Published on October 14, 2025
Koh Chang, Thailand’s third-largest island, has become the center of a travel advisory issued by the UK government, discouraging tourism to the Trat Province due to the declaration of martial law. This warning has raised concerns for the island’s tourism industry, with the local community and tourism authorities calling for the martial law declaration to be lifted. While Koh Chang has long been regarded as a peaceful beach resort, the UK’s advisory now raises questions about the future of the island’s tourism, which is a significant part of the local economy.
The martial law declaration in the Trat province has been in place since 2012, but its impact has been minimal until the recent UK travel warning. The advisory advises British nationals to avoid traveling within 50 kilometers of the Cambodian border, which includes Koh Chang. This has caused a decrease in visitor numbers and worries about insurance coverage for tourists in the area.
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Impact of Martial Law on Koh Chang and Nearby Islands
The UK’s warning has had a significant effect on tourism in Trat, specifically the island of Koh Chang. This island is widely known for its lush rainforests, peaceful beaches, and its status as part of the Mu Ko national park. The island, a favorite for travelers seeking a laid-back beach resort experience, has seen a drop in bookings, particularly from British tourists, due to the recent travel advisory.
In response to this, the Trat office of the Thailand Tourist Authority (TAT) has reassured travelers that the situation in the region is not comparable to conflict zones. It emphasized that the martial law is not actively enforced in Koh Chang or the surrounding islands, and that there is no ongoing violence in the area. Koh Chang, along with Koh Kood and Koh Mak, continues to be a safe and popular destination, attracting tourists on a daily basis.
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The UK advisory is mainly based on the concern over the potential impact on insurance coverage. Insurance companies may not cover claims if tourists are involved in incidents in areas under martial law, leading to further concerns for travelers planning to visit Koh Chang.
Understanding Thailand’s Martial Law: Civil vs. Military Control
The declaration of martial law in Thailand has long been associated with the country’s military coups. However, the current martial law in Trat is considered civil martial law, which is a policy agreed upon by the government and enforced by the army in certain areas. The term “martial law” can be alarming to many travelers, especially those from Europe, who associate it with military-led unrest. However, Thailand’s civil martial law is distinct and largely aimed at maintaining order and security in the region, rather than an indication of active conflict.
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The UK’s stricter stance on martial law is in contrast to other European countries, which have not issued similar warnings for beach resorts or popular tourist spots. The UK government’s travel advice for Koh Chang and other areas in Trat might be more stringent than necessary, considering the safety and ongoing tourism in the region.
The Future of Koh Chang’s Tourism: A Resilient Destination
Despite the challenges posed by the UK’s travel advisory, Koh Chang remains a top-tier tourist destination, known for its pristine beaches, eco-tourism, and laid-back vibe. While the UK’s advisory may have dampened enthusiasm for some travelers, the island’s resilience in attracting tourists from other parts of the world, including Asia and Europe, shows its enduring popularity.
The Trat Province tourism office is optimistic about the future of the island’s tourism sector. In light of the advisory, local businesses are focusing on diversified markets, including local tourists and those from Southeast Asia, while the Thai government continues to monitor the situation and work with international travel agencies to maintain the appeal of the island.
Key Takeaways for Tourists and Travelers
- Be Aware of Travel Advisories: If you’re a British tourist, ensure you are aware of the latest travel advisories and how they may affect your insurance coverage. Check with your travel insurance provider before booking.
- Explore Other Islands: If you are concerned about the travel restrictions in Koh Chang, consider visiting nearby islands like Koh Kood or Koh Mak, which remain unaffected by the travel advisory.
- Check Insurance Policies: Many insurance companies may not cover incidents in martial law areas, so it is crucial to confirm your policy covers all eventualities in Thailand.
- Alternative Entry: If Koh Chang is part of your travel plans, consider flying into Bangkok or Phuket and traveling by land to the island to avoid the areas under the red alert zone.
- Support Local Economy: Many local businesses in Trat are still operational, and your visit could help support the community. Spend time enjoying the natural beauty of Koh Chang and the Mu Ko National Park.
Impact on Business and Tourism Travel
For business travelers, the recent advisory may disrupt travel to Thailand, especially for those with connections to the tourism industry. However, there remains strong potential for businesses to succeed in areas outside the immediate reach of the travel warning. For leisure tourists, those seeking a peaceful and less crowded destination might still find Koh Chang to be an ideal spot for a relaxed beach holiday.
The current situation calls for flexible travel plans and up-to-date information, particularly for those flying into Thailand or planning to visit popular destinations. While the travel advisory may cause some concerns, it’s important to stay informed and take appropriate action when planning your trip.
Key Points to Remember
- UK Travel Advisory: The UK government advises against traveling within 50 kilometers of the Cambodian border, including Koh Chang and parts of Trat.
- Martial Law: Civil martial law is in place, with no active conflict but potential disruptions to travel due to roadblocks and local restrictions.
- Tourism Impact: Koh Chang and nearby islands remain safe for tourists, but travelers should confirm their insurance coverage due to the martial law status.
- Nearby Islands: Koh Kood and Koh Mak are unaffected by the advisory and offer alternative travel options.
- Travel Flexibility: Stay updated on travel advisories and consult with airlines and travel agents for potential route changes.
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