts of the border. The fighting included the use of rocket and artillery fire. Tensions remain and fighting erupted again at various points along the border in early December. Land borders and crossings between Thailand and Cambodia continue to be suspended."Some tourist destinations in border areas such as the Khao Phra Wihan/Preah Vihear temple, the Ta Kwai/Ta Krabey temple and the Ta Muen Thom/Tamone Thom temple are closed. There are also unexploded landmines in the border area. We advise against all travel to the affected land border areas."The FCDO also warned Brits about taking cannabis out of Thailand, saying: "British nationals have been caught carrying cannabis out of Thailand. There have been arrests of British nationals caught transiting through airports in other countries. Many international airports have excellent technology and security for detecting illegal items, which may be used to scan the baggage of transiting passengers."
