Australian tourists in Thailand told to be cautious

[thanhnt]

Australian travellers caught up in Thailand's political protests are not in danger provided they stay away from the demonstrations, Australian Foreign Minister Stephen Smith said.

The protests had caused delays and frustration to Australian travellers in Phuket, about 20,000 of whom were visiting the tourist resort at any one time, Minister Smith was quoted by the “Age” as saying on August 31.

However, no Australians were believed to be in danger at this stage, he added.

The Australian Foreign Affairs Department estimates about 300 Australians have been directly affected by anti-government protests in Thailand that have forced the closure of three airports in the country's south, including the popular holiday destination of Phuket. –Enditem