UK Foreign Office issues new travel warning for popular holiday destination

The UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has issued updated travel advice for British heading to Laos, highlighting security and weather-related risks. Travellers are being urged to exercise "extreme caution" in the Bokeo Province, where authorities have reported an increase in military checkpoints following ongoing tensions along the Laos-Thailand border. The also advises against all but essential travel to Xaisomboun Province due to intermittent attacks on infrastructure and armed clashes with anti-government groups.

Another update was provided following entering its annual monsoon season, which runs from May to October and coincides with the broader typhoon season in Southeast Asia. This period brings a heightened risk of landslides, river flooding, and flash floods, especially in mountainous and low-lying zones.

The FCDO wrote: "There are ongoing clashes between the Lao army and unidentified armed groups on the Laos-Thailand border in Bokeo province (Northwest Laos).

"Local officials have requested raised security levels, these will include an increase in military checkpoints and troop numbers. Consider any travel plans to the province carefully."

The FCDO also warned of 'small-scale clashes' at the border: "There have been small-scale clashes between anti-government groups and government troops in isolated areas along the Laos-Thailand border. The local law enforcement agencies have limited capability to counter these threats.

"Be extremely cautious in Bokeo Province, particularly near the borders with Myanmar and Thailand, and around the Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone. Armed groups carry out employment scams and drug trafficking in this area."

The monsoon season in Laos usually runs from May to October, bringing heavy rainfall, potential flooding in the Mekong River basin, and increased risk of landslides, particularly in mountainous areas.

The FCDO stated: "Landmines and other unexploded weapons are a hazard throughout Laos and kill a number of people each year. Keep to main routes in rural areas, and do not pick up metal objects. This risk is higher after flash floods or landslides during the monsoon season."

Tropical storms may intensify and become more frequent, raising the risk of flash floods, fallen trees and damage to infrastructure, with possible exposure to unexploded ordnance (UXO) in landslide zones.

Travel during this period is often delayed, with poor road conditions, longer journey times, and limited phone signal. The FCDO said to stay informed by checking updates from the Mekong River Commission and local weather reports.